FBI eyes Internet wiretaps

Federal Bureau of Investigation Director Robert Mueller suggested to lawmakers that the agency is weighing “some form of legislation” that could require Internet service providers and other companies to ensure their systems are compatible with federal wiretap orders.

Mueller made his remarks in response to a question by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Patrick Leahy (D-VT) at an agency oversight hearing. Chairman Leahy cited recent reports suggesting the FBI desires a way to “require Internet service providers and other online services to make their [services] amenable to government surveillance,” but told Mueller that “the Administration has not sent any up here.” Mueller said lawmakers could expect recommendations on revising the law in question soon — but he also criticized recent press reports for a “distortion of what our needs are.”