Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA)
The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000, or RIPA as it is commonly known, governs the use of covert surveillance by public bodies.
Its aim is to provide the correct balance between protecting an individual's rights to privacy and the proper use of data and surveillance to help carry out evidence gathering.
RIPA provides an authorisation process for covert surveillance and information gathering which includes:
- bugs
- video surveillance
- interceptions of private communications (for example phone calls and emails)
- undercover agents (covert human intelligence sources)
This can only take place where this is necessary and proportionate for the purpose of preventing or detecting crime or preventing disorders.
Our RIPA Policy (PDF) [347KB] details how we exercise its powers and fulfil it's responsibilities under the legislation.
For further information please email foiandcomplaints@stockton.gov.uk.
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