Why have MOST European countries developed specific legislation that permits police and security services to...

 The European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR) protects the right to privacy, which includes the security of personal data and protection against surveillance1. This right is not absolute and can be limited under certain conditions, such as for the protection of national security or public safety. Most European countries have developed specific legislation that allows police and security services to monitor communications traffic, but this must be done within the boundaries set by the ECHR and subsequent legislation like the GDPR. The GDPR itself does not override the ECHR but complements it by providing detailed regulations on the processing of personal data, including provisions for law enforcement authorities to process data for criminal investigations in a way that respects fundamental rights23.

References: The BCS Foundation Certificate in Information Security Management Principles emphasizes the importance of understanding legal frameworks like the ECHR and GDPR that impact information security management. These frameworks guide the development of policies and procedures to ensure that the monitoring of communications by law enforcement is conducted lawfully and respects individuals’ right to privacy45. Additionally, the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 in the UK, for example, sets out the legal authority for police to intercept communications, ensuring compliance with the ECHR6.