Internet History

[BigDenny]

I'm a 16 year old teenager intesrested in law enforcement and I was just going through my e-mail the other idea when I noticed something. Do BI's go into your e-mail account and read your e-mails? I don't have anything to hide but I do have some awkward (neither illegal nor unethical) correspondence that I'm not too excited about having a stranger read. I did delete them, but I'm pretty sure they can still acess them. Also, does law enforcement even do a check of your internet history before age 18? And, if yes, how far back does it go? And I know this is stupid, but will they be reading my text messages and e-mail chat messages?

[Kimble]

As I told you in a PM you sent me asking the same thing about a week ago, you give your BI full access, to include looking at your online activities as appropriate. I do think, however, you're being a bit paranoid. Live your life by being law abiding, wondering if someone is watching every step you make (so long as you're not breaking the law) is no way to go through life.

[BigDenny]

Kimble: Thanks, by the way, for taking the time to answer all of my PMs. You gave some great advice and I really appreciate it. I started this thread specifically in reference to local law enforcement (I'm considering working 4-5 years in a local agency until I make detective, then going federal). I just want to cover all my bases, make sure that I really am making a mountain out of a molehill. I've just heard horror stories about guys who didn't even get into a good college because they posted something stupid on facebook.

[pac201]

Don't over think it, and as Kimble said-live your life by being law abiding...no worries mate.

[Rlong1985]

I think United States v. Warshak dealt with electric privacy.....I could be wrong.

[BigDenny]

Yeah, I probably am overthinking it. Thanks guys, I really appreciate the help and reassurance.

[Kimble]

I think United States v. Warshak dealt with electric privacy.....I could be wrong.

A court ruling like that deals with everyday dealings of electronic privacy, but is a mute point when a police applicant voluntarily signs a waiver for background investigators to pull information that is previously protected/private (this includes HIPPA information too).

[Rlong1985]

Good point Kimble, I thought courts had paved the way for the investigators already with the Warshak ruling but the waiver is to allow ultimate access.

I experienced a little bit of this on one of my investigations when the BI asked me my personal interests and had several of my hobbies and interests already on a list; she had searched my email address and screen name on the internet before the interview.