Abstract
This article examines the implications of selected aspects of the Telecommunications (Interception and Access) Amendment (Data Retention) Act 2015, which was passed by the Australian Parliament in March 2015. It shows how the new law has strengthened protections for privacy. However, focusing on the investigatory implications, it shows how the law provides a tactical advantage to investigators who pursue whistleblowers and investigative journalists. The article exposes an apparent discrepancy in the way ‘journalist’ is defined across different pieces of legislation. It argues that although legislators’ interest has been overwhelmingly focused on communications data, the explosion of data generated by the so-called Internet-of-Things (IoT) is as important or more. It shows how the sensors in selected IoT devices lead to a loss of user control and will enable non-stop, involuntary and ubiquitous monitoring of individuals. It suggests that the law will need to be amended further once legislators and investigators’ knowledge of the potential of IoT increases.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Australian Journal of Telecommunications and the Digital Economy
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
