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Big Tech Hinders Crucial Crime Investigations
19 Dec
Summary
- Social media platforms often delay or reject warrants for criminal cases.
- Investigations into fentanyl deaths and child exploitation are hampered.
- Tech companies cite technicalities, delaying vital evidence access for police.
US law enforcement officers allege that major technology companies like Meta and Snapchat frequently delay or reject warrants essential for criminal investigations. These delays, sometimes due to minor grammatical technicalities, can significantly impede investigations into crimes ranging from fatal fentanyl overdoses to child sexual exploitation.
Incidents highlighted include the case of Max Osterman, who died from fentanyl poisoning, where his mother noted Snapchat's delayed and uncooperative response to law enforcement requests for dealer information. Reports from four cases reviewed by The Guardian show Meta and Snap delaying or declining compliance with warrants and subpoenas, affecting eight law enforcement interviews confirming a wider issue.
While Meta and Snap state they cooperate with law enforcement, police express frustration over slow responses and a lack of direct communication channels. The delays can allow suspects to evade capture and prolong investigations, raising concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of current legal frameworks governing data access.
