Legal Question in Technology Law in Georgia

Internet/Email Privacy

I am 19 years old, and live with my parents while I attend college.

I have recently found out that my step father has installed tracking software on my computer and has been reading my conversations and emails, as well as watching all websites I have visited, without my knowledge, and without informing my mother. He recently printed and highlighted several of my coversations and emails with the intent of showing them to my family because he disagreed with sentiments that I expressed (particularly relating to my religious beliefs).

Although I recognize that the internet remains somewhat of a legal gray area, and I have no specific intent to persue legal action, I am interested in being aware of my (or my step-father's) legal rights on this topic, particularly considering I am still living in their house.

Thank you for any insight, I have had a surprisingly difficult time finding specific information about my rights in this case.


Asked on 9/12/05, 9:24 am

2 Answers from Attorneys
David Anderson Anderson Business Law LLC

Re: Internet/Email Privacy

First, unless you are the CUSTOMER paying for the ISP account, you are not entitled to privacy under the TOS with the ISP.

I would check on setting up an ISP with secure password protected e-mail and acct with your school.

Otherwise, a dial up account through one of the cheap services, and use your own PC or laptop with security installed.For research check with the Electronic Freedom Foundation, and also go to Google and do a search with, the terms:

privacy liability intrusion violation and your should get a ton of helpful stuff.

If it was me I would have an attorney send him a letter ordering him to Cease and Desist upon penalty of law.

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Answered on 9/12/05, 9:58 am
Charles Aspinwall Charles S. Aspinwall, J.D., LLC

Re: Internet/Email Privacy

Check out this website. Deliberate interception of another's electronic communications is illegal under defined circumstances.

http://legal.web.aol.com/resources/legislation/ecpa.html

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Answered on 9/12/05, 10:07 am


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