Tech groups gear up for FISA surveillance fight

A controversial provision in U.S. law that gives the National Security Agency broad authority to spy on people overseas expires at the end of the year, and six major tech trade groups are gearing up for a fight over an extension.

Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act expires on Dec. 31, and Congress almost certain to extend it in some form. 

The tech trade groups, including BSA, the Consumer Technology Association, and the Computer and Communications Industry Association, are asking lawmakers to build in new privacy protections for internet users. 

“It is critical that Congress takes a balanced yet focused approach with respect to Section 702,” the groups said in a letter sent to top lawmakers Wednesday. “We urge your committees to ensure that any reauthorization includes meaningful safeguards for internet users’ privacy and civil liberties.”

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