The FBI and other law enforcement agencies will be able
to search multiple computers across the country with a single warrant
thanks to a controversial rule change that takes effect on Thursday.
The expanded search power, known as “Rule 41,”
is intended to make it easier for the FBI to carry out complex computer
investigations. Until now, the government could only carry out a search
of computers located in the district where the federal judge granted
the warrant—typically only a few counties in a given state.
The legal process for government hacking has been a contentious
topic, especially in light of a high profile investigation known as “Playpen”
in which the FBI placed tracking software on the computers of child
pornography suspects across the country. Some of these defendants have
successfully challenged their arrest on the grounds they lived outside
of the area described in the warrant.
Civil liberties groups have warned
Rule 41 represents a dangerous expansion of the government’s
surveillance power, and will lead law enforcement bodies to “forum
shop”—seeking warrants in districts where a judge is most likely to
grant them.
