Explanatory Notes

Electronic Communications Act 2000

2000 CHAPTER 7

25 May 2000

Commentary on Sections

Part I Cryptography Service Providers

Section 4:  Restrictions on disclosure of information

36.This section protects certain information obtained under Part I, sets out the purposes for which it may be disclosed (e.g. in order to carry out the approvals functions, for a criminal investigation or for those civil proceedings specified in subsection (2)(e)) and makes improper disclosure a criminal offence. It safeguards individual privacy and commercially confidential information, except where disclosure is justifiable.

37.There is no restriction on who may make the disclosure or to whom it may be made, provided that the purpose is proper.