CALEA (Communication Assistance for Law Enforcement Act) applies to which type of entities?

CALEA, or the Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act, is primarily aimed at telecommunications carriers and companies. The law was enacted to ensure that law enforcement agencies are able to conduct electronic surveillance, as required by law, when investigating crimes. By specifying telecommunications carriers, CALEA mandates that these companies provide the necessary capabilities for law enforcement agencies to access communication data in a manner that is consistent with privacy protections and legal standards.

While internet service providers may also have obligations under related regulations, CALEA specifically targets telecommunications entities, as these businesses manage the infrastructure and services through which traditional telephony services, including voice communication and, in many cases, data services, are delivered. Thus, the correct answer aligns with the primary focus of CALEA, ensuring that law enforcement can effectively perform their duties while respecting legal requirements.