What does an "A" certification allow an individual to do?

An "A" certification is significant because it grants an individual the authority to monitor hardwired communications as well as conduct non-consensual intercepts. This level of certification indicates that the individual has completed the necessary training and understands the legal and technical aspects of wiretapping laws, protocols, and ethical considerations involved in monitoring communications without the consent of involved parties when legally warranted.

The ability to carry out non-consensual intercepts is particularly crucial in law enforcement and certain investigative contexts, where obtaining consent may not be feasible or where it may compromise ongoing operations. This distinguishes the "A" certification from lesser certifications, which may limit activities to consensual intercepts, digital data analysis, or specific types of operations. While monitoring digital data or engaging in undercover operations are valuable skills and functions within law enforcement and investigative work, they do not fall under the scope of what the "A" certification specifically authorizes.