What must be given to the subscriber by law enforcement prior to obtaining contents?

The requirement for law enforcement to provide prior notice to the subscriber before obtaining the contents of their communications is rooted in legal protections surrounding privacy and due process. This notification serves to inform the subscriber that their communications are being accessed, allowing them an opportunity to understand the situation and, if desired, challenge the action through legal means.

This concept is anchored in laws such as the Electronic Communications Privacy Act (ECPA), which is designed to protect individuals' privacy rights when using electronic communications. By giving prior notice, law enforcement ensures that subscribers are aware of the retrieval of their data, which is a key aspect of maintaining transparency and respecting civil liberties.

Other options, such as a search warrant or court approval, pertain to the process of obtaining authorization to access the contents, but they do not inherently include the obligation to notify the subscriber beforehand. Similarly, affidavit submission may be involved in obtaining authorization, but it does not equate to the requirement for prior notice to the individual whose information is being sought.