Legal and Regulatory Structure Prevailing in the UK related to Data Privacy and Public Surveillance

Over the years, the Internet has changed from a system essentially concerned with providing data, to a channel for communication and social cohesion (Fuchs et al.,2013). Criminals go fastidious to hide illegal activities, which is why surveillance is essential for the purpose of investigation. By carrying out surveillance, detectives can discover proof required to substantiate legal suit, or imprison a lawbreaker. This paper uses the IRAC method to explain the prevailing legal and regulatory structures in the EU and UK with respect to social media surveillance. It also gives an in-depth analysis of the rights of a person or citizen to social media privacy. It outlines the dangers of social media surveillance by authorities, and demonstrate different case laws and rulings regarding violations of citizens’ right of privacy by different authorities.