EU asks US to explain data surveillance

16062013

 European Union has asked the US to come clarify allegations that US intelligence agencies’ data surveillance systems may have violated Europeans’ privacy. EU’s action follows revelations that the US National Security Agency collects personal email messages and phone records from major IT and telecom companies as part of the fight against terrorism. Viviane Reding, the EU vice president and justice commissioner, met US Attorney General Eric Holder in Dublin and asked him to clarify the allegations.

After the meeting, Reding said to reporters that she was told by Holder that the NSA goes through due process at the Justice Department to collect personal data on foreigners suspected of involvement in terrorism.She said the EU and US agreed on calling a meeting with US experts in collection of information and protection of privacy.  Media agencies