Russian Mail Privacy?

[Baron Max]

Published: 7/22/09, 12:45 PM EDT
By KARINA IOFFEE

MOSCOW (AP) - The Russian government has issued an order telling postal workers that police and security agents have a right to open mail, causing alarm among rights advocates who fear a return to the Soviet-era tactics of the KGB.

(snip)

But rights advocates said the order is unconstitutional because it does not mention the need for court permission. The document, filling two pages in small print, explains in detail to postal workers that investigators have access to the mail and postal data bases, and can demand a separate work space within post offices.

Critics said the new order is dangerous because it has the potential to further embolden Russia's security services, who have grown increasingly powerful under Vladimir Putin, the former president who is now prime minister.

(snip)

Viktor Parshutkin, a lawyer specializing in criminal law, said the order was a clear violation of the constitution. Security agents often are unable to present the evidence necessary to get a court order, he said, suggesting that some may prefer to try to skirt the law.

(snip)

Copyright 2009 Associated Press. All rights reserved.

***

Reminds me of the "private messages" here at sciforums! The moderators can read anything that you write. And worse, they can use that as evidence against you in their efforts to have you banned. Neat, huh? Sciforums, Russian oppression, sorta' like two peas in a pod, huh? ...LOL!

Baron Max

[breeze]

rather funny that i get russian news from this forum. :D

[otheadp]

If the Russian cops won't get your mail, then it's the fucking thieves who WORK for the Russian mail service. Any Russian knows, if you want to send something valuable, send it in person with a friend. Never EVER send it through the mail, or even UPS (because UPS in Russia is also operated by Russians). Otherwise you'll lose it forever.

[draqon]

I fully support this initiative.

[superstring01]

I fully support this initiative.

Yes. Of course you do.

If Russia had a policy that all women were required to provide their left eye, you'd support it too because you're a mindless sycophant with absolutely zero intellectual ability to evaluate the situation fairly. The only thing that matters is that you support the actions of Russia.

Would that you could only see the stupidity and pure ignorance this represents in you.

~String

[Asguard]

barron "remove the stake through your own eye before worrying about splinters in the eyes of others" The US goverment can demand to know what libary books you have borrowed, can tap anyones phone without a warrent, can access emails and other forms of electronic communication without a warrent ect.

[Baron Max]

barron "remove the stake through your own eye before worrying about splinters in the eyes of others" The US goverment can demand to know what libary books you have borrowed, can tap anyones phone without a warrent, can access emails and other forms of electronic communication without a warrent ect.

No, they can't do any of that without a warrant. There have been some instances of "illegal" wiretapping, but remember, until it's proven in a court of law, then they're innocent of any wrongdoing.

But that's okay, Asguard, I understand your frustrations. I was terribly frustrated when the moderators of SciForums accessed my "private" messages here at the site! I figure "private" meant private, ya' know? But, hell, I got banned for what I said in "private" messages! See? I know firsthand how the Russians might feel about this issue.

Baron Max