British Cops Hack Into Government Computers

CmdrGravy writes "The British Police have hacked into Government computers as part of the on-going 'cash for peerages' investigation. They've uncovered evidence which has, so far, led to one arrest and charge of perverting the course of justice for a leading Labour party figure. This charge carries a potential life sentence. The British police have the power to hack into computer systems as part of an investigation. On previous occasions they have said they did not believe the government was providing them with the information they had been asking for and had warned that they would seek other methods to gather evidence. The police won't say what tools they have used. From the article: 'The investigators did not have to notify No 10 if they were "hacking" into its system. One legal expert said: "In some cases, a senior officer can give permission. In other cases, you might need the authorization of an independent commissioner, who is usually a retired judge appointed by the Home Office."'"

Comments

lol

[xiong.chiamiov]

So now it's the government hacking into itself, not just /.ers...

Re:What's wrong with the UK?

[Seraphim1982]

Who was it cracked Enigma without a computer again? The Poles did. What does that have to do with this discussion?

Re:What's wrong with the UK?

[permaculture]

You may be right.

Another valid explanation might be social engineering. A senior police officer and a senior civil servant probably met at their old Oxford college for a drinky-poo.

"Have you heard this awful nonsense about the 'cash for peerages' evidence? Old Chigwell just isn't playing the game at all. It's a dreadful bore."

"Oh I wouldn't worry about that old fellow. Have a whisky.
I'm sure we can work something out."

Much like an episode of "Yes, Minister". :)