Unlocking the Latest Changes in the UK’s Investigatory Powers: What You Need to Know

The UK government has just rolled out another crucial update to its investigatory powers legislation. As of June 20, 2025, two key provisions from the Investigatory Powers (Amendment) Act 2024 will officially take effect, thanks to the new Commencement No. 3 Regulations 2025. Here’s a breakdown of what this means for you.

What’s Changing?

1. Review of Notices by the Secretary of State (Section 18):

   • This provision empowers the Secretary of State to review notices related to investigatory powers. Essentially, it’s about ensuring that the use of such powers is being properly overseen and that any notices issued are appropriate and justified.

2. Notification of Proposed Changes to Telecommunications Services (Section 21):

   • This section mandates that telecommunications companies must notify the government of any planned changes to their services. This could involve modifications that might affect how investigatory powers are applied or how data is accessed and stored.

Why It Matters

These updates are part of a broader effort to fine-tune the UK’s approach to surveillance and data management, balancing national security needs with privacy concerns. By enabling the Secretary of State to review notices and requiring telecoms to report changes, the government aims to ensure a tighter grip on how investigatory powers are used.

Background

These are the final pieces of the 2024 Amendment Act puzzle. Previous provisions were put into motion as early as October 2024, focusing on various aspects of investigatory powers, including the initial set-up and partial implementation of other sections.

Impact?

Interestingly, the government doesn’t foresee any significant impact on the private, voluntary, or public sectors from these latest changes. This suggests that the new provisions are more about internal checks and compliance rather than imposing new burdens on businesses or individuals.

In Summary

As these changes take effect, the UK continues to navigate the complex terrain of privacy, security, and technology. Whether you're a tech company, a legal expert, or simply a citizen concerned about privacy, staying informed about these legislative updates is crucial. Keep an eye out for how these changes might influence the digital landscape in the coming months.