ANTI-TERROR powers are being used to spy on people in St Albans, it has been revealed today.
Both St Albans District Council and Hertfordshire County Council have admitted that they are using the controversial Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act to snoop on residents.
It follows a Freedom of Information Act request into how many councils across the country are using the legislation since it was introduced in 2000.
The act allows councils to intercept communications and use covert spying techniques for reasons including national security, protecting public health and economical well-being.
But many who have been spied upon will have no idea as the innocent have no right to know.
Josie Judge, spokesperson for Hertfordshire County Council, said: "The RIPA powers ensure that when we carry out investigations we do so properly.
"We operate within the required sanctions and we are externally audited to ensure that we are abiding by all rules."
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