FBI used NSA tactics; copied all inboxes of webmail service

The FBI seized the entire e-mail database of TorMail, an anonymous underground webmail service, as collateral evidence while investigating a separate incident relating to child pornography held by Freedom Hosting, the service provider that also hosted the e-mail’s server.

News of this quietly broke wind when a man was indicted last week through evidence obtained using a search warrant that grant access to the Bureau’s own copy of “data and information from the TorMail e-mail server, including the content of TorMail e-mail accounts,” according to court papers.

The data remained in the FBI’s possession since September, suggesting the organization collects and retains bulk data until given the proper authority to access it through warrants, similar to the NSA. Having the entire server duplicated makes it easy to frame context in manner persuasive for obtaining a warrant, giving the FB unlimited investigative power toward all users of TorMail.

TorMail is reputed as an ideal email provider for those seeking anonymity and access to encrypted websites and services. Unfortunately, services of this nature are often associated with the deep web and the host of illegal activities that go on there, ranging from illegal drug markets such as the now defunct Silk Road, to underground hacker groups. There’s no denying that there’s a criminal element associated with the e-mail, making the catch especially hefty in the FBI’s mind.

TorMail was previously considered the most reputable, anonymous e-mail provider

However, users of the service also include human rights groups, journalists, whistleblowers or anyone seeking to minimize their digital footprint or protect their identity. It’s through anonymous e-mail services that people from countries with heavy web censorship, such as China or Iran, can access international content in the first place. TorMail was a tool, and like any tool, it be used for good as well as for evil; tagging a known user as “a person of interest,” similar to the supposed Communist during McCarthy’s day is akin to being guilty by association.

TorMail was not the first anonymous e-mail provider hit by an FBI raid. Earlier last year, a court order forced the encrypted e-mail provider LavaBit to turn over its master encryption. The FBI stated it was interested in only one target, but the key would have granted access to all 400,000 users. Instead of complying, LavaBit opted to shut its service down and appeal the order.

Story via Wired