Federal Court Rules FBI's Warrantless Data Searches Unconstitutional

The landmark decision challenges the FBI's use of NSA databases and raises questions about the future of Section 702 surveillance practices.

A federal court has ruled that the FBI's warrantless searches of NSA databases under Section 702 of FISA violate the Fourth Amendment.
The case stems from a decade-long legal battle involving Agron Hasbajrami, who was arrested in 2011 for allegedly attempting to join a terrorist group.
Judge LaShann DeArcy Hall found that the FBI’s searches circumvent constitutional protections, calling them an 'end-run' around the Fourth Amendment.
The ruling does not overturn Hasbajrami’s conviction, as the court deemed the FBI acted in 'good faith' under its interpretation of the law at the time.
The decision is expected to influence upcoming congressional debates over the renewal and reform of Section 702, set to expire in April 2026.