SORM

SORM (Russian: Система Оперативно-Розыскных Мероприятий, literally "System for Operative Investigative Activities") is the technical specification for lawful interception interfaces of telecommunications and telephone networks operating in Russia. The current form of the specification enables the targeted surveillance of both telephone and Internet communications. In broad sense the term "SORM" means any system for electronic surveillance. A Russian law passed in 1995 allowed FSB to access the surveillance data. Later access has been widened to other law enforcement agencies.

SORM-1 system has been established in 1996 to monitor telephone communications.

In July 1998 the system was replaced by SORM‑2 to allow monitoring of the internet, in addition to telephone communications. Under SORM‑2, Russian Internet service providers (ISPs) must install a special device on their servers to allow the FSB to track all credit card transactions, e-mail messages and web use. The device must be installed at the ISP's expense. It has been estimated to cost $10,000-$30,000. Other reports note that some ISPs have had to install direct communications lines to the FSB and that costs for implementing the required changes were in excess of $100,000.

On July 25, 2000, Russia's Minister of Information Technology and Communications Leonid Reiman issued the order No 130 "Concerning the introduction of technical means ensuring investigative activity (SORM) in phone, mobile and wireless communication and radio paging networks" stating that the FSB was no longer required to provide telecommunications and Internet companies documentation on targets of interest prior to accessing information.

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