Nowadays, the internet and mobile devices have penetrated every aspect of our lives. This has greatly changed the way we communicate. We share large amounts of information and data every day through phone calls, emails, instant messaging platforms and social media. This intense communication traffic makes the concept of confidentiality of communication more important.
What is the Confidentiality of Communication?
Privacy of communication refers to the right of individuals to protect their private and confidential communications from third parties through illegal means. This right is regulated in Article 132 of the Turkish Penal Code (TCK) as the “Crime of Violating the Confidentiality of Communication Between Individuals”.
Elements of the Crime:
Violation of communication between individuals: Phone calls, emails, messages, etc. Covers types of communication.
Intentional violation of privacy: The perpetrator must commit this action knowingly and willingly.
Illegality: It is against the law to listen to, record or read a person’s communication without his/her consent.
Punishment:
Basic form: Imprisonment from one to three years
Qualified case: If the content of the communication is recorded, the penalty is increased by one.
Ways of Committing the Crime:
wiretapping
Email and message hacking
Use of spyware
Access to social media accounts
Examples:
Checking your spouse’s phone without permission
Reading an employee’s work emails
Using a neighbor’s internet connection without permission
Suggestions for Protecting the Confidentiality of Communications:
Use strong passwords.
Avoid sharing your personal information on public platforms.
Use antivirus and firewall software.
Store your information encrypted.
Avoid clicking on links that look suspicious.
Make sure the devices and software you use are up to date.
