The simple cabling equipment the NSA allegedly deployed to monitor phone calls and Internet use

June 10, 2013
As was explained in a recently published article, tapping into a data stream can be accomplished easily and invisibly.

With recent news stories accusing the National Security Agency (NSA) of collecting massive amounts of data on Americans’ phone calls and Internet use, many professionals in the cabling industry probably are not as stunned as their fellow citizens about the agency’s ability to collect such information.

The act of tapping a communications line is easily accomplished and, in nearly all cases, invisible to the everyday user of a phone or Internet connection.

An article we recently published titled “Tapping: It’s not just for phones anymore,” may turn out to be quite prescient. It explains how data center managers can use taps, or optical splitters, to monitor traffic for the purpose of identifying network-performance issues such as bottlenecks. In light of current NSA headlines, it’s easy to see how this technology can be used for other purposes.

Read the article Tapping: It’s not just for phones anymore, from our March 2013 issue.

Sponsored Recommendations

400G in the Data Center

Aug. 3, 2022
WHATS NEXT FOR THE DATA CENTER: 400G and Beyond

Power up your system integration with Pulse Power - the game-changing power delivery system

May 10, 2023
Pulse Power is a novel power delivery system that allows System Integrators to safely provide significant power, over long distances, to remote equipment. It is a Class 4 power...

The Agile and Efficient Digital Building

May 9, 2023
This ebook explores how intelligent building solutions can help businesses improve network infrastructure management and optimize data center operations in enterprise buildings...

Revolutionize Your Network with Propel Fiber Modules

Oct. 24, 2023
Propel Fiber Modules are your gateway to the future of connectivity.