trap and trace device

A trap and trace device is a device or process that records the sources of incoming signals to a specific phone or computer. This is often used by law enforcement as the advanced counterpart of Caller ID. A trap and trace device identifies the phone numbers or Internet addresses of incoming signals, but does not include substantive information transmitted by those signals.

Compare to: Pen register

See also:

• 18 U.S. Code Chapter 119 - Wire and electronic Communications Interception and Interception of Oral Communications
• 18 U.S. Code Chapter 206 - Pen Registers and Trap and Trace Devices
  • 18 U.S. Code § 3121 - General prohibition, exceptions, and limitations on the use of pen registers and trap and trace devices .
  • 18 U.S. Code § 3122 - Outlines the application for an order for a pen register or a trap and trace device.
  • 18 U.S. Code § 3123 - Provides the issuance of an order for a pen register or a trap and trace device.
  • 18 U.S. Code § 3124 - Regarding assistance in installation and use of a pen register or a trap and trace device.
  • 18 U.S. Code § 3125 - Emergency pen register and trap and trace device installation.
  • 18 U.S. Code § 3126 - Reports concerning pen registers and trap and trace devices.

[Last reviewed in June of 2024 by the Wex Definitions Team ]

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