Introduction
In the dynamic realm of social media, user safety is paramount. At Snap, we are unwavering in our commitment to safeguarding Snapchatters from any misuse of our platform. This commitment extends to our collaboration with law enforcement and governmental agencies to ensure the safety and security of our community.
Our Collaboration with Law Enforcement
Snap recognizes the vital role law enforcement plays in maintaining a secure online environment. We actively cooperate with law enforcement agencies while respecting the privacy and rights of our users. This collaboration is governed by a set of operational guidelines to ensure transparency, legality, and adherence to privacy requirements.
U.S. Legal Process
Being a U.S. company, Snap requires U.S. law enforcement agencies to follow U.S. law when seeking the disclosure of Snapchat account records. The Stored Communications Act (SCA) guides our ability to disclose account records, compelling us to respond only to specific types of legal processes such as subpoenas, court orders, and search warrants.
Non-U.S. Legal Process
For non-U.S. law enforcement, the process involves relying on Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT) or letters rogatory processes to request Snapchat account records. We extend courtesy to non-U.S. law enforcement by reviewing and responding to properly submitted preservation requests while the MLAT or letters rogatory process is underway.
Snap may, at its discretion, provide limited Snapchat account records to non-U.S. law enforcement agencies in response to duly authorized legal processes. This includes information such as basic subscriber details and IP data.
Emergency Disclosure Requests
In critical situations where an emergency poses a threat of imminent death or serious bodily injury, Snap has the capacity to voluntarily disclose Snapchat account records. This is done in accordance with relevant legal provisions, and information on how law enforcement can submit Emergency Disclosure Requests is available in our Law Enforcement Guide.
Data Retention and Preservation
Snap adheres to strict data retention policies outlined in our Support Site. Preservation requests from law enforcement are honored, with Snap attempting to preserve Snapchat account records associated with properly identified users for specified periods. This includes extending preservation for additional periods with formal extension requests.
As a courtesy to non-U.S. law enforcement, Snap may preserve available Snapchat account records for up to a year during the MLAT or letters rogatory process. Extensions are considered at Snap's discretion.
Child Safety Concerns
Snap takes a proactive approach to potential child exploitation content on our platform. Our Trust & Safety team reviews allegations and, if warranted, reports situations to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), facilitating coordination with global law enforcement agencies.
User Consent and Notice Policy
Snap does not disclose user data solely based on user consent. User notice is our policy, with exceptions in cases where prohibited by court orders or in exceptional circ*mstances involving child exploitation, sale of lethal drugs, or threats of imminent harm.
Testimony and Submission of Requests
Records disclosures to U.S. law enforcement are accompanied by a signed Certificate of Authenticity. While Snap cannot provide expert witness testimony or testimony outside the U.S., law enforcement officials can submit requests through our Law Enforcement Service Site (LESS) portal or via email at lawenforcement@snapchat.com.
For detailed information on how to submit requests and accurately locate Snapchat accounts, please refer to Section IV of our Law Enforcement Guide.
Conclusion
Snap remains committed to fostering a safe online environment and collaborating with law enforcement to achieve this goal. Our operational guidelines, adherence to legal processes, and commitment to user privacy collectively reinforce Snap's dedication to maintaining the highest standards of safety on our platform.
