Originally Posted by
danielflyer
I’m also not a lawyer but since ATC is already a public frequency, is there an expectation of privacy? I’m not arguing with you on legality. Most laws on the topic are centered around recording of private conversations which ATC communications probably are not. I’m curious if there have been any court cases on the matter.
Yup. It's illegal to just generally listen in. Off the top of my head, the Wireless Telegraphy Act. You can only listen in, if you have a direct interest in doing so, such as piloting an aircraft in that area.
An expert in the field can clarify/correct.
Given that scanners themselves are legal, it's virtually impossible to police it - Unless you're stupid enough to admit you've done it on twitter