Scottish Parliament election results
Results of the Scottish Parliament Election held on 7 May 2026.
Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act
The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA) controls and regulates surveillance and other means of information gathering which we use when observing people without them knowing when we're carrying out certain duties.
Some of our services may need to observe people without them knowing when we're carrying out certain duties. This activity is covered by the Regulation of Investigatory Powers (Scotland) Act 2000 (RIP(S)A).
RIP(S)A governs the use of:
- directed surveillance
- covert human intelligence sources
- intrusive surveillance (which we're not allowed to carry out)
These are important tools for gathering information which can help us to:
- prevent or detect crime or prevent disorder
- act in the interests of public safety
- protect public health
Authorisation
RIP(S)A provides the legal framework for authorising our covert investigation activities. We have policies and procedures in place.
Authorisation of the use of covert human intelligence source policy
Authorisation of covert surveillance policy
Our arrangements are independently monitored and inspected for the Investigatory Powers Commissioner's Office.
We follow the Scottish Government's RIP(S)A codes of practice and maintain a register showing where authorisation has been granted.
Complaints
You can complain to the Investigatory Powers Tribunal if you are aggrieved at any of our activities under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers (Scotland) Act 2000.