The Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Act (CALEA) is a U.S. law enacted in 1994 that requires telecommunications companies and internet service providers to design their systems so they can assist law enforcement agencies in carrying out authorized electronic surveillance, such as wiretaps. CALEA ensures that, when presented with a court order, service providers can provide access to communications or call records in a way that preserves privacy for users not under investigation. The law aims to balance public safety needs with privacy rights by setting clear procedures for lawful interception while prohibiting unauthorized access.