Official - Secrets

Review: 'Official Secrets' Amps The Drama, Or Tries To - NPR

The OSA (primarily the 1911 and 1989 Acts) criminalizes the disclosure of sensitive categories, including defense, international relations, and security. Historically, the 1911 Act was so broad it theoretically covered even the most "innocuous" government information. Official Secrets

Lacking a single broad "Official Secrets Act," the U.S. instead uses the Espionage Act of 1917 . This law prohibits the communication of "national defense" information to unauthorized persons, regardless of whether they are foreign spies or domestic journalists. Review: 'Official Secrets' Amps The Drama, Or Tries

The application of these laws often creates tension between state security and the public's right to know. Review: 'Official Secrets' Amps The Drama