Legal Definitions - Trap and trace device

A trap and trace device is a tool used by law enforcement to record the sources of incoming signals to a specific phone or computer. It is like a more advanced version of Caller ID. The device identifies the phone numbers or Internet addresses of incoming signals, but does not include any substantive information transmitted by those signals.

For example, if the police suspect that a person is involved in criminal activity, they may use a trap and trace device to monitor the phone calls or internet activity of that person. The device will record the phone numbers or internet addresses of incoming signals, which can help the police identify potential suspects or gather evidence.

Another example is if a person is receiving harassing phone calls or messages, they can ask their phone company to install a trap and trace device on their phone line. This will help the phone company and the police identify the source of the calls or messages.