Recording
18 Pa.C.S. 5703 — all parties consent, or a third degree felony
In Pennsylvania, intentionally intercepting a wire, electronic or oral communication, or intentionally disclosing or using the contents of one knowing it was intercepted, is a felony of the third degree, except as the chapter provides otherwise.
The consent exception needs every party. A person may intercept a wire, electronic or oral communication where all parties to it have given prior consent.
An oral communication, for this chapter, is one uttered by a person who expects it is not subject to interception, in circumstances that justify the expectation. A conversation without that expectation is not an oral communication under the chapter.
A felony of the third degree is punishable by up to seven years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000. The chapter's many other exceptions, for law enforcement and others, are not set out here.
Sources for this section (5)
- 18 Pa.C.S. 5703 — Interception, disclosure or use of wire, electronic or oral communications
- 18 Pa.C.S. 5704 — Exceptions to prohibition of interception and disclosure of communications
- 18 Pa.C.S. 5702 — Definitions for wiretapping and electronic surveillance
- 18 Pa.C.S. 1103 — Sentence of imprisonment for felony
- 18 Pa.C.S. 1101 — Fines
Legal information, not legal advice. Verified as of September 2026. Applying it to a particular situation is the work of a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.