The Metadata is the Message

Explore a thought-provoking conference talk on the significance of metadata in digital communications and its legal implications. Delve into the complexities of internet architecture, data collection, and privacy concerns. Examine the historical context of communication systems, legal frameworks, and the evolution of metadata's role in modern technology. Gain insights into the technical aspects of internet protocols, email systems, and web communications. Analyze the challenges in distinguishing between content and metadata in various digital platforms. Consider the implications of metadata collection for privacy, law enforcement, and civil liberties in the digital age.

Intro
The Metadata is the Message and sometimes The Message is the Metadata
Content versus Metadata
The Internet: Technically, it's Not exactly like the Phone System
US Legal Basics
The Fourth Amendment (1789)
Are Wiretaps "Searches"?
Pen Registers?
Are Pen Registers Searches?
Communications Systems (1948) The Mathematical Theory of Communication
A Communication System (-1970)
An observation
A Communication System (–1920)
Legality of Data Collection
What is Metadata on the Internet?
The Internet: Layered Architecture
Third Parties?
Architectural Content
Link Layer Addresses
IP Addresses
TCP Port Numbers
Signaling
Sending Email
Email (Simplified)
Two Sets of Addresses
The Web and URLs
URL Complexities
When is Location Sent?
Voice over IP
Conclusions
Our Paper