Final answer:
The Privacy Act restricts U.S. Government agencies from releasing individual information but allows exceptions for national security, law enforcement needs, and other public interest scenarios when authorized by law or court orders.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Privacy Act stipulates conditions under which U.S. Government agencies can legally release information they have acquired about individuals. In general, it's illegal for these agencies to disclose personal data without consent. Exceptions to this rule exist, particularly concerning matters of national security, law enforcement investigations, or other significant public interests.
For instance, if there is probable cause, the government must obtain a warrant from a judge to access digital information. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) also outlines specific exemptions related to trade secrets, national defense, personnel privacy, and more, which allow for the withholding of certain data from public disclosure. The balancing act between individual privacy rights and government interest is a constant debate, often mediated by the judiciary to determine the legality of information requests and disclosures.