No it's not ok, and most people are horrified when they learn. It's just a reality check that we've lived in a surveillance state for quite a while and it's time we take a stand. And a reminder that the government has done a good job of suppressing these realities from public awareness.
> and it's time we take a stand
I'm afraid it is too late.
Not saying that, but at least that there must have been ample legal precedent that this is probably allowed.