Why was the Patriot Act controversial?

It collected private information, such as phone calls and emails, from citizens without their knowledge in order to combat terrorism. While some supported the act, others felt the government was invading their privacy.

It was controversial because it created a breach in civil rights and privacy of citizens

Explanation:

The patriot Act was an act signed into law by President Bush in 2006. the act enabled Federal Agents to use wiretapping techniques, obtaining bank details of suspected terrorists through bank orders and also the using of delayed notification of search or arrest warrant to track down suspected terrorists or terrorist organization in America.

It is simply the use of expanded methods been used to track down drug dealers and organized crime organizations for the purpose of improving homeland security against terrorist activities. it was controversial in the sense that it posed a threat of breaching privacy and civil rights of citizens.