The controversy arose last year, when newly formed tea-party and other conservative groups that had applied for tax-exempt status began receiving letters from the IRS asking them to disclose their donors and other information that typically isn't requested.

WSJ: IRS Apologizes for Scrutiny of Conservative Groups

The controversy arose in early 2012, when reports began to surface that newly formed tea-party and other conservative groups that had applied for tax-exempt status were receiving letters from the IRS asking for disclosure of their donors and other information that typically isn't requested of groups making such applications.

WSJ: IRS Apologizes for Scrutiny of Conservative Groups

The EPA first requested the information from Halliburton and seven other energy companies as part of a study into health and safety effects of fracking.

FORBES: EPA Subpoenas Halliburton for Fracking Data

However, if the copyright owner does issue a lawful subpoena or other lawful process that seeks information about your identity or account, Verizon will be legally required to provide the requested information to the copyright owner.

FORBES: Verizon Has Already Started Warning Pirates