[brown9-2]

In this case, and using these definitions, it appears no "interception" happens because there is not a computer or human listening to the actual phone calls. Verizon is sending the call "metadata".

[chris_mahan]

per the definition given above: "to "intercept" means that a computer or human actually listens to or records calls." if a computer records a call, it's intercepted, no?

[EthanHeilman]

Verizon is sending them call metadata not actual calls.

[foobarqux]

That would be the logical interpretation but it is not the interpretation being used by the government.

[brown9-2]

are you referring to what the Wired article stated?