Yes, taking or improperly accessing someone’s military records without their consent is generally unlawful. Unauthorized access to military or VA medical records is a serious Privacy Act violation, a potential HIPAA violation, and can even be considered a federal crime depending on the circumstances. [1, 2]

Understanding the legalities and proper procedures for records involves the following key details:

• Privacy Laws: The Privacy Act of 1974 restricts federal agencies from disclosing personally identifiable information, including military records, without the written consent of the service member. [1]
• Criminal Penalties: Stealing, destroying, or intentionally mishandling official government documents—such as a veteran’s Official Military Personnel File (OMPF)—is a federal offense. [1, 2]
• Public Availability: If you are not the veteran or their next-of-kin, the National Personnel Records Center (NPRC) will only release very limited, publicly releasable information. [1]
• Medical Records: Improperly viewing or taking a veteran’s VA medical records is treated with severe professional and legal consequences. [1]

To legally request a veteran’s full military records, you must submit a Standard Form 180 (SF-180) to the NPRC. If you are not the veteran or the immediate next-of-kin, you will need the service member’s written consent. [1, 2]

If you can tell me why you need the records (e.g., family history research, legal proceedings, or benefit claims) and your relationship to the service member, I can help you determine the proper and legal channels to request them.