4. The universal service operator shall ensure adequate connections to the terminal points of its network, regardless of whether or not the terminal equipment of the subscriber is the property of the users. Section 18 Communications secrecy The secrecy of communications transmitted through the public telecommunications networks is guaranteed, except in cases contemplated by law on matters of criminal investigation and national security. Section 19 Protecting competition 1. The universal service operator shall ensure the use of its network by operators and providers of telecommunications and broadcasting services in equal conditions of competition. 2. The use of circuits hired from the universal service operator shall be restricted to the user or to the provision of the telecommunications services for which the user is authorised. Section 20 Consumer rights 1. Consumers have the right to use public telecommunications services with the service quality as required by the applicable legal and regulatory provisions. 2. In drafting applicable regulations, the Government shall promote consultation with representative consumer organisations, as a way of protecting user rights. Section 21 Prohibited telecommunications 1. Telecommunications that involve disregard for the laws or undermine the state security, public order or social mores are prohibited. 2. Included in the preceding subsection is the use of the national access code. 3. In addition to the provisions of the preceding subsections and in order to safeguard state security and national defence interests, the import, supply and use of cryptologic devices are barred.