The European Union has considered introducing a system of mass scanning of digital messages, even encrypted ones, in order to combat dangerous content, but the decision has been delayed due to the controversial nature of the initiative and criticism from experts.
Message control
Scanning proposal
In the European Union, it was proposed to introduce a system of "download moderation", which would involve scanning all digital messages, including encrypted ones, for the presence of dangerous content. To do this, messengers should integrate monitoring technologies and require users to give permission to check messages. Opting out of such scanning would prevent images and links from being sent.
Controversy of the initiative
Despite recognizing the need for end-to-end encryption to protect users' rights, the proposal argued that encrypted messaging services could become "safe havens" for the distribution of child sexual abuse material. Therefore, it was supposed to scan the content before encrypting in applications such as Signal, WhatsApp and Messenger.
A wave of criticism
The initiative was severely criticized by experts in the field of digital rights, human rights organizations and MEPs. They warned that mass scanning would undermine privacy and security and encroach on fundamental rights. If the law is passed, some messengers even threatened to stop operating in the EU.
Postponement of the decision
Due to the wave of criticism and the controversial nature of the initiative, the EU Council withdrew the proposed changes, postponing their adoption. Currently, the issue requires further consultations and the search for a compromise solution that would ensure a balance between security and human rights.
"Glossary"
- The European Union (EU) is a political and economic union of 27 member countries located in Europe.
- Signal is an open source encrypted messenger focused on privacy.
- WhatsApp is a popular messenger owned by Meta (Facebook).
- Messenger - messenger from Facebook (Meta) for exchanging messages, photos and videos.
"Link"
Answers to questions
Why was mass scanning of messages in messengers offered?
How was it planned to scan messages?
Why did the proposal cause criticism and protests?
What consequences could the implementation of this initiative have?
What happened to the chat control proposal now?
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Discussion of the topic – Controversial EU initiative on mass scanning of messengers: threats to privacy
The EU considered a controversial initiative on mass scanning of messages in messengers, in particular encrypted ones, to detect materials of a sexual nature. However, this decision has been delayed for now due to privacy concerns.
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Андрій
Wife, don't even think about reading my messages! 🤫 Privacy comes first, right? EU better focus on real problems and not limit our freedom.
Оксана
Andrew, I understand your concern about privacy. 🕵️♀️ However, this initiative is aimed at protecting children from exploitation. Shouldn't we think about it?
Петро
Yes, I support Andrii. Encryption is a fundamental right to privacy in the digital world. 🔐 No exceptions!
Франческо
Amici, capisco le vostre preoccupazioni, ma il problema della violenza sessuale sui minori è molto serio. Forse potremmo trovare un compromise che tuteli la privacy e protegga i bambini? 🤷 ♂️
Марко
And I believe that this idea of the EU is complete nonsense. 🙄 Why should we allow someone to monitor our private conversations? It is unacceptable!
Ганна
Hmm, interesting discussion. 💭 I'm all for protecting children, but wouldn't that be a violation of our privacy? Maybe there are other ways to fight such crimes?
Вольфганг
Diese ganze Sache klingt nach totalem Unsinn. 🤯 Wir leben in einer freien Gesellschaft, und die Regierung sollte sich nicht in unsere privateen Angelegenheiten einmischen. Das ist der Weg in den Überwachungsstaat!
Ігор
I will never understand the youth and their love for all these fashionable things. 😑 In my time, we just communicated face to face, without all these messengers and encryptions. Everyone is so concerned about privacy now, as if they have something to hide. This thing is ugly - the Internet!
Наталія
This is a difficult issue and I can understand both sides. 🤔 However, we have to find a balance between protecting children and ensuring privacy. Maybe the tech giants can develop safer ways to monitor without violating our rights?