The European Union is inching closer to a law that could transform the digital privacy landscape across the continent. Known as the Chat Control proposal, the measure is now supported by 19 of the 27 EU member states, potentially clearing the path for mandatory scanning of all private messages — even before encryption is applied.
If passed, encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram could be required to scan content on users’ devices starting October.
EU Chat Control bill finds support. Source: Pavol Luptak
What Is Chat Control?
The initiative aims to combat child sexual abuse material (CSAM), but the scope of the law raises broad concerns about privacy, surveillance, and digital rights.
Unlike previous suggestions to weaken encryption, the new plan proposes client-side scanning. This means user content would be analyzed on the device itself — before it ever reaches the encryption layer.
Think of it as the digital version of someone reading your letter before you seal the envelope.
Growing Political Support and Timeline
The plan was reintroduced on July 1 by Denmark, as it assumed the EU Council presidency. France, which was previously against the law, now supports it. Other key backers include Italy, Spain, Sweden, Belgium, and Hungary.
Germany remains undecided. But if Berlin votes in favor, the EU Council could reach a qualified majority — enabling passage by mid-October.
A qualified majority requires:
15 out of 27 member states to agree
Those states must represent at least 65% of the EU population
Critics Warn of Mass Surveillance
Digital rights activists, including former MEP Patrick Breyer, argue that the measure represents automated, real-time surveillance at scale — effectively dismantling the concept of private messaging.
“This is not about catching criminals,” critics claim. “They’ll migrate to other channels. It’s about putting every citizen under algorithmic suspicion.”
The proposal also mandates age verification for messaging apps, potentially ending user anonymity on many platforms.
Resistance Builds Among Privacy Advocates
With final approval possible as early as October, civil society groups are urging users to:
Contact Members of the European Parliament (MEPs)
Sign petitions against the proposal
Support open-source, decentralized communication tools
The future of private digital correspondence in the EU may hinge on public resistance in the coming weeks.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.
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