Asger Risom
The EU’s proposed “Chat Control” law could force messaging and email platforms to scan private messages. Supporters say it protects children—critics warn it sacrifices privacy.
The EU’s proposed “Chat Control” law could force messaging and email platforms to scan private messages. Supporters say it protects children—critics warn it sacrifices privacy.
A digital dilemma for Europe
As online abuse grows, the EU is reconsidering how to balance child protection with personal data rights in the digital age.
What chat control is
Chat Control is a legislative idea that would require apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Gmail to scan all user messages and files automatically for child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Which platforms would be affected
Messaging services (e.g. WhatsApp, Signal) and email providers (e.g. Gmail, Outlook) could be mandated to inspect content—even with end‑to‑end encryption currently in place.
Privacy vs. surveillance
Though the goal is protecting minors, forcing platforms to scan private messages may open the door to mass surveillance or misuse by bad actors.
From optional to obligatory
Under Chat Control 1.0, content scanning was voluntary. The push now is for Chat Control 2.0, making it a legal requirement for all providers.
Europe’s split lines
Some EU nations support the mandate on child‑safety grounds; others oppose it, arguing it conflicts with fundamental privacy and human rights.
Legal and constitutional challenges
Experts argue the proposal may violate existing EU laws on data protection and privacy. Courts may strike down or require major revisions.
Encryption under threat
Chat Control could force providers to break or bypass end‑to‑end encryption—the very safeguard that keeps messages private between sender and recipient.
Legislative phases ahead
Even if passed, Chat Control 2.0 would enter a long process of debate, amendment, and review in the European Parliament and other institutions before any enforcement.
What comes next
The issue remains live: the Council may revisit it in future sessions, amendments may reshape key provisions, and legal courts may intervene. The final shape and timeline remain uncertain.
Why it matters to you
If implemented broadly, Chat Control would reshape how private our digital lives remain. European users must follow its developments—because the balance between safety and surveillance is at stake.
This article is made and published by Asger Risom, which may have used AI in the preparation
