A Threat to Digital Privacy Across Europe
In a chilling twist for digital privacy across Europe, the European Union (EU) is pushing forward with a highly controversial measure known as the “Chat Control” proposal — a legislative effort that critics say could mark the end of private online communication as we know it.
As of now, 19 of the EU’s 27 member states support the plan, which aims to force messaging platforms — including WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram — to scan every single message, image, and video sent by users. Yes, even those protected by end-to-end encryption.
Political Reversal: France Joins the Push
The renewed push came on July 1, when Denmark reintroduced the proposal upon assuming the presidency of the EU Council. In a surprising political pivot, France — previously a critic — now backs the legislation, according to whistleblower and former EU Parliament member Patrick Breyer, as cited by French tech commentator Korben.
Other supporting countries include Belgium, Hungary, Sweden, Italy, and Spain. Germany remains undecided. However, if it joins the majority, the bill could gain qualified majority — meaning it may legally pass with a Council of the European Union vote as early as mid-October.
To meet this threshold, at least 15 countries representing 65% of the EU’s population must support the bill — and we’re alarmingly close.
Surveillance Baked Into Your Phone
Rather than cracking encryption directly, the proposal introduces something arguably worse: client-side scanning. This technique installs monitoring software directly on users’ devices — scanning content before it’s encrypted and sent.
“It’s like having the post office read your letters out loud in your living room before you seal the envelope,” quipped Korben, painting a dystopian picture of what lies ahead.
And the real kicker? The system doesn’t even target organized crime or terrorism suspects, who are known to use decentralized or custom encryption tools. Instead, it opens everyday conversations to algorithmic surveillance, catching regular users in its digital dragnet.
Justified by Protecting Children — But At What Cost?
The EU justifies the sweeping invasion of privacy under the noble banner of preventing Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). But digital rights advocates, including Patrick Breyer, argue that this is just a cover for mass surveillance.
If passed, this law could lead to:
- Real-time monitoring of private chats
- Mandatory age verification for app access
- The elimination of anonymity on most platforms
Breyer warns it could dismantle the right to private communication — a fundamental human right in democratic societies.
Growing Resistance Across the EU
Digital rights organizations are urging immediate action. They’re encouraging citizens to:
- Sign petitions
- Reach out to Members of the European Parliament (MEPs)
- Use social media to raise awareness
An infographic released by Breyer illustrates the massive scope of the proposal, showing how even mundane personal chats could fall under surveillance.
France’s Censorship Crisis: A Dark Omen?
This renewed push comes as France faces scrutiny over its freedom of expression stance. Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, recently accused French intelligence agencies of attempting to pressure him to censor conservative voices ahead of Romania’s 2025 elections.
Durov, briefly detained in France in August 2024, warned that the country risks societal collapse if it continues down an authoritarian path.
Final Thoughts: Privacy vs. Protection
The EU’s “Chat Control” bill could set a chilling precedent — one where privacy becomes a luxury and surveillance the default. While child protection is vital, critics argue that sacrificing the digital rights of millions isn’t the answer.
With a final decision expected by October, the future of private messaging in Europe hangs in the balance. The world is watching to see whether the EU will uphold human rights, or become a cautionary tale for the digital age.
