EU Delays ‘Chat Control’ Law Over Privacy and Encryption Concerns

The European Union has delayed its proposed “chat control” law designed to detect and prevent online child sexual abuse due to privacy concerns. The legislation would have required tech companies to scan images, videos, and links on high-risk platforms, including encrypted messaging services, for evidence of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM).

The proposal has faced opposition from member states including Germany, which argues that private communication must not be subjected to mass surveillance. Privacy advocates warn the law would undermine digital security and personal privacy protections. Encrypted platforms such as Signal have threatened to leave the EU market, citing the proposals as equivalent to mass surveillance.

Experts question the technical feasibility of accurately distinguishing CSAM from legitimate content, raising concerns that AI detection could fail and expose users to security risks. Critics also highlight that the legislation frames privacy and child protection as a binary choice and warn of a potential legal vacuum if effective, privacy-preserving detection technology is not developed.

The EU’s plan remains under review, with negotiations stalled over balancing child protection with fundamental privacy rights.