Chatcontrol 2025: Resumen - Bert Hubert's writings
a day ago
- Under Danish leadership, many EU countries propose forcing messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal to use AI to scan all photos and links for child abuse material, sending reports with personal data even on slight suspicion.
- The AI would be developed by Meta/WhatsApp, outsourcing surveillance to US companies; the threshold for reporting is low (unless 'manifestly unfounded').
- Even if photos are deemed legal, copies may be retained for future use.
- Users who do not consent to scanning will lose the ability to share images and links; Signal has threatened to leave the EU.
- The proposal originally did not include AI; it was added recently.
- Police and child exploitation experts are already overwhelmed and argue for more resources for specialized units rather than mass surveillance.
- Governments have exempted themselves from the law, suggesting awareness of potential misuse.
- The German government is likely to support the proposal, increasing its chances of becoming law.