Published on
27/07/2026 - 8:15 GMT+2
The EU is debating how far platforms should go in scanning private digital messages and conversations.
Earlier this month, MEPs approved extending the “Chat Control 1.0” regulation until April 2028. The measure, in force since 2021, allows platforms to voluntarily scan digital private messages and emails. This doesn’t apply to end-to-end encrypted services, including WhatsApp and Signal, where only senders and receivers can read messages.
Chat control is an exception to Europe’s e-Privacy Directive, which protects private online activity and communication. It requires users’ consent before any access, monitoring, or use.
