The 'Free' World Is Targeting Your Private Messages

European Union officials are currently discussing a controversial proposal that would require or strongly encourage technology companies to scan all private messages for content related to child sexual abuse. Termed "chat control," the initiative would involve widespread monitoring of private communications, focusing on a specific type of content for now, though the limits of such monitoring are uncertain.

The debate over this measure reflects broader declines in digital freedoms, as highlighted in the latest Freedom on the Net 2025 report by Freedom House. During discussions over the summer, Danish Justice Minister Peter Hummelgaard, a supporter of extensive surveillance, stated that using encrypted messaging should not be viewed as a universal civil liberty. His comments implied the need for government access to encrypted communications, though the EU has since moderated its stance.

Under current plans, private companies could be held legally responsible for the content of their users' messages, effectively pushing them to implement monitoring to avoid liability. "Chat Control is not dead," commented privacy advocate and former European Parliament member Patrick Breyer, "it is just being privatized." In practice, companies may be pressured into performing surveillance on behalf of governments.

Freedom House reports that increasing censorship, suppression of protests, and threats to free expression contributed to the 15th consecutive year of global internet freedom decline. Authoritarian nations continue restrictive practices, but even democracies are showing signs of digital overreach. Half of the 18 countries rated "Free" experienced declines in internet freedom, with Georgia, Germany, and the United States among the most affected.

Georgia implemented strict regulations requiring foreign-funded organizations to register with the government and introduced criminal penalties for insulting officials. In Germany, prosecutions for online content, including memes targeting politicians, continue despite recent government changes, suggesting limited political willingness to loosen restrictions on speech.

In the U.S., past administrations have detained foreign nationals and investigated organizations over online expression, while pressuring social media platforms regarding content moderation. Globally, 57 of 72 countries in the report saw arrests or imprisonment for online expressiona historic high.

Experts suggest that the push for surveillance and censorship stems from the internet's democratization of communication. Digital platforms allow individuals to share ideas independently of traditional media and government channels, undermining long-standing institutional control. As philosopher Dan Williams notes, social media disrupts elite dominance over narratives, a concern echoed by former CIA analyst Martin Gurri, who argues technology has shifted the balance of power away from hierarchical institutions.

Governments attempt to regain control through monitoring and punishing online speech, but such measures risk eroding their credibility and alienating the public. While surveillance may suppress dissent, it cannot restore trust or respect for authorities.

Author’s Commentary: The Risks of “Chat Control” for Digital Freedom

The European Union’s ongoing discussions on “chat control” mark a significant moment in the debate over privacy and government oversight. While the initiative aims to combat child sexual abuse online, it also raises serious questions about the limits of private message monitoring and the role of technology companies in enforcing surveillance.

Under current proposals, companies could be held legally accountable for user content, effectively pressuring them to scan private communications. This shift from state-led to privatized enforcement blurs the lines between corporate responsibility and government surveillance, creating potential risks for user privacy and civil liberties.

Reports from Freedom House highlight a broader global decline in internet freedom, with both authoritarian and democratic countries imposing increasing restrictions. Measures like chat control may address security concerns, but they also risk further eroding trust in institutions and undermining public confidence in digital platforms.

Experts emphasize that the internet’s democratization of communication has challenged traditional power structures. Efforts to regain control through surveillance may suppress dissent temporarily, but they cannot restore legitimacy or respect for authorities in the long term. The EU’s approach to chat control will need careful consideration to balance protection against abuse with fundamental freedoms online.

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• The 'Free' World Is Coming for Your Private Messages