EU Parliament extends Chat Control to scan private messages until 2028

The European Parliament voted to renew the controversial “Chat Control” exemption to the ePrivacy Directive, allowing large online platforms to scan non‑encrypted private messages for child sexual abuse material until 2028. An amendment secured by liberal MEPs excludes end‑to‑end encrypted services such as Signal and WhatsApp from automatic scanning.

The measure was adopted through an emergency procedure, passing by a narrow margin of 47 votes short of an absolute majority. Digital‑rights groups and privacy advocates warn that the regime creates a de‑facto mass‑surveillance framework, turning all users into suspects and risking misuse of the technology beyond its stated purpose. Critics also note that the current system generates many false alerts and burdens law‑enforcement resources.

Proponents argue the tool is essential for protecting children online, while opponents call for targeted investigations, judicial oversight and stronger police resources instead of broad automatic scanning. A future “Chat Control 2.0” could extend the regime to encrypted communications, intensifying the debate.