# Security and regulatory scrutiny of messaging apps > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/security-and-regulatory-scrutiny-of-messaging-apps > Updated: 2026-09-23T02:23:24.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Authorities and cybersecurity experts are increasingly focusing on the risks and regulatory challenges posed by digital messaging applications such as WhatsApp, Signal, and Telegram. In Romania, competition authorities have begun inspecting mobile devices to review messaging histories, with the Competition Council issuing a 1 million euro fine for incomplete documentation. Experts note that while end-to-end encryption remains intact, authorities can bypass it by using legitimate device-linking features to turn a secondary device into a ‘trusted node’ in the communication ecosystem. Concurrently, there is a growing concern regarding cybersecurity training, which often prioritizes email over messenger services. Despite the rise of email volume, a significant majority of users consider messenger apps essential. This shift has led to increased vulnerabilities, with German security agencies reporting that state-sponsored actors have utilized platforms like Signal to conduct phishing attacks against high-ranking political, military, and diplomatic figures across Europe. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-23: Cybersecurity training must address messenger app risks Cybersecurity training must expand beyond email to include messenger apps like WhatsApp and Signal, as phishing attacks via these services increasingly target political and diplomatic figures. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/cybersecurity-training-must-address-messenger-app-risks ### 2026-09-12: Digital messaging apps face increased scrutiny from authorities Authorities are increasingly monitoring encrypted messaging apps like WhatsApp and Signal. Experts warn that linking secondary devices can bypass end-to-end encryption, while regulators impose heavy fines for's 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/digital-messaging-apps-face-increased-scrutiny-from-authorities --- Cite as: Security and regulatory scrutiny of messaging apps. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/security-and-regulatory-scrutiny-of-messaging-apps