UK Abandons Controversial Encryption Scanning Plan, Acknowledges Impracticality

The UK government has dropped proposals to legislate the scanning of end-to-end encrypted messages in its Online Safety Bill, acknowledging that it is not currently technically feasible. While some view this as a victory for technology firms, critics argue that the changes only represent the minimum needed to pass the bill, with the controversial clauses remaining in place until scanning becomes "technically feasible." Concerns have been raised about the potential negative consequences for privacy, data use, free speech, and democratic values if encryption is weakened. Amendments are urgently needed to protect online free speech and the right to privacy.