UK Government Stands Firm on Scanning Encrypted Messages Despite Criticism
The UK government denies dropping its plan to scan encrypted messaging services for harmful content as part of the Online Safety Bill, despite reports suggesting a concession to tech companies' concerns. The bill allows regulator Ofcom to order messaging services to use "accredited technology" to detect and remove child sexual abuse material. However, the government's minister for arts and heritage clarified that Ofcom would only intervene if scanning content was technically feasible and met privacy and accuracy standards. Tech firms argue that content moderation policies like scanning encrypted messages are impossible without compromising end-to-end encryption. Apple, WhatsApp, and Signal have threatened to withdraw services or leave the UK if the bill proceeds as is. The technology minister maintains that companies must develop scanning technology if they cannot prevent child abuse on their platforms.