Dear friends,
The European Union is at a crossroads, and the stakes could not be higher. A new proposal threatens to undermine one of our most fundamental rights—our privacy. This initiative, called "Chat Control," would require the scanning of private messages and emails across Europe, even in services that are end-to-end encrypted. If this passes, our ability to communicate freely and securely in the digital world will be a thing of the past.
This is not just a theoretical issue—it’s happening now. The Council Presidency is pushing the proposal forward, with discussions planned for December 6, 2024. It’s crucial that we act now to protect our rights and freedoms before it’s too late.
As a united community, we’ve already proven what we can achieve. In the Czech Republic, we recently secured a Bitcoin tax exemption by working together and pressuring our politicians with constructive requests. If we mobilize on a European scale, we have a chance to stop this dangerous proposal in its tracks.
Let’s join forces, write to our representatives, and let them know that we won’t stand for mass surveillance. Let’s also spread the word to those around us—our friends, families, and networks. Together, we can make a difference.
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Situation Summary: The European Union is considering a proposal to mandate the scanning of all private messages and emails to combat child sexual exploitation material (CSEM). This initiative, known as "Chat Control," would apply even to end-to-end encrypted services, effectively ending digital privacy.
The proposal also includes measures such as network blocking, scanning personal cloud storage, mandatory age verification, and app store censorship, potentially excluding minors from the digital world.
Despite significant opposition from citizens, experts, and some Members of the European Parliament, the proposal is moving forward, with the last discussion few days ago at December 6, 2024.
Critics argue that this constitutes mass surveillance and severely undermines fundamental rights.
Thank you for standing up for privacy and freedom.
Wondrej