One of the most important features of WhatsApp is put to the test!
Despite the constant accusations, WhatsApp has always remained firm in guaranteeing the privacy of user communication with tools such as message encryption. However, it is precisely the application of this feature that could jeopardize the continuity of the service in the United Kingdom.
The recent discussion of a bill contemplates that WhatsApp must apply content moderation policies. Especially, the ones that ensure that only the user and the person they are communicating with can read or listen to what is being sent, and no one in between, not even Meta/Facebook, can access this content.
WhatsApp does not negotiate end-to-end encryption
The project promoted by government sectors child protection charities argue that end-to-end encryption is an obstacle to combating child abuse online.
About, Meta WhatsApp boss Will Cathcart said he would refuse to comply if you are asked to weaken your encryption, as you would for all users.
Our users around the world want security – 98% of our users are outside the UK, they don’t want us to lower the security of the product. I would prefer to block the app in the UK. We have recently been blocked in Iran, for example. We have never seen a liberal democracy do that.”
When a liberal democracy says, ‘Is it okay to scan everyone’s private communications for illegal content?’ That encourages countries around the world that have vastly different definitions of illegal content to come up with the same thing.
If WhatsApp refuses to do so, could face fines of up to 4 percent of annual turnover from its parent company, Meta.
The scenario has made executives from other platforms that claim to be even more secure than WhatsApp have also shared their position on the matter. The president of the encrypted messaging app signalMeredith Whittaker, said that if necessary would stop your service in the UK if the bill requires limiting privacy.
However, It will not be until the beginning of this summer when the discussion will resume in Parliamentwhich, once again, revives the dilemma of technology companies to ensure privacy or security.