Co-founder of the Ethereum platform Vitalik Buterin has sharply criticized the legislative initiative of the European Union that proposes control over users’ personal chats. The bill suggests scanning private messages for prohibited content, which Buterin believes poses a significant threat to digital privacy and the security of citizens.
This is reported by Business • Media
Concerns About Digital Security and Privacy
Buterin emphasized that the right to confidential correspondence is fundamental to a safe digital space. He believes that the creation of so-called “backdoors” for law enforcement access poses a particular danger. He stressed that such mechanisms can inevitably be hacked, jeopardizing the security of all users without exception.
“You cannot make society safe by making people vulnerable. We all deserve privacy and security, without backdoors that can inevitably be hacked, for our private communications.”
Another issue that outraged Buterin concerns provisions in the bill that exempt officials, military personnel, and intelligence agents from oversight. He called this a manifestation of hypocrisy, reinforcing concerns about the selective application of the law.
Impact on the Digital Services Market and Expert Opinions
The bill has already gained support in 15 EU countries; however, the final decision depends on Germany’s position, which could significantly influence the future of the initiative due to its demographic weight.
Opponents of the legislative changes emphasize that the new rules violate Articles 7 and 8 of the Charter of the European Union, which guarantee the protection of citizens’ private lives and personal data. They argue that the forced scanning of personal chats contradicts established European principles of protection against excessive state interference.
Experts in the digital technology market believe that such initiatives could accelerate the outflow of users to decentralized Web3 platforms. Hans Rempel, CEO of Diode, highlighted that the slogan “not your keys — not your data” takes on special significance in light of the risks associated with centralized services. Elisenda Fabrega, a representative of Brickken, expressed the opinion that if the proposed law is passed, Europe may lose its influence on shaping global standards for digital privacy.