Key Highlights
- Vitalik Buterin says EU chat bill could leave millions exposed
- Critics warn the law risks Europe’s global privacy leadership
- Experts see a possible surge toward Web3 if the bill passes
Vitalik Buterin Warns Of Privacy And Security Risks In EU Chat Bill
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has voiced strong opposition to the European Union’s proposed “chat monitoring” bill. The legislation would require private messages to be scanned for prohibited content, sparking concerns among privacy advocates and tech leaders.
Buterin argued that such measures not only undermine the fundamental right to privacy but also weaken the security of digital communications. He warned that creating backdoors for law enforcement would “inevitably lead to their hacking,” leaving all users, including law-abiding citizens exposed to new risks.
Critics Call Out Hypocrisy And Rising Dangers
The controversy gained momentum after entrepreneur Peter Levels urged European citizens to reject the law. According to reports, the draft bill contains exemptions for government officials, military personnel, and intelligence officers. Buterin called this a clear act of hypocrisy, pointing out that citizens would face surveillance while authorities remain untouched.
The initiative has already secured the support of 15 EU countries, but has not yet reached the majority needed under EU voting rules. Germany’s stance will ultimately decide the outcome, making it a decisive player in the bill’s future.
A Push Toward Decentralized Alternatives
Opponents stress that the bill clashes with Articles 7 and 8 of the EU Charter, which guarantee the protection of privacy and personal data. Some experts warn that if passed, the legislation could accelerate the adoption of decentralized Web3 platforms.
Hans Rempel, CEO of Diode, noted that the slogan “not your keys, not your data” has become increasingly relevant as users grow wary of centralized platforms. Brickken spokesperson Elisenda Fàbrega added that the EU risks losing global influence over digital privacy standards if it moves forward with the law.
For now, all eyes remain on Berlin — and whether Europe’s biggest economy will side with privacy advocates or back the controversial bill.
