Government vs. Tech Giants: Will Online Safety Bill Undermine Your Privacy?

A battle is brewing between tech companies and the UK government over the Online Safety Bill. Signal and WhatsApp are both talking tough, saying they'll pack up their apps and hit the road if the government undermines their encryption. And you know what? I don't blame them one bit.

As private companies, WhatsApp and Signal have the right to control the features and functions of their products. The proposed bill would require them to alter their products in a way that could result in lost users or revenue. This could have significant financial and reputational implications for these companies, which could be seen as an infringement on their property rights.

The bill's requirement to scan messages on encrypted apps could also compromise the privacy and security of users. This could result in a loss of trust in the app, further harming the company's reputation and business. Therefore, any proposal to undermine encryption should consider the impact it could have on the property rights of companies and their ability to conduct their business.

The government says the bill is all about preventing child abuse and terrorism, but critics say it could undermine the right to communicate privately and securely.

The government has no right to force companies to weaken encryption. Individuals should be free to pursue their own lives without interference from the government or other groups.

But the government isn't backing down. They say they need to scan messages on encrypted apps for child sexual abuse material or terrorism content. That might sound reasonable, but it's not that simple.

Experts warn that weakening encryption creates vulnerabilities that endanger the rights of all users, including children. If encryption is weakened, it could allow hackers or malicious actors to access sensitive information, such as personal messages or financial information, compromising individual privacy and security. Information such as what school a child attends, might get into the hands of criminals.

So, what's the solution? I'd argue that the government's concerns about child safety and terrorism can be addressed through other means, such as increased funding for police or intelligence agencies. Improving their capabilities to identify and track down terrorists and child exploiters is the way to go.

But one thing's for sure, we can't let the government trample on our individual freedoms and personal privacy. That's exactly what the proposed Online Safety Bill does.

And let's not forget about the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act (RIPA). This law grants the government broad powers to intercept communications, including those of innocent individuals, without adequate oversight or transparency. That's just plain wrong.

There have been many cases where RIPA has been misused, including spying on families suspected of littering and journalists suspected of protecting their sources.

In a free and open society, individuals should be able to communicate without fear of government interference or persecution.

I would encourage anyone to write to the MP and voice their opposition the Online Safety Bill. It’s just another little chip away at our civil liberties and they really hope you’re not paying attention.

Rob Ede - Wessex Coordinator