Vitalik Buterin Criticizes EU’s Chat Monitoring Plan, Calls It a Threat to Privacy

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has spoken out against the European Union’s proposed “chat control” legislation, warning that it could undermine user privacy and weaken security across digital communication platforms. The controversial plan would require messaging services to scan private chats for illegal content, including child exploitation material. While the goal is to improve safety, critics argue the approach opens the door to mass surveillance.

Buterin emphasized that mandatory scanning tools, especially if implemented at the device level, would create significant risks for users. In his view, such systems could be exploited by malicious actors or governments to monitor conversations unrelated to criminal activity. He compared the potential impact to introducing spyware into everyday communication apps, turning private messaging into a monitored space.

The proposed regulation, known formally as the CSA Regulation, has drawn heavy criticism from technologists and privacy advocates. They argue that weakening encryption or forcing platforms to scan content by default would compromise security for everyone, not just bad actors. Buterin echoed these concerns, stating that the right to privacy should not be sacrificed under the banner of protection, especially when alternative solutions may exist.

The debate reflects a larger tension between privacy and regulation in the digital age. As governments look to address real threats online, concerns are growing that such policies could erode civil liberties and trust in technology. With figures like Buterin joining the opposition, the EU’s proposal is likely to face increasing resistance from the tech community and digital rights groups across the globe.

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