EU moves closer to reviving CSAM scanning law after parliamentary vote

Politico EU reports that the European Union is one step closer to reviving a child sexual abuse law after a high-stakes vote in Strasbourg. The European Parliament voted to send a bill that would give tech companies the legal right to scan for child sexual abuse material to EU member countries for approval.

This development follows the European Parliament's rejection of a similar bill in March and a subsequent push by the center-right European People's Party, which prompted EU capitals to restart negotiations. The fight against online child abuse material has intensified, with child rights groups advocating for the bill's role in protecting children, while critics raise concerns about privacy and surveillance risks. An amendment was added to exempt end-to-end encrypted services like WhatsApp and Signal from scanning rules. Both proponents and opponents expressed disappointment, with some seeking a clearer return of the law without amendments and others criticizing the forced vote.

Tech firms face continued uncertainty as they await a permanent legal solution, while child rights advocates emphasize the urgency of closing the legal gap to protect children. The bill's passage was heavily influenced by center-right votes, with other groups split. The Council will now review the amendments, with potential deadlock if they refuse to accept the changes regarding encryption.

Source: Politico EU