EU Temporarily Extends Controversial Chat-Scanning Regime Until 2028

The EU has temporarily extended its controversial chat-scanning regime until 3 April 2028. Under the framework, messaging services may voluntarily deploy measures to detect suspected child sexual abuse material (CSAM), while end-to-end encrypted communications are carved out, following last-minute parliamentary amendments. EU ambassadors approved the written procedure that keeps the derogation active as negotiations continue on a permanent child sexual abuse regulation. Critics label it “chat control” and argue it risks normalising access to private messages, even in a temporary form.