The European Commission has come under fire once again for its lack of transparency in drafting a controversial proposal to scan private messages for child sexual abuse material (CSAM). The proposal, which has raised concerns about privacy and security, has been met with opposition from EU institutions and civil society groups. The EU’s ombudsman is currently investigating a complaint alleging a lack of transparency and has found preliminary evidence of maladministration by the Commission.
The ombudsman’s investigation centers on the Commission’s refusal to release documents related to its dealings with private technology companies. The withheld documents include correspondence with potential suppliers of CSAM-scanning technology, raising concerns that commercial interests may have influenced the Commission’s drafting of the proposal.
The ombudsman has urged the Commission to reconsider its position and provide greater access to the withheld documents. The Commission has yet to respond to the ombudsman’s findings.
The CSAM-scanning proposal is part of a broader effort by the EU to combat child sexual abuse. However, critics argue that the proposal goes too far and could have a negative impact on privacy and security. The proposal is currently being debated by the European Parliament and the Council of the European Union.
The European Parliament has proposed a revised draft of the legislation that would limit the scope of the scanning. However, the Council has yet to reach a consensus on its negotiating position.
The outcome of the debate over the CSAM-scanning proposal will have a significant impact on the future of privacy and security in the EU.
