WhatsApp privacy at risk from new bill pushed by Republicans

Senators describe platforms like Telegram and WhatsApp as 'lawless playgrounds of criminal activity'

WhatsApp was the most-blocked platform in 2019 (iStock)

A group of Republican Senators have introduced a bill to end the use of “warrant-proof encrypted technology” used by popular messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram.

The Lawful Access to Encrypted Data Act is aimed at “bolstering national security interests” but would compromise the security and privacy measures put in place by technology firms.

If passed, it could require companies to build so-called “back doors” into their products, allowing private conversations to be accessed by third parties.

The bill was introduced by Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Lindsey Graham on Tuesday, along with fellow Republican Senators Tom Cotton and Marsha Blackburn.

“After law enforcement obtains the necessary court authorisations, they should be able to retrieve information to assist in their investigations,” Graham said in a statement.

“Our legislation respects and protects the privacy rights of law-abiding Americans. It also puts the terrorists and criminals on notice that they will no longer be able to hide behind technology to cover their tracks.”

Senator Blackburn claimed that the apps have become popular with “drug traffickers and child predators”, while Senator Cotton described them as a “lawless playground of criminal activity.”

Privacy advocates have consistently noted the importance of end-to-end encryption for internet users, as it protects people from hackers, oppressive governments, corporations and any other unwanted surveillance.

Technology companies have also pushed back against previous attempts to compromise the privacy and security of its users.

In 2016, Apple refused a request from the FBI to assist in retrieving data from an iPhone used by one of the terrorists who carried out the San Bernardino shooting attacks.

In response to the latest proposal, Facebook said compromising end-to-end encryption would put its users at risk.

“End-to-end encryption is a necessity in modern life – it protects billions of messages sent every day on many apps and services, especially in times like these when we can’t be together,” the firm said in a statement.

“Rolling back this vital protection will make us all less safe, not more. We are committed to continuing to work with law enforcement and fighting abuse while preserving the ability for all Americans to communicate privately and securely.”