European Union Cracks Down On WhatsApp And Skype Data Privacy
WhatsApp, Skype and other online messaging services are set to fall under new rules as the European Union extends the scope of telecoms regulation.In a move that highlights the gulf between Europe and the U.S. in regulating the internet, the European commission will publish a draft law on data privacy that aims to ensure instant message and internet voice call services face similar security and privacy rules to those governing SMS text messages, mobile calls and landline calls.According to a draft policy paper seen by the Financial Times, the likes of WhatsApp, owned by Facebook, and Skype, owned by Microsoft, would have to abide by "security and confidentiality provisions."Try Newsweek for only $1.25 per weekThe policy paper, which is due in September, also outlines how these services—where voice calls and messages are delivered via the internet—would have to comply with requests from security services, as well as regulating how they can make money from customer data, the Financial Times reports.
Europe wants to control the likes of WhatsApp and Skype like telcos
The EU is looking to exert greater control over online messaging tools such as WhatsApp and Skype.Documents seen by the Financial Times suggest that Brussels wants to treat such services more like traditional telecoms companies.The proposals come amid mounting privacy concerns about data handling, particularly the "security and confidentiality provisions" from companies like Microsoft and Facebook.
WhatsApp and Skype May Be More Heavily Regulated in the EU
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