UK reassures big tech over new encryption rules

Encryption is a feature of many instant messaging platforms but Parkinson said companies would not be forced into digital snooping of users. — Photo by Adem AY on Unsplash

LONDON: The British government on Sept 6 gave guarantees to instant messaging platforms over concerns that they could be forced to monitor encrypted messages for harmful content.

Several tech companies, including Meta-owned WhatsApp and Signal, voiced fears at a proposed law that could force them to stop end-to-end encryption of private communications.