Vitalik slams EU’s Chat Control: ‘We all deserve privacy and security’

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has spoken out against the European Union’s proposed “Chat Control” law, warning that the plan could create more risks than protections. In a recent post on X, Buterin stressed that privacy and security are fundamental rights, arguing that forcing mass scanning of private conversations would weaken both. He emphasized that introducing backdoors into communication systems makes them “inevitably hackable,” exposing users to new threats instead of ensuring safety.

His remarks add weight to the ongoing debate surrounding the EU’s controversial proposal, which aims to detect child sexual abuse material (CSAM) through the scanning of user messages. While the law is presented as a measure to protect children, critics argue it could erode digital freedoms, compromise security, and set a troubling precedent for surveillance in democratic societies.

Why Vitalik Buterin on EU Chat Control matters

Buterin’s remarks echo concerns from cryptographers and privacy advocates that client-side scanning erodes end-to-end encryption, creating systemic vulnerabilities. The latest versions of the proposal, debated within the EU Council, have drawn pushback from several member states and civil society groups warning of “function creep” and false positives.

What was said: Vitalik Buterin on EU Chat Control

Buterin argued that you “cannot make society secure by making people insecure,” framing universal scanning as a net harm to cybersecurity. His post responded to entrepreneur Pieter Levels, who urged voters to oppose the measure.

What is “Chat Control” (CSAM proposal)?

The European Commission’s Regulation to prevent and combat child sexual abuse seeks new powers for detecting CSAM, including scanning private messages before or after encryption. Critics say this amounts to general monitoring and conflicts with Articles 7 and 8 of the EU Charter (privacy and data protection). Supporters argue it’s needed to combat abuse at scale.

Germany’s pivotal vote

Under qualified majority voting, backers must represent at least 55% of member states and 65% of the EU population. Reports indicate a bloc supports the measure but may lack the population share without Germany. Recent coverage notes Germany’s opposition or hesitation could tip the balance. A key Council discussion window spans September–October 2025.

Exemptions controversy

An April 2024 report said interior ministers discussed exempting themselves and security services from scanning, prompting accusations of double standards. Advocacy sites have echoed similar claims another flashpoint in the debate.

Potential impact on Web3 and encryption

Privacy-by-design services self-custodied messengers, decentralized storage, and E2EE—could see rising demand if blanket scanning advances. Security experts warn mandated backdoors risk exploitation by criminals and hostile actors, undermining trust in European digital services.

 Solana staking ETFs and the policy market link

U.S. regulators have streamlined paths for some crypto ETFs, spurring filings including Solana products with staking features—while analysts forecast decisions in early to mid-October. The first U.S. SOL + staking ETF (SSK) launched in July on Cboe BZX, signaling investor appetite for yield-bearing crypto exposure. Policy decisions affecting privacy and custody can influence such market developments. Reuters+2REX Shares+2

<section id=”howto”> <h3>How to protect private chats if scanning rules tighten</h3> <ol> <li id=”step1″><strong>Step 1:</strong> Use end-to-end encrypted apps with audited, open protocols; keep apps updated.</li> <li id=”step2″><strong>Step 2:</strong> Enable device-level protections (strong passcodes, auto-lock, disk encryption, hardware keys).</li> <li id=”step3″><strong>Step 3:</strong> Minimize cloud backups of sensitive chats; prefer local, encrypted backups where possible.</li> <li id=”step4″><strong>Step 4:</strong> Verify contacts’ safety keys and watch for key-change alerts before sharing sensitive info.</li> <li id=”step5″><strong>Step 5:</strong> Follow project transparency reports and EU legislative updates to adapt quickly.</li> </ol> <p><em>Note: Process may vary by jurisdiction/provider. Confirm requirements before acting.</em></p> </section>

Context & Analysis

 The EU is attempting to reconcile child-safety imperatives with encryption norms. Qualified-majority dynamics make Germany a kingmaker. Buterin’s comments amplify a long-standing cryptography consensus: systemic backdoors create broad attack surfaces. If scanning mandates proceed, enterprises may face higher compliance costs and users may migrate to privacy-preserving, sometimes decentralized, tools intended or not.

Conclusion

The next stage of the EU’s “Chat Control” debate will center on how the Council positions itself through October. Lawmakers are expected to face strong pressure to revise the proposal, particularly around encryption, which has sparked some of the fiercest criticism. Possible adjustments could include carve-outs for certain services, more narrowly defined detection orders, or safeguards that require stronger judicial approval.

The way these revisions unfold will determine Europe’s digital-rights framework for years to come. Beyond regional impact, the decision is likely to influence global policy discussions and even shape how crypto and other privacy-focused technologies are designed.

FAQs

Q : What is the EU’s “Chat Control” proposal?

A : It is a draft regulation that would enable the scanning of private messages to detect child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Critics argue it threatens encryption and raises serious privacy concerns.

Q : What did Vitalik Buterin say?

A : Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin warned that mandated backdoors are “inevitably hackable,” stressing that everyone deserves both privacy and security.

Q : Why does Germany’s vote matter?

A : For the law to pass, member states representing 65% of the EU population must agree. Germany’s stance is pivotal, as it could determine whether the threshold is reached.

Q : Are lawmakers exempt from scanning?

A : A 2024 report revealed that officials discussed possible exemptions for lawmakers and security services, drawing sharp criticism over double standards.

Q : How could this affect encrypted apps?

A : Experts caution that client-side scanning may undermine end-to-end encryption (E2EE) and increase the risk of false positives.

Q : Is there market impact?

A : Yes. Policy clarity is closely watched by crypto markets. Analysts expect moves on Solana staking ETFs after streamlined ETF standards gain traction.

Q : Does this article’s keyword matter?

A : Yes. Using the keyword Vitalik Buterin on EU Chat Control helps readers and search engines connect directly with this specific privacy-focused story.