Switzerland's Proposed Internet Law Sparks Privacy Alarm, Proton Considers Exit
Switzerland's government is proposing sweeping changes to internet surveillance, sparking concern and action from privacy-focused companies like Proton. The proposed regulation aims to collect and store user data, potentially violating international laws, and has prompted Proton to invest in EU infrastructure and consider leaving Switzerland.
The Swiss government's draft law requires service providers with over 5,000 users to gather and store government-issued identification. This data must be kept for six months, accessible to authorities with minimal request. In some instances, the proposal suggests disabling encryption, raising alarm bells for privacy advocates.
Proton, a Swiss company known for its privacy-centric services, has responded by announcing a €100 million investment in the European Union. This move aims to develop a 'sovereign EuroStack', a self-hosted, privacy-respecting cloud infrastructure. Proton's CEO, Andy Yen, has stated that the proposed Swiss regulation may be illegal in the EU and the US, highlighting potential international conflicts.
The proposed law will allow law enforcement to seize metadata, including users' email addresses and phone numbers. This means internet users will no longer be able to register for services anonymously, as official identification will be mandatory. In response, Proton has decided to move most of its physical infrastructure out of Switzerland, citing the proposed law's impact on user privacy.
The Swiss government's proposed regulation seeks to enhance surveillance capabilities, but it raises significant privacy concerns. Proton's response, including investment in EU infrastructure and potential relocation, underscores the global implications of such laws. The proposed regulation's legality remains uncertain, with Proton's CEO raising questions about its compatibility with EU and US laws.
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