The European Union has a mixed reputation when it comes to regulating the Internet. On the one hand, there is the famous data protection legislation, the GDPR, but, on the other hand, there are more controversial proposals such as the control of online conversations. However, a little-talked about bill could have catastrophic effects: the revision of the EU digital identity law (eIDAS).
Discussion about this law has been going on for some time and the intentions may be good, but experts are raising serious concerns. They can result in increased surveillance, censorship and even a false sense of online security for users.
Dark details: what's going on with web security
Before we delve into the details, you might remember the little padlock you often see in the address bar when browsing the web. This icon represents an encrypted HTTPS connection, which is supposed to be an indicator of security. However, the reality is that this padlock only guarantees a “secure connection” and not a “secure website”.
- The Truth About HTTPS Locks: Many people think that an HTTPS lock means a secure website. However, this is not true. It just ensures that the connection is secure.
- The problem with EV certificates: Before padlocks, we had extended validation (EV) certificates. Anyone could issue these certificates, deceiving users.
The tortuous path of the European Commission
The European Commission, in trying to correct these problems, may be heading in the wrong direction. Mozilla, a secure browser provider, recently published a report warning about the potential unintended consequences of the revised eIDAS law.
- Article 45.2: This is a particularly controversial section of the revision proposal. It could allow for greater government intervention in the way online security is managed.
- False Sense of Security: The proposal could end up giving users a false sense that they are protected, while leaving them exposed to more risks and surveillance.
Why is this a big problem for people?
So what does this mean for you as a user? In short, good intentions can have adverse effects. If the law review goes ahead as it is, there could be an increase in censorship and surveillance, reducing your freedom and privacy online. And all this while giving you a false sense of security.
- Greater surveillance: The proposal could allow greater data collection by authorities.
- Increased censorship: There is a real risk that online content could be more tightly controlled.
And while many of us may think that none of this will affect us, it is important to remember that once these doors open, it will be very difficult to close them. The best thing to do now is to be informed and, when possible, participate in the public debate about these changes that could affect us all.
