The French Parliament has passed a controversial law granting law enforcement authorities the power to remotely spy on citizens through their phones and other devices if suspected of criminal activity. The decision, which has raised concerns among privacy advocates and politicians, allows authorities to bypass security tools like VPN services and encrypted messaging apps. While Justice Minister Éric Dupond-Moretti denies claims of Orwellian surveillance, critics warn of potential infringements on fundamental liberties.
Expansion of Surveillance Powers:
With a significant majority of lawmakers voting in favour, French police will have extensive new powers to conduct surveillance on citizens. The justice reform bill empowers authorities to collect geolocation data of individuals suspected of crimes punishable by at least five years imprisonment. This includes the activation of cameras, microphones, and GPS on devices such as laptops, phones, cars, and other connected objects.
