Arrr, mateys! France be grantin' the power o' spyin' on its landlubbin' citizens through their talkin' boxes!
2023-07-06
Arrr, ye scurvy dogs! These fancy VPN services and other tools can't shield ye from the watchful eye of state-surveillance. Avast! What be France's justice reform bill got in store for us next, me hearties?
French authorities will soon have new powers to spy on citizens remotely through their phones and other devices, according to a recent Parliament session. The majority of lawmakers voted in favor of this provision, which would allow state surveillance even if individuals use security tools like VPN services or encrypted messaging apps. Despite concerns raised by privacy advocates and politicians, Justice Minister Éric Dupond-Moretti dismisses allegations that this move will lead to an Orwellian dystopia.Digital rights group La Quadrature du Net warned about the potential infringement of fundamental liberties in May. Now, with 80 votes in favor and 24 against, law enforcement officers across France will be able to collect geolocation details of anyone suspected of a crime with a minimum punishment of five years in jail. They will also have the authority to activate the camera, microphone, and GPS on laptops, cars, phones, computers, and other connected devices.
Members of President Macron's party have proposed limiting remote spying activities to situations where the crime is serious and justified, with a maximum duration of six months. Certain professionals, such as doctors, journalists, lawyers, judges, and MPs, would be exempt from this surveillance.
Despite backlash, Dupond-Moretti remains convinced that this law will save lives. This provision is part of a broader justice system reform that aims to modernize and bring France's system in line with its EU neighbors. The plan includes investing more money in modernization, expanding prisons, and increasing the workforce.
While there is a need for police reform in France, granting invasive spying powers to authorities may further divide the nation. The images of clashes between officers and protesters following the killing of Nahel Merzouk illustrate the tension already present in the country.