The Australian Government have released a draft Bill [The Assistance and Access Bill 2018] designed to compel device manufacturers and service providers to assist law enforcement in accessing encrypted information. Although apparently developed to allow government agencies access to criminals’ encrypted communications, the Bill also grants broad, sweeping powers to government agencies that will harm the security and stability of our communications and the internet at large.
The government asked the public for feedback, with submissions closing on September 10, 2018.
Here’s our top three concerns with this Bill:
- Creates obligations on technology producers and communication providers, forcing them to work for law enforcement agencies;
- Creates powers that would allow police to seize information directly from a device; and
- Allows government operatives to access more data through current warrants.
The government consultation period on this draft legislation has now closed, but you can read the full detail of our concerns in our submission to the government. Rest assured, this is not the end of the fight – we’ll keep working to ensure that encryption is protected.
If you’re interesting in joining the campaign to defend encryption, please sign up here:
Further info/reading: