European lawmakers have intensified their criticism of the European Commission’s perceived inaction in addressing spyware misuse within the EU. This condemnation follows the failure of the commission to enforce stricter rules proposed by the PEGA Committee back in May.
The committee’s recommendations included tighter export controls on commercial spyware and the limited use of such surveillance tools only in exceptional cases posing genuine threats to national security. As the Nov. 30 deadline, set by lawmakers to implement these regulations, draws near, the European Commission faces mounting pressure to take action. Lawmakers voiced concerns that the commission’s lack of response has contributed to a surge in recent spyware-related incidents.
These incidents encompass alleged instances of targeting exiled journalists, like Galina Timchenko, using spyware tools while residing in Germany. Additionally, there have been accusations of governments attempting to obstruct investigations into the abuse of spyware by their officials. Amid these challenges, the European Commission finds itself criticized for lacking adequate investigatory powers to counteract spyware misuse effectively. Although existing data protection regulations and the European Convention on Human Rights provide avenues for victims seeking justice, lawmakers stress the need for more stringent measures to curb spyware abuse. The situation has led to calls for the commission to adopt a more proactive stance akin to the U.S. government’s approach in blacklisting spyware companies, signaling a growing urgency to address this security concern.
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