Senate Judiciary GOP Encryption Bill Draws CTA, CCIA Backlash
Senate Judiciary Committee Republicans introduced legislation Tuesday that would let police lawfully access encrypted data, ending the practice of warrant-proof encryption. Introduced by Chairman Lindsey Graham, S.C.; Tom Cotton, Ark.; and Marsha Blackburn, Tenn., the Lawful Access to Encrypted Data…
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Act would require service providers and device manufacturers provide police assistance in accessing encrypted devices or necessary data. This would require a warrant “based on probable cause that a crime has occurred, authorizing law enforcement to search and seize the data,” the lawmakers said. Republicans and Democrats drew attention to the issue in December (see 1912100039). The bill would “destroy” American trust in the privacy of conversations and information, said CTA CEO Gary Shapiro: “Americans value their privacy and don’t want to see government take it away from them. That’s why we should be encouraging encryption.” The Computer & Communications Industry Association also raised concerns, saying it would leave millions of Americans vulnerable to hackers and criminals. “This would be a particularly unfortunate moment to weaken protections that keep us all safe,” said President Matt Schruers.