11
May
2026
Encryption and concerns about access to private online communication – people’s views across the EU
The ability to communicate freely and privately online is protected under Article 7 of the EU Charter; it is a crucial enabler of other fundamental rights, particularly as the world becomes increasingly digital. This paper presents results from an EU-wide survey about people’s views on encryption of their private online communication. It looks, for example, at concern regarding access by outside actors to information shared when using private messaging applications. The results indicate that people highly value encryption and at the same time have concerns about online communications being accessed without their knowledge or permission. It provides a timely evidence base to shape policy discussions on internal security and digital privacy.
About this publication
© European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights, 2026
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Luxembourg: Publications Office of the European Union, 2026
HTML
- TK-01-26-018-EN-Q
- ISBN: 978-92-9489-809-8
- DOI: 10.2811/4263124
- TK-01-26-018-EN-N
- ISBN: 978-92-9489-810-4
- DOI: 10.2811/2763158
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