UK device-scanning plan to block nude images sparks privacy fears

Britain's plan to require device-level scanning to block nude images for children has drawn sharp pushback from Signal, which warns the on-device checks could enable mass surveillance and censorship beyond child protection. The proposal, not yet law, gives tech firms a three-month ultimatum to comply or face legislation, tying into broader debates over the Investigatory Powers Act and Online Safety Act. Critics argue on-device scanning creates new security risks and could be repurposed to monitor citizens, while proponents say it could improve child safety without sending data off devices.