Meta just lately stated that it might implement end-to-end encryption in Facebook Messenger and Instagram by 2023, regardless of robust opposition from governments within the UK and elsewhere. However, the UK Home Office is reportedly planning an advert marketing campaign to mobilize public opinion towards end-to-end encryption utilizing what critics referred to as “scaremongering” techniques, in keeping with a report from Rolling Stone. 

The UK authorities plans to crew up with charities and legislation enforcement businesses on a public relations blitz created by M&C Saatchi promoting company, the report states. The purpose of the marketing campaign is to relay a message that end-to-end encryption may hamper baby exploitation on-line. 

“We have engaged M&C Saatchi to bring together the many organizations who share our concerns about the impact end-to-end encryption would have on our ability to keep children safe,” a Home Office spokesperson advised Rolling Stone in an announcement. The authorities has allotted £534,000 ($730,500) for the blitz, in keeping with a letter despatched from the Home Office in response to a freedom of data request. 

The marketing campaign might embody components designed to make the general public “uneasy,” in keeping with a slideshow designed to assist it recruit non-profit coalition companions. That features a proposed stunt with grownup and baby actors positioned in a glass field because it fades to black. It additionally entails a “social media activation where we ask parents to write to Mark [Zuckerberg] via their Facebook status.” 

One slide famous that “most of the public have never heard” of end-to-end encryption, which means they will “be easily swayed” on the topic. It additionally states that the federal government “must not start a privacy vs safety debate.” 

Privacy advocates referred to as the plans “scaremongering” and stated {that a} lack of end-to-end encryption may have the other meant impact. “Without strong encryption, children are more vulnerable online than ever. Encryption protects personal safety and national security… what the government is proposing puts everyone at risk,” Internet Society’s Robin Wilton advised Rolling Stone.