Western fears of encryption lack substance

Significance

In the wake of the terrorist attacks in Paris, the political debate on law enforcement 'going dark' due to encryption has resurfaced again in the United States and United Kingdom. However, governments have yet to demonstrate evidence of a loss of security capability because of encryption.

Impacts

• The 'going dark' debate may be being used to distract from security agencies' existing surveillance capabilities.
• The debate's outcome could have a severe negative effect on consumer trust in internet-based businesses.
• Businesses will see opportunities in relocation to jurisdictions with robust laws that do not weaken cryptographic systems.