The Problem With Banning End-to-End Encryption

Encryption is crucial for protecting personal communications and keeping American businesses secure. However, for more than two decades, encryption advocates have been at odds with law enforcement, who argue the technology undermines their ability to investigate crimes. This perspective has gained currency on Capitol Hill, with Congress set to consider legislation that would compel companies to facilitate access to encrypted data for law enforcement—effectively banning the use of end-to-end encryption.

ITIF hosted a discussion on the implications of current legislative proposals, the efficacy and feasibility of creating “backdoors” for law enforcement to access encrypted data, and the impact these requirements would have on law-abiding American citizens and businesses.