Encrypted Messaging and Extreme Speech: Policy Directions
Munich: Ludwig-Maximilian Universität (LMU); Center for Digital Dignity (2025), 58 pp.
CC BY-NC
"The report highlights interventions in six main categories, namely: Platform governance; Mitigating digital influence operations; Supporting research; Strengthening fact-checking; Awareness raising and capacity building; Leveraging artificial intelligence responsibly. The recommendations highlight the need for developing approaches that are grounded in lived realities of specific contexts and international human rights standards. They call for close knowledge of diverse and dynamic political and social practices that have emerged around encrypted messaging platforms, which often contradict promises of privacy and secure communication signaled by encryption technology as well as undermine regulatory efforts with the clever use of campaign tactics. These developments have been prominent in the Global South, as this report highlights." (Executive summary, page 4)
Introduction and Context, 6
Mapping Online Encrypted Messaging Services, 14
Overview and Architecture of WhatsApp, 15
Current State of Regulation, 18
Challenges on Online Encrypted Platforms, 26
AI and Online Encrypted Platforms, 34
Case Studies, 35
India -- South Africa -- Brazil
Recommendations, 44
Mapping Online Encrypted Messaging Services, 14
Overview and Architecture of WhatsApp, 15
Current State of Regulation, 18
Challenges on Online Encrypted Platforms, 26
AI and Online Encrypted Platforms, 34
Case Studies, 35
India -- South Africa -- Brazil
Recommendations, 44