Question for written answerP-007724-15to the CommissionRule 130Kaja Kallas(ALDE)(13 May 2015)Subject: Encryption software

Encryption software plays an important role in the development of e-government, as it ensures trust in IT systems and protection of personal data, in particular against security breaches. The Estonian ID card, for instance, is highly encrypted for these reasons. However, EU officials and European leaders have made public comments criticising encryption software as an obstacle to the work of law enforcement authorities.

In light of this, the Commission is asked to answer the following:

1.

Can it confirm that the EU internal security strategy will not require changes to the Estonian ID card software, and in particular a lowering of security standards?

2.

Given that creating a so-called ‘back door’ to an encryption key is said by technology experts to generate clear security risks, both for personal communication and for critical infrastructure such as power systems and financial centres, what action does the Commission envisage taking to protect encryption programmes, especially as part of the EU cybersecurity policy and the digital single market strategy?

3.

In its work on the internal security strategy, how is the Commission addressing and analysing the potential impact on e-government, the information society and data protection legislation?