The European Parliament recently sent a reminder to its lawmakers regarding the appropriate use of communication tools while conducting official business. The email specifically emphasized that lawmakers should prioritize using “Parliament’s corporate solutions,” such as Teams and Jabber, for their communication needs whenever possible. However, if these tools are unavailable or unsuitable for a particular situation, the use of the messaging app Signal is recommended as a secure alternative. This guidance reflects the Parliament’s ongoing efforts to ensure the security and integrity of its communications, particularly in an environment where cybersecurity threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated.
The Parliament’s press service further clarified that Signal is only intended to be used in cases where no equivalent corporate tool is available. In a statement, the press service noted, “The use of Signal is proposed as a safe alternative in cases where no equivalent corporate tool is available.” However, the service declined to provide additional details on the specific security or cybersecurity measures in place, citing the sensitive nature of such information. This approach aligns with standard practices in many organizations, where detailed discussions about security protocols are typically kept confidential to avoid providing potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors.
This move by the European Parliament is not an isolated incident. In 2020, the European Commission issued similar advice to its staff, recommending that they switch to Signal for secure communications. The Commission’s decision was based on Signal’s reputation for providing robust end-to-end encryption and open-source technology, which are highly regarded by cybersecurity experts and privacy advocates. This shift towards more secure communication tools reflects a broader trend within the European Union and other organizations to enhance the security of their digital communications in response to growing concerns about data privacy and cybersecurity threats.
More recently, in 2023, several EU institutions took another significant step to protect their digital security by banning the use of the social media app TikTok on work-related devices. This decision, which applies to approximately 32,000 staff members across the EU, required employees to remove the app from both their official devices and personal devices that have work-related apps installed. The ban was implemented due to concerns about the potential risks associated with using TikTok, particularly in light of its data collection practices and the possibile exposure of sensitive information. This move sparked a wave of similar measures across European capitals, as governments and institutions increasingly recognize the importance of protecting their digital assets from potential threats.
Signal’s popularity among cybersecurity experts and privacy activists stems from its strong focus on security and privacy. The app’s end-to-end encryption ensures that only the sender and the intended recipient can read the messages, making it highly resistant to interception by third parties. Additionally, Signal’s open-source nature allows independent experts to review its code and verify its security, further enhancing its credibility as a reliable communication tool. These features make Signal a preferred choice for individuals and organizations seeking to protect their communications from unauthorized access or surveillance.
In summary, the European Parliament’s guidance on the use of communication tools highlights the growing importance of cybersecurity and data privacy in the digital age. By recommending the use of secure platforms like Signal when corporate tools are unavailable, the Parliament is taking proactive steps to safeguard its communications and maintain the trust of its members and the public. This approach not only reflects the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats but also demonstrates a commitment to transparency and accountability in the use of digital tools. As other organizations and governments around the world grapple with similar challenges, the European Union’s efforts to enhance the security of its communications serve as a model for others to follow.
