"We would be less confidential than Google" Proton threatens to quit Switzerland over new surveillance law

Published: Wednesday, May 14, 2025 at 5:15 pm

Proton Threatens Swiss Exit Over New Surveillance Law

Proton, the company behind popular encrypted email and VPN services, is threatening to leave Switzerland if a new surveillance law is enacted. The proposed amendment to the current law would require VPNs, messaging apps, and social networks to identify and retain user data, a move that Proton CEO Andy Yen calls a "major violation of the right to privacy."

The law, currently in the consultation phase, aims to expand the scope of data retention beyond current requirements for mobile networks and internet service providers. Proton argues that this would force them to compromise their strict no-log policies and weaken their encryption, making them less confidential than even Google, which is based in the United States.

Other Swiss companies, like NymVPN, have also voiced their intention to leave the country if the law passes. The CEO of NymVPN, Alexis Roussel, confirmed to TechRadar that they would do the same. The proposed law has faced significant pushback from political parties and Swiss companies, with some cantons even citing the right to digital integrity as a reason to oppose the rules.

The consultation period ended on May 6, 2025, and the Swiss government is now considering the feedback. Proton's CEO has expressed a willingness to stay if the government adopts "common-sense rules" that allow them to remain competitive. However, the company is prepared to relocate if the law undermines their core principles of user privacy and data security.

BNN's Perspective: This situation highlights the ongoing tension between national security concerns and the fundamental right to online privacy. While governments have a legitimate interest in combating crime and terrorism, overly broad surveillance laws can stifle innovation, damage a country's reputation, and erode user trust in digital services. Finding a balance that protects both security and privacy is crucial, and the Swiss government's decision will be closely watched by the tech industry and privacy advocates worldwide.

Keywords: Proton, Switzerland, surveillance law, VPN, encryption, privacy, data retention, user data, Andy Yen, NymVPN, digital privacy, security, online anonymity, Swiss government, data security, no-log policy, encrypted email, messaging apps, social networks, digital rights.

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