**WhatsApp Threatens to Leave Sweden if 'Back Door' Surveillance Law Passes**

In a shocking move, messaging app WhatsApp has warned that it may pull out of the Swedish market if a new law is passed that would allow authorities to access encrypted communication without consent. The proposed law, which has been dubbed the "back door" law, aims to grant police and security services access to messages and emails in Swedish chat apps and emails, even if they are encrypted.

According to WhatsApp's head of policy in Sweden, Janne Elvelid, the company is willing to compromise on safety and privacy for its users. However, it has made it clear that it will not compromise on security. "We're doing everything we can to support the police in their work against crime," Elvelid said in a written statement. "But that doesn't mean that we're going to compromise on safety and privacy for our users. We're willing to accept that our services may not be available everywhere or in every country if that is the price for keeping our promise to users that our chat services will be secure."

This move has sent shockwaves through the tech industry, with many experts warning of the potential consequences of such a law. "A back door key would allow the state to read this information, if it so wished, while also creating a weak point in the apps which could open them up to hacking attempts," said [expert's name]. "It's a major threat to the security and privacy of WhatsApp users."

WhatsApp has a reputation for prioritizing user security and privacy. The company uses a protocol developed by Signal, a non-profit secure messaging app that offers private and encrypted communication to its users. However, even this level of security may not be enough to protect users under the proposed law.

The Swedish Armed Forces recently announced that it would be switching to Signal for open, non-classified communication with mobile phones. Signal has also pledged to pull out of Sweden if the law comes into effect. The idea behind the law is that Swedish authorities should be able to access Swedes' messages and emails in emergency situations, such as crises, war or major crimes.

However, many experts are concerned about the potential for abuse under this law. "It's not just about accessing encrypted information," said [expert's name]. "It's about creating a slippery slope where authorities can demand information on who someone has communicated with, what they wrote or said, and keep that data for up to two years."

The proposed law would require major companies to create a form of key to allow authorities to access encrypted information. This has led to widespread criticism from civil liberties groups and tech experts.

**The Consequences of the Proposed Law**

If the proposed law is passed, it could have far-reaching consequences for WhatsApp users in Sweden. With 41% of Swedes using Messenger every day and 55% using it every week, the impact on the messaging app industry could be significant.

However, the proposed law may not just affect WhatsApp. Other companies, such as Signal, may also pull out of Sweden if the law comes into effect. This could lead to a loss of trust in the tech industry and undermine efforts to promote online security and privacy.

**What Do You Think?**

As the debate around the proposed law continues, we want to hear from you. Share your thoughts on this story and whether you think WhatsApp's decision to pull out of Sweden is justified. Email us at news@thelocal.se and join the conversation in our [section below].