EU Regulation 2021/1232

We do not allow content that sexually exploits or endangers children. To keep our messaging services safe we use technology to detect such content. This includes photo-matching technology which uses ‘hashes’ (unique codes or digital fingerprints) to detect child exploitation imagery. We also use technology that relies on messaging metadata to identify potentially harmful threads. These technologies store files as short digital hashes that can determine whether two files are the same or similar, even without the original image or video, and compare them with our databases to detect potential child sexual abuse material. If the uploaded media is identical or very similar to known hashes in our databases, it is considered likely to be such material. We have different review processes in place to ensure accuracy which include human review before adding hashes to our databases.

We use these technologies on the basis of EU Regulation 2021/1232, which provides for an exemption from the confidentiality obligations regarding messages (Articles 5(1) and 6(1) of the EU ePrivacy Directive (EU Directive 2002/58/EC)). These child safety technologies are limited to the purpose of detecting, removing or reporting content that sexually exploits or endangers children. If we detect such content we will remove it and depending on the severity of the case may block the relevant accounts, terminate or suspend relevant services. In these cases, we provide information in our products on available appeal if the user disagrees with our decision. Users will also be informed that they may complain to the Irish Data Protection Commission (more information is available at here) or to any other supervisory authority and that they also have the right to seek a judicial remedy through a competent court. You can get more information on the processing of your data by visiting our Privacy Policy and more specifically the legal basis in section “Protection of your vital interests or that of another person”.

Relevant information is reported to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), who in turn forwards reports to law enforcement authorities around the world, as appropriate. More information on this can be found by visiting our Privacy Policy “How we promote safety, security and integrity”. You can also get more information on how we respond to legal requests by visiting our Privacy Policy “How do we respond to legal requests, comply with applicable law and prevent harm”.