A draft bill by the German government aims to significantly expand the powers of the Federal Intelligence Service (BND) with regard to internet surveillance and cyber operations. The plan is to legalise and expand existing practices at central internet hubs such as DE-CIX in Frankfurt. According to the bill, the BND would be allowed to store and analyse up to 30 per cent of all data traffic, including content, for six months.
In addition, the so-called exploitation of computer networks would be officially permitted, i.e. hacking into the systems of large technology companies such as Google or Meta if they do not cooperate. This is intended to serve as a defence against cyber threats. Critics warn of significant infringements on fundamental rights.