Fears New Zealands Proposed Telco Law May Broaden State Powers Over Encrypted Messaging

Illustration of cybersecurity in France, on Jan. 27, 2026. Riccardo Milani/Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty ImagesA free speech advocacy group has warned that a proposed telecommunications bill could erode data privacy and expand government surveillance in New Zealand.In October 2025, the national government introduced the Telecommunications and Other Matters Amendment Bill (Bill 210-1), which mirrors some aspects of Australia’s Online Safety Act.