Encryption is ‘positive for Britain’

ATTEMPTS to crack down on the sort of encrypted messaging apps used by terrorists could be bad for Britain’s security, the former head of MI5 has warned.

Jonathan Evans said weakening encryption might frustrate terror groups, but it could also have a devastating impact on the country’s cyber-security.

The apps, including Telegram and Whatsapp, allow communication on secure platforms.

Amber Rudd, the Home Secretary, has said internet companies should do more to tackle extremism and singled out encryption as a problem.

But Lord Evans told Radio 4’s Today: “It’s very important that we should be a country in which people can operate securely – important for our commercial interests as well as our security interests, so encryption in that context is very positive.”