[bakuninsbart]

In general, yes, and I think Germans are (at least in theory) much more protective of their data than others. Nonetheless, every government since the late 00s has been trying to push this through in one form or another.

I suspect there is heavy lobbying from within the professional bureaucracy (including police and IC) for this. Possibly also diplomatic pressure from countries like the US.

[moffkalast]

Gestapo always trying to sneak its way back in silently in the background. And it's not just Germany either, it's quite annoying how backsliding into an anti-democratic surveillance state is now the default and needs to be constantly fought.

Perhaps it's "always has been", it's just laughably easy to do with software these days.

[narag]

Don't forget the companies that provide the means to eavesdrop everybody.