Certain metadata processed by service providers are needed to effectively fight crime. Since no EU-wide legal framework exists requiring providers to retain metadata for a reasonable and limited period of time for criminal proceedings, data may no longer exist by the time authorities request them. The divergences between EU Member States’ laws governing the retention of data can hamper criminal proceedings and affect service providers operating across the EU. This initiative is to assess the impact of data retention rules at EU level.
I’m positively disconsolate over the revelation that law enforcement can, at times, be inconvenient.
I fully agree that a universal retention policy for member states would be sensible, but I also suspect they won’t like the retention time I’m suggesting.