A new report from Surfshark reveals a worrying trend in government requests for user data. Since 2020, approximately 190 governments have sought access to data from over 8.4 million user accounts worldwide. The most concerning aspect, according to Surfshark experts, is the growing number of “emergency requests,” which are now seen as a rising trend in data demands.
Surge in Emergency Requests
Emergency requests allow authorities to access sensitive user data without a court order or subpoena, typically in urgent situations like suicides, school shootings, or bomb threats. While these requests can be crucial for public safety, they pose significant risks if misused. Experts warn that if governments interpret “threats” too broadly, it could lead to mass surveillance, the collection of unnecessary data, and a violation of individual freedoms.
In total, 153,000 emergency requests have been made since 2013, with the UK leading globally, accounting for 26% of all such requests. The United States follows with 22%, while the UAE ranks third with 10.5%. These requests are typically directed at major tech companies, especially Google, which accounts for 85% of global emergency data demands.
Growing Demand for Data
Authorities also request user data for criminal investigations, civil, or administrative cases. The number of data requests has skyrocketed in recent years. In 2013, there were 293,000 account requests. By 2020, this number surged to nearly 1.3 million, with over 2.2 million requests in 2022. Experts predict that 2024 will see even higher figures.
The United States leads globally in the volume of data requests, with one account request for every 100,000 people. Several European countries are also prominent in the top 10 for data requests, including Germany, the UK, France, Ireland, Poland, and Switzerland. Singapore, Brazil, and South Korea are also significant contributors.
Meta (Facebook) has been the most targeted company, accounting for 43% of the 12.1 million accounts requested between 2013 and mid-2024. Google follows closely with 39%. Microsoft and Apple receive fewer requests, with 10% and 8%, respectively.
Disclosure Rates: Who Shares Data?
The report also sheds light on companies’ disclosure rates regarding government data requests. Between 2016 and 2022, Apple had the highest disclosure rate, starting at 76% and peaking at 83%. Google’s disclosure rate has risen steadily, reaching 82% in mid-2024, making it the leader in data transparency. Meta’s compliance rate is slightly behind Google’s.
Microsoft, however, has the lowest disclosure rate among the tech giants, providing the least amount of user data since 2018.
How to Protect Your Privacy
With privacy concerns rising, Surfshark recommends a few steps to help users secure their data:
- Use a VPN: Virtual Private Networks encrypt internet connections and mask your real IP address, making it more difficult for third parties to track your online activities.
- Opt for Privacy-Focused Alternatives: Services like Proton offer encrypted email, password managers, and secure calendars, enabling users to minimize reliance on companies like Google.
- Choose a Privacy-Focused Browser: Consider using a browser that prioritizes user privacy to limit the data you share online.
While emergency requests serve an important role in protecting public safety, experts emphasize the need for strict oversight and regulation to prevent misuse and safeguard individual rights.
