Consumer views on Digital Omnibus proposals - keep protections under GDPR and uphold the AI Act

The European Consumer Organisation (BEUC) has voiced concerns regarding the European Commission's Digital Omnibus proposals, specifically addressing them in a letter to the Permanent Representations to the EU. These proposals are being discussed within the Council, and BEUC is highlighting potential risks to consumer rights related to data protection and artificial intelligence. The primary concern revolves around the direction of these proposals, particularly whether they align with the Commission's earlier assurances. BEUC's letter references the Commission's prior statements that the simplification agenda would not result in deregulation. However, the consumer organization suggests that the recent proposals may contradict these earlier assurances. The published document is a letter, referenced as BEUC-X-2025-116 and available as a PDF, which is 74249 bytes in size. The letter focuses on the importance of maintaining robust consumer protections under the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and upholding the principles outlined in the AI Act. The Digital Omnibus proposals are relevant to all European consumers, as they directly impact privacy and personal data protection. Moreover, the proposals' alignment with the AI Act also affects the development and deployment of artificial intelligence technologies within the EU. The core issue is whether the proposed changes will weaken existing safeguards, potentially exposing consumers to increased risks regarding their data and the use of AI. The letter urges the Council to carefully consider the implications of the Digital Omnibus proposals to ensure that consumer rights are protected. The future of digital rights in the EU will depend on how these discussions and related decisions are made.