Germany is expanding the powers of intelligence agencies and enabling offensive cyber operations.
The Bundestag approved a package of reforms that gives Germany's intelligence agencies new and extensive powers. The Federal Intelligence Service (BND) can now conduct counterattacks against foreign cyberattacks, including manipulating data, disabling systems and even destroying physical threats such as drones.
The agencies may also covertly enter homes and businesses for surveillance purposes, but are not authorized to use force against people.
An independent supervisory board will oversee these activities. Opposition MPs have expressed concerns about the broad nature of these powers.