Germany is taking aggressive measures to combat hate speech online, a move that contrasts sharply with the United States' approach. Recent actions include police raids on individuals suspected of posting offensive content, with authorities confiscating electronic devices. CBS' "60 Minutes" accompanied law enforcement during one such raid, providing viewers with a firsthand glimpse into these operations.

German prosecutors interviewed by "60 Minutes" revealed that many citizens are unaware of the extent of these laws, often expressing surprise when informed that their online statements are considered illegal. They defend their actions as protected free speech, but authorities emphasize that free speech has limitations.

Germany's legal framework prohibits speech that incites hatred or is deemed insulting, encompassing Nazi symbols, Holocaust denial, and even online insults. The penalties for violations can include fines, which are often higher for online offenses due to their permanence and wider reach. Repeat offenders may even face imprisonment. The confiscation of devices, particularly smartphones, has proven to be a significant deterrent, as it disrupts people's daily lives.

The laws also target the spread of misinformation, including malicious gossip, violent threats, and fabricated quotes. Re-posting false information is also considered a crime, as authorities maintain that readers cannot always distinguish between original content and re-shared material.

Dedicated units across Germany actively monitor online hate speech, with one unit in Lower Saxony handling thousands of cases annually. This approach to online content moderation has sparked debate, with some, like U.S. Vice President JD Vance, criticizing it as overly restrictive and reminiscent of Soviet-era censorship. This criticism led to a clash between Senator Marco Rubio and CBS host Margaret Brennan, who suggested that free speech contributed to the Holocaust, a claim Rubio strongly refuted.