Apple Considers Withdrawing iCloud Encryption Services from UK Amid Government D

[technest]

Up

2

Down

::

Apple is reportedly contemplating the removal of its Advanced Data Protection feature for iCloud in the United Kingdom. This consideration follows a secretive order from the UK government, issued under the Investigatory Powers Act of 2016, which mandates that Apple provide backdoor access to all encrypted user data stored in iCloud.

The Investigatory Powers Act allows the UK government to compel companies to assist in accessing data for investigative purposes. In response, Apple is evaluating the possibility of ceasing its encrypted storage services in the UK to uphold its global security commitments. This move would mean UK users could still utilize basic iCloud services, but without the enhanced end-to-end encryption that ensures only users have access to their data.

This development has sparked significant concerns among privacy advocates, who argue that creating such backdoors could compromise data security and set a dangerous precedent for government overreach into personal information. Critics warn that weakening encryption standards may erode civil liberties without effectively enhancing security.

Source: MacRumors, https://www.macrumors.com/2025/02/07/could-apple-pull-icloud-services-from-uk/

Topic