Apple Ordered to Weaken Encryption for UK Government

[techstack]

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The UK government has reportedly issued a secret order compelling Apple to create a backdoor for accessing encrypted iCloud backups—not just for British users, but for anyone worldwide. Under the UK’s Investigatory Powers Act (aka the “Snoopers’ Charter”), officials have demanded unrestricted access to end-to-end encrypted files without notifying affected users.

Apple’s Advanced Data Protection, introduced in 2022, encrypts iCloud backups so that not even Apple can access them. In response to the order, Apple is expected to disable this feature in the UK rather than comply. However, this wouldn’t resolve the UK’s demand for global access, putting Apple in a difficult position.

If Apple concedes, it could set a dangerous precedent, allowing other governments—including the US and China—to demand similar access. Tech companies like Google and Meta, which also offer encrypted backups, may soon face the same pressure. While UK officials argue that encryption shields criminals from law enforcement, agencies like the NSA and FBI have recently promoted encryption to counter cyber threats from state actors like China.

Apple must now decide whether to fight the order or risk compromising privacy for users worldwide. The outcome could redefine digital security for everyone.

Source: https://www.theverge.com/news/608145/apple-uk-icloud-encrypted-backups-spying-snoopers-charter

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