Fri, 21 Feb 2025

Fri, 21 Feb 2025 Apple pulls data protection tool after UK government security row

Customers' photos and documents stored online will no longer be protected by end-to-end encryption.

* Apple has stopped allowing UK customers to activate Advanced Data Protection (ADP), which provides end-to-end encryption for iCloud data.
* The decision comes after the UK government asked for access to user data through a notice under the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA).
* Apple opposes creating a "backdoor" in its encryption service, and has consistently argued that doing so would compromise security.
* Existing users' access to ADP will be disabled at a later date, although it is not clear how many people have signed up for the service since it became available in December 2022.
* The move has been met with criticism from privacy campaigners, who argue that it undermines online security and privacy for UK-based users.
* US politicians have also expressed concerns about the implications of the UK's request, which could set a precedent for other governments to demand access to user data.
* Apple has stated its commitment to offering high levels of security for personal data, but regrets having to remove ADP from UK customers.
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