Apple Forced to Discontinue Advanced Data Protection Feature in the UK

In a recent development, Apple has made the decision to halt the offering of its advanced data security option for users in the United Kingdom. This drastic action comes in response to reported demands by the government for the technology giant to provide backdoor access to any data stored in the cloud by British users.

The feature in question, known as Advanced Data Protection encryption, has now been disabled for new users in the UK and will eventually be phased out for existing users. Launched towards the end of 2022, this opt-in feature provided end-to-end encryption for iCloud files, photos, notes, and other data when stored in the cloud.

According to sources cited by The Washington Post, British security officials issued a confidential order instructing Apple to create backdoor access to fully encrypted material. This demand stemmed from the Investigatory Powers Act of 2016, commonly referred to as the snoopers’ charter, which grants authorities broad surveillance powers including the ability to compel companies to remove encryption for monitoring purposes.

Expressing disappointment over the situation, Apple stated that it can no longer offer the benefits of Advanced Data Protection in the UK. The company emphasized the importance of protecting customer privacy in light of rising data breaches and other threats.

The “technical capability notice” served to Apple by the UK government has raised concerns about privacy and security implications. The law authorizes British intelligence agencies to conduct hacking operations and collect large volumes of online data, both domestically and internationally.

In response to inquiries, the UK Home Office declined to comment on the specifics of the situation. Apple clarified that while some data in the UK would still be end-to-end encrypted by default, certain features like the iCloud Keychain passwords, Health app information, and communication on iMessage and FaceTime would continue to be protected.

Noted IT professor Mike Chapple pointed out the inherent conflict between security and regulatory compliance faced by technology companies like Apple. When forced to choose between maintaining robust security measures and adhering to government demands, the removal of security features becomes a likely outcome. This delicate balance has broader implications for digital privacy and encryption practices, potentially leading to a scenario where strong encryption tools are compromised, exposing users to various threats.

The case of Apple’s decision to discontinue the Advanced Data Protection feature in the UK underscores the ongoing debate surrounding encryption, surveillance, and individual privacy rights in the digital age.

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