Apple Suspends Enhanced Data Protection for UK Users Following Reports of Government Request for Backdoor Access

February 21, 2025 TruthUSA

Apple has ceased offering its highest level of iCloud encryption in the UK in response to reported government demands for backdoor access to user data.

New users in the UK will no longer have access to Apple’s Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature, and existing users will eventually lose access as well, as confirmed by an Apple spokesperson.

The ADP feature provides end-to-end encryption for iCloud storage, safeguarding data like photos, documents, and notes from unauthorized access. Without ADP, certain iCloud data may be exposed to potential access by third parties with proper legal authority.

Reports indicate that the UK government issued a “technical capability notice” to Apple, compelling them to provide access to encrypted user data under the Investigatory Powers Act of 2016, known as the “snoopers’ charter.”

The UK Home Office neither confirmed nor denied the notice, stating they do not comment on operational matters.

The UK government’s opposition to end-to-end encryption is driven by concerns about facilitating criminal activity. In response, the government has introduced an online safety bill with stricter requirements for platforms to mitigate illegal activity risks.

Some critics fear that the bill may limit freedom of speech and drive users to seek alternatives on the dark web, which poses further risks due to its unregulated nature.

Security expert Will Geddes has warned about the dangers of the dark web, highlighting the potential for malware infections when accessing unauthorized sites.

Contributions from Chris Summers and The Associated Press.

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