Apple Suspends iCloud End-to-End Encryption for UK Users Amid Government Backdoor Demands

Apple has announced that it will no longer offer the Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature for iCloud users in the United Kingdom, a decision that raises significant concerns about data security and privacy.

Apple Discontinues iCloud Data Encryption in the U.K.

In a statement released to TechCrunch, Apple spokesperson Fred Sainz revealed that new users in the U.K. will not have access to the ADP feature, and existing users will eventually need to disable it. This decision comes amidst growing concerns about data breaches and privacy threats.

Concerns Over User Privacy

Apple expressed its disappointment regarding the withdrawal of ADP, stating:

“We are gravely disappointed that the protections provided by ADP will not be available to our customers in the U.K. given the continuing rise of data breaches and other threats to customer privacy.”

The statement emphasized the urgent need for enhanced security measures in cloud storage, particularly with end-to-end encryption.

Government Pressure and Backdoor Concerns

This announcement follows reports that the U.K. government requested Apple to create a backdoor for access to users’ data stored on its cloud servers. This unprecedented move has raised alarm among privacy advocates, who fear it could set a dangerous precedent for other countries.

What is Advanced Data Protection?

ADP allows users to enable end-to-end encryption for their iCloud backups, ensuring that no one, not even Apple or government authorities, can access their data. Key points about ADP include:

• End-to-end encryption for photos, notes, backups, and more (for users who opt-in).
• Health data, messages, and payment information remain encrypted by default for all users.
• Users outside the U.K. can still access ADP without restrictions.

Impact on Current Users

Apple has not clarified how the disabling of ADP will affect existing users who have already activated it. However, the company assures that further guidance will be provided soon.

For users who have enabled ADP, Apple plans to allow a transition period for them to disable the feature if they wish to continue using iCloud.

Expert Opinions

Experts in cryptography have voiced their concerns regarding this development. Matthew Green, a cryptography expert at Johns Hopkins University, encouraged users outside the U.K. to activate ADP:

“If you are not in the U.K., you should turn on ADP now. The more people who use it, the harder it will be to shut off this way.”

Conclusion

Apple maintains its commitment to user privacy, reiterating that it has never created a backdoor for its products and services. As the situation develops, users are urged to stay informed about data protection options available to them. For more information on data protection practices, visit the Apple Privacy Page and check related updates on TechCrunch.