UK Reportedly Withdraws Demand to Access Encrypted iCloud User Data
The long-running privacy dispute between Apple and the UK may finally be easing. UK Reportedly Withdraws Demand to Access Encrypted iCloud User Data, a move that could mark a major win for digital privacy advocates. According to U.S. intelligence officials, the British government has agreed to step back from its controversial demand targeting Apple’s cloud encryption.
A Major Reversal on Apple iCloud Encryption
Former U.S. Representative Tulsi Gabbard revealed on X (formerly Twitter) that the UK dropped its plans to require Apple to provide a backdoor into iCloud. The demand would have allowed authorities to bypass encryption, raising serious concerns about civil liberties and data security for users worldwide.
Apple Had Resisted UK’s Secret Demand
Sources told the Financial Times that while the order is set to be rescinded, it has not yet been formally withdrawn. The BBC also reported that Apple has not received direct confirmation from either government.
Earlier this year, reports revealed that the UK had invoked its Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) to secretly demand access to encrypted iCloud data. In response, Apple disabled its Advanced Data Protection feature in the UK rather than compromise global encryption standards.
Apple’s Legal Pushback
The British government initially sought to keep its demands confidential. However, Apple filed a legal challenge that forced the Home Office to disclose more details about its request. Privacy groups argue that Apple’s stance helped ensure transparency in a case that could have set a dangerous precedent for user data rights.
What This Means for iCloud Users
If the UK formally withdraws its demand, Apple users in the region could regain access to Advanced Data Protection, bringing them in line with global security standards. More importantly, the move signals that governments may face increasing resistance when attempting to weaken encryption for surveillance purposes.
Post a Comment