Apple has announced the removal of its most advanced cloud encryption feature, Advanced Data Protection (ADP), for users in the United Kingdom. The move comes as a direct response to increasing government pressure demanding access to encrypted user data, marking a significant shift in Apple’s global security stance.
Advanced Data Protection (ADP) is a security feature that extends end-to-end encryption (E2EE) across various categories of iCloud data, including backups, photos, and messages. This ensures that even Apple itself cannot access the content stored by users in the cloud. The feature, first introduced in late 2022, was part of Apple’s broader initiative to enhance privacy and protect user data from cyber threats and unauthorized access.
However, the UK government’s increasing scrutiny over encrypted data services, particularly under the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) 2016, has led to mounting pressure on tech firms to provide backdoor access for law enforcement. British authorities argue that stronger encryption limits their ability to investigate serious crimes, including terrorism and child exploitation. The UK Home Office has been vocal in demanding that companies like Apple maintain lawful access to encrypted content.
Starting Friday, Apple has disabled ADP for new users in the UK. Those attempting to activate the feature now receive an error message. Moreover, existing users will eventually be required to turn off ADP, making their cloud-stored data more accessible to authorities. This marks the first time Apple has reversed its encryption policy in response to government pressure, setting a precedent that may influence similar debates in other regions.
The removal of ADP in the UK raises concerns among privacy advocates who argue that weakening encryption compromises user security. By disabling ADP, Apple leaves sensitive user data more vulnerable to cyber threats, including hacking and unauthorized surveillance. Critics warn that this sets a dangerous precedent where governments can exert pressure on tech companies to weaken encryption standards.
On the other hand, proponents of the government’s stance argue that encrypted data should not serve as a shield for criminals. The UK government insists that law enforcement agencies require access to encrypted data to ensure national security and public safety.
Apple has not indicated whether this policy change will extend to other countries facing similar legal demands. However, privacy advocates fear that this move could embolden other governments to push for more surveillance-friendly policies, ultimately challenging global digital privacy standards.
As the debate over encryption and data privacy intensifies, Apple’s decision in the UK could be the first step in a broader trend of tech companies being forced to comply with increasing governmental oversight.
