Apple iCloud: The UK government has recently ordered Apple to build a backdoor to reach the global user data stored in its cloud server. The order was issued in January under the UK Investigatories Powers Act, asking Apple to ignore its encryption security. Under this law, the government can issue “Technical Capability Notice” to companies, forcing them to remove encryption, and at the same time, they are also prevented from revealing this order publicly.
Why is Apple’s Advanced Data Protection feature in controversy?
This order of the UK government is associated with Apple’s Advanced Data Protection feature, which was introduced by the company in 2022. This feature makes store data such as backups, photos, notes, reminders, files and messages safe in iCloud from end-to-end encryption. This makes it extremely difficult for governments or hackers to access unauthorized data. Although this feature has been in less discussion till now, but now this encryption has become the center of global debate on security.
Apple has so far opposed efforts to weaken any government’s encryption. The company says that this will threaten the privacy and security of the users. At the same time, the UK administration argues that they need access to encrypted data for national security and criminal investigation.
What to do to keep your iCloud data safe?
Users who want to increase the security of their data can activate the Advanced Data Protection feature on their iPhone, MAC or iPad. To turn it on:
- Open the “Settings” app in your device.
- Tap on your Apple ID on top.
- Choose the “iCloud” option and scroll down.
- Click on “Advanced Data Protection” and follow the on-screen instructions.
Set a trusted recovery contact for future access or download special recovery.
Apple provides detailed information to explain the difference between standard encryption and end-to-end encryption on its website, so that users can decide how much they have to strengthen their safety.
Apple’s response on UK government’s order
So far, Apple has not made any official comment on this order, but the company has strongly opposed such requests before. In March 2024, Apple again reiterated that “the privacy of users and their data protection is our priority.”
Meanwhile, institutions like Privacy International are criticizing this government move. Caroline Wilson Palo, the legal director of the organization, described it as “dangerous interference from the government”. He said, “This order can set a dangerous example and can encourage the oppressive regime to make similar demands worldwide.”
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