Apple has announced that its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature—offering end-to-end encryption for iCloud data—will no longer be available to users in the United Kingdom, following government demands for greater access to encrypted user data.
In a statement released on Friday, the tech giant expressed deep disappointment over the forced rollback of one of its most robust security features, citing concerns over escalating data breaches and threats to user privacy.
“Gravely Disappointed”: Apple Reacts to UK Demands
“We are gravely disappointed that the protections provided by Advanced Data Protection will not be available to our customers in the UK given the continuing rise of data breaches and other threats to customer privacy,” Apple said in a statement.
The change means that new UK users will no longer have access to ADP, which adds end-to-end encryption across a wide range of user data stored in iCloud, including backups, photos, notes, and more. For existing users in the UK who have already enabled ADP, Apple stated that they would eventually be required to disable the feature.
Government Push for Broader Access to Encrypted Data
The rollback follows reports that the British government had pressured Apple to provide broad access to encrypted user data stored on iCloud. According to a report from The Washington Post earlier this month, UK officials demanded a level of access that would undermine Apple’s long-standing commitment to user privacy and security.
Critics argue that this move aligns with the UK’s Investigatory Powers Act, sometimes dubbed the “Snooper’s Charter,” which grants authorities expansive surveillance powers, including the potential to force technology companies to weaken encryption for law enforcement access.
Privacy Advocates Sound the Alarm
Privacy experts and digital rights activists have condemned the UK government’s demands, warning that weakening encryption not only jeopardizes user privacy but also creates vulnerabilities that could be exploited by malicious actors.
Jim Killock, Executive Director of the Open Rights Group, voiced concerns, stating:
“This is yet another step towards eroding end-to-end encryption in the UK. Weakening security under the guise of public safety will only expose millions of users to greater risks from hackers and cybercriminals.”
A Global Precedent?
Apple’s decision has sparked fears that similar demands could spread to other jurisdictions. Governments worldwide are grappling with the balance between privacy and national security, with many seeking increased access to encrypted data for counterterrorism and criminal investigations.
The debate is not new for Apple. In 2016, the company famously clashed with the FBI over unlocking an iPhone linked to the San Bernardino shooting, asserting that creating a “backdoor” would set a dangerous precedent.
What Does This Mean for UK Users?
For UK Apple users, the disabling of Advanced Data Protection means that iCloud data will no longer be fully protected by end-to-end encryption, leaving it potentially accessible to Apple and, by extension, government agencies under lawful request.
Key changes for UK users include:
- New Users: ADP will no longer be available when setting up iCloud.
- Existing Users: Those already using ADP will receive notifications in the coming months, instructing them to disable the feature.
- Data Security: Without ADP, iCloud data is still encrypted, but Apple holds the keys and can comply with lawful data access requests.
Industry Reaction and The Path Forward
Other major tech companies are closely monitoring Apple’s situation in the UK. Many, including Meta, Signal, and WhatsApp, have been embroiled in similar encryption debates, particularly concerning end-to-end encrypted messaging services.
In response to the UK government’s increasing demands, Meredith Whittaker, President of Signal, reaffirmed the company’s stance:
“We will never weaken our encryption. Users globally rely on our platform for privacy, and we will continue to protect that trust at all costs.”
Apple’s Commitment to Privacy
Despite the setback in the UK, Apple remains committed to user privacy. The company continues to offer Advanced Data Protection in other regions, including the United States, the European Union, and Canada, where data privacy laws are more favorable to end-to-end encryption.
For UK users concerned about their data privacy, experts recommend exploring alternative encryption tools or adjusting iCloud settings to limit the amount of sensitive data stored on Apple’s servers.
What’s Next?
The situation underscores the ongoing global battle between privacy rights and government surveillance. Apple’s compliance in the UK may embolden other governments to demand similar concessions, potentially putting end-to-end encryption under increased threat worldwide.
Got concerns about your iCloud security?
Check Apple’s official support page for updates and guidance on protecting your data.
