Apple drops top-level iCloud encryption in UK after government crackdown
Apple pulls plug on Advanced Data Protection for UK users
Tech giant Apple has scrapped its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature in the UK. The move comes after government pressure demanding more access to encrypted iCloud data. ADP, which offers end-to-end encryption for backups, photos, notes and more, will no longer be available to new UK users. Existing users will eventually have to disable it too.
“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 on Friday.
UK government pushes for wider access to your encrypted data
Reports reveal UK officials pressured Apple to loosen encryption safeguards on iCloud, demanding access that would compromise the company’s strong privacy stance. This aligns with the notorious Investigatory Powers Act — the so-called “Snooper’s Charter” — which forces tech firms to weaken encryption for law enforcement.
Privacy experts slam UK’s encryption crackdown
Digital rights campaigners warn that watering down encryption hands hackers and spies the keys to your private life. Jim Killock, Open Rights Group’s Executive Director, blasted the move:
“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.”
What this means for Apple users in the UK
- New users: No access to Advanced Data Protection on iCloud.
- Existing users: Must disable ADP when Apple prompts them.
- Data security: iCloud data remains encrypted, but Apple holds the keys and can hand info to authorities legally.
The global fallout and what’s next
This UK surrender raises red flags about a global erosion of privacy on tech platforms. Governments hunting for “backdoors” into encrypted data are mounting pressure worldwide. Apple previously stood firm during its 2016 showdown with the FBI over iPhone encryption, but now appears to be bending to UK demands.
Meanwhile, other big players like Signal vow to keep encryption locked down. Signal’s President Meredith Whittaker said:
“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.”
For UK users worried about privacy, experts advise exploring alternative encrypted services and limiting what’s stored on iCloud. Apple’s ADP remains active in the US, EU, and Canada — just not in Britain.
Keep an eye on Apple’s official support page for updates on protecting your data and navigating this new security landscape.
