The UK government wants Apple to open up users’ encrypted cloud data

The UK government has reportedly issued a Technical Capability Notice (TCN) to Apple, demanding access to encrypted data stored in the company’s cloud service. If enforced, the order would compel Apple to provide access to users’ private data, not only in the UK but globally.

Currently, only Apple account holders can access their encrypted cloud data—even the tech giant cannot decrypt it. However, according to reports from The Washington Post and BBC, the UK’s Home Office is seeking a backdoor into this data under the Investigatory Powers Act 2016.

Ministers argue that gaining access to encrypted data is necessary to protect children, combat criminal activities, and enhance public safety. On the other hand, privacy advocates and tech experts strongly oppose such measures, warning of significant security and human rights risks.

Privacy and security concerns

Critics argue that breaking Apple’s encryption would severely compromise user privacy, jeopardizing sensitive information belonging to journalists, activists, and whistleblowers. Additionally, they warn that any government-imposed decryption capability could be exploited by cybercriminals or even authoritarian regimes seeking similar access.

There are also fears that the UK’s move could set a dangerous precedent, potentially prompting countries like China and Russia to demand similar concessions from Western tech firms.

Impact on advanced data protection

Apple’s Advanced Data Protection (ADP) offers users end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only the owner can decrypt their data. This security feature guarantees that even in the event of a cloud breach, the information remains unreadable. The UK government’s order specifically targets content stored under ADP, undermining Apple’s strict privacy assurances.

Apple has long resisted government efforts to weaken encryption. In written evidence to UK lawmakers, the company argued that the Investigatory Powers Act effectively positions the UK as a global regulator of security technology, potentially conflicting with EU and US data protection laws.

Awaiting further developments

While the Home Office remains tight-lipped, Apple is under immense pressure to comply or resist. The outcome of this confrontation will likely have significant implications for the future of online privacy and security worldwide.