UK government orders Apple to open a backdoor into all encrypted iCloud accounts

UK demands Apple backdoor to iCloud, sparking privacy concerns.

: The UK government ordered Apple to create a backdoor into encrypted iCloud accounts, enabling access without user consent or court orders. Under the Investigatory Powers Act, this 'technical capability notice' would circumvent Apple's Advanced Data Protection. Apple resists, possibly removing UK security features, with privacy advocates and groups like Big Brother Watch opposing the move. Critics warn this could inspire similar demands worldwide, jeopardizing global privacy standards.

The UK government has mandated that Apple implement a backdoor to access encrypted iCloud accounts globally, bypassing the need for court orders. This order, issued under the Investigatory Powers Act, aims to facilitate data interception but could undermine Apple's Advanced Data Protection, which currently prevents anyone but the validated user from decrypting the account.

Apple's response has been firm, with indications that it may choose to withdraw certain security features for UK users rather than comply with the order. This approach could help Apple gain support from its British customers who stand against such privacy invasions and align with international privacy standards.

Privacy advocates and organizations like Big Brother Watch have raised alarms, viewing the order as a severe violation of privacy rights. There are concerns that complying could set a dangerous global precedent, risking other governments demanding similar access, which could impact worldwide cybersecurity and contravene international privacy laws.

iCloud backdoorprivacy rightscybersecurity