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Apple is taking the unprecedented step of removing its highest-level data security tool from customers in the UK after the government demanded access to user data.
The move comes after the UK Home Office invoked the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA), compelling tech firms to provide law enforcement with access to certain encrypted data. As a result, Apple will disable its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature for UK users, a function that provides end-to-end encryption for iCloud backups.
End-to-end encryption ensures that only the account holder can access stored data such as photos, messages, and documents, preventing even Apple from viewing the information. However, with the UK government’s request, Apple has opted to remove the feature entirely rather than comply with a demand it deems a threat to user privacy.
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Apple’s Stance on Encryption Apple has long resisted government efforts to weaken its encryption protocols, arguing that any backdoor created for authorities could eventually be exploited by cybercriminals. In a statement, the company expressed its disappointment over the UK’s decision.
“As we have said many times before, we have never built a backdoor or master key to any of our products, and we never will,” Apple said. “We remain committed to offering our users the highest level of security for their personal data and hope to do so in the UK in the future.”
As of February 23, 2025, UK users attempting to enable ADP will receive an error message, and those already using the feature will see it disabled at a later date.
Backlash from Privacy Advocates The decision has drawn widespread criticism from privacy experts and digital rights advocates, who argue that weakening encryption will compromise user safety. Professor Alan Woodward, a cybersecurity expert at the University of Surrey, called the move “an act of self-harm” by the UK government.
“All the UK government has achieved is to weaken online security and privacy for UK-based users,” he told the BBC, warning that such a precedent could encourage other governments to make similar demands.
Online privacy expert Caro Robson described Apple’s response as “unprecedented,” noting that few companies have chosen to remove a security feature rather than comply with government demands.
Global Ramifications The controversy has also raised concerns among international policymakers. Two senior US politicians have warned that the UK’s actions could threaten intelligence-sharing agreements between the two countries. Senator Ron Wyden argued that the UK’s demand “creates a dangerous precedent that authoritarian countries will surely follow.”
Meanwhile, WhatsApp head Will Cathcart voiced his opposition on social media, stating, “If the UK forces a global backdoor into Apple’s security, it will make everyone in every country less safe.”
Despite Apple’s decision, privacy advocates fear that the UK government may not stop at this demand. The Investigatory Powers Act gives broad authority to law enforcement to access digital communications, and further regulations could be introduced in the future to expand government oversight of encrypted services.
Balancing Privacy and Security The UK government insists that its push for access is necessary to combat serious crimes, including terrorism and child exploitation. However, critics argue that weakening encryption for law enforcement also exposes users to cyber threats and state surveillance.
The debate over encryption and privacy is likely to continue as governments worldwide seek more oversight of digital communications. Apple’s decision to withdraw ADP in the UK signals its unwillingness to compromise on user security, but the long-term implications for both UK users and global tech policies remain uncertain.
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