Apple Disables Advanced Data Protection in the UK Due to Government Demands
Apple halts its Advanced Data Protection encryption service in the UK, leaving users vulnerable after government demands for backdoor access to data privacy.
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The loss of end-to-end encryption for iCloud backup means Apple would be able in some instances to read user data such as iMessages that would otherwise be protected and pass it on to authorities if legally compelled.
Apple drops key security feature in UK in rebuke over government’s data demand
New York Post·2M·Mostly ReliableThis source is generally reliable but sometimes includes opinion, propaganda, or minor inaccuracies.Leans RightThis outlet slightly leans right.
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.
Apple pulls data protection tool after UK government security row
BBC News·2M·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
The removal of the tool would make users more vulnerable to data breaches from bad actors, and other threats to customer privacy.
Apple removes advanced data protection tool in face of UK government request
The Guardian·2M·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.Leans LeftThis outlet slightly leans left.Apple's highest level of security for iCloud data is set to be removed from iPhones in the UK in a rare move for the tech giant known for prioritizing privacy for its users.
Apple yanks privacy-enhancing feature in UK after facing 'secret' government order
Business Insider·2M·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Apple had previously allowed end-to-end encryption of data on UK devices through its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) tool, but that ended Friday, a spokesperson said in a lengthy statement.
Apple pulls end-to-end encryption in UK, spurning backdoors for gov’t spying
ARS Technica·2M·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.The episode illustrates one of the fundamental flaws in government efforts to undermine encryption.
Apple drops encryption feature for UK users after government reportedly demanded backdoor access
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The decision is "the regrettable consequence" of the Home Office's "outrageous order" to force Apple into weakening security, said Rebecca Vincent, interim director of privacy and civil liberties campaign group Big Brother Watch.
Apple Pulls iCloud Encryption Feature Following UK Government Demands
CNET·2M·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Summary
Apple has withdrawn its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) service in the UK after the government demanded backdoor access to encrypted data. ADP provided end-to-end encryption for iCloud files and user data, meaning only the account holder could access them. With this decision, UK users' data will no longer have the same level of protection, as it can now be decrypted by Apple and the UK government. Apple expressed disappointment over the loss of privacy protections and reaffirmed its commitment to user security in the future, while experts warn of the risks to privacy and security under government pressure.
Perspectives
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