UK and US Hold Private Talks to Resolve Apple Encryption Order
British and American authorities are engaged in private negotiations to address concerns over UK demands that could force Apple to create a "backdoor" to access encrypted data from American users, according to Bloomberg News.
3/17/20251 min read
Context of the Negotiations
Recently, Apple removed its most advanced cloud data encryption feature, known as Advanced Data Protection, in the UK in response to government demands for user data access. This removal allows Apple to access iCloud backups, including iMessages, and provide them to authorities when legally required. With end-to-end encryption enabled, even Apple would not have access to these data.
Implications and Investigations
US authorities are investigating whether the UK has violated bilateral agreements, such as the CLOUD Act, which prevents one country from issuing demands on the data of the other’s citizens. In a letter dated February 25, US National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard stated that the US is reviewing whether the UK government breached such agreements by requiring Apple to provide access to encrypted cloud storage systems.
Court Hearing
A closed-door hearing at the UK High Court is scheduled for Friday to hear Apple's appeal against the UK’s order.
This development highlights the ongoing tension between governments and tech companies over balancing user security with government access to encrypted data.