Apple has removed its highest-level security feature from the UK market following a standoff with the government over access to user data, marking a significant shift in the ongoing battle between privacy and surveillance.
What happened
On Friday, February 21, Apple disabled its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) tool for UK customers. The feature, which keeps users' iCloud data private even from Apple itself, was switched off at 3:00 PM GMT. Existing users will need to disable the security feature in the coming months, while new users attempting to enable ADP now receive an error message stating it's no longer available in the UK.
What's new
The decision follows the UK government's use of the Investigatory Powers Act to demand access to encrypted user data. While basic iCloud encryption will continue, the removal of ADP means UK users' stored photos, documents, and other data could be accessed by Apple and shared with authorities if legally required. The company maintains that 14 types of sensitive data, including health information and core communication services like iMessage and FaceTime, will remain fully encrypted.
What they're saying
While Apple expressed disappointment in the decision, cybersecurity experts warn this could trigger similar demands from other governments. Privacy advocates argue the move weakens online security for UK users while setting a dangerous precedent for privacy rights globally. The UK Home Office has declined to comment on specific details, citing operational security.
Why it matters
This unprecedented move effectively creates two tiers of privacy protection for Apple users - one for the UK and another for the rest of the world. Security experts warn this could make UK users more vulnerable to data breaches and set a concerning precedent for government intervention in privacy technologies. The timing is particularly significant given the rising threats of cybercrime and data breaches targeting personal information.
The big picture
The clash represents growing tensions between tech companies' privacy promises and governments' surveillance demands. As more personal data moves to cloud storage, the debate over who can access this information - and under what circumstances - becomes important. The decision has sparked concerns among privacy advocates and US politicians, with some suggesting it could affect intelligence-sharing agreements between the US and UK.
The removal of ADP in the UK represents the first time Apple has withdrawn a security feature in response to government pressure, potentially setting a precedent for similar demands from other countries. Child safety advocates have welcomed the move, arguing it could help combat the spread of illegal content, while privacy experts warn it might lead to broader erosion of digital privacy rights.
FAQs
What exactly is changing for UK users?
New users can't enable Apple's strongest data protection, and existing users will eventually lose access. However, basic encryption and security features remain in place.
Will my iPhone still be secure?
Yes. Core security features, including encryption for messages and health data, remain unchanged. This specifically affects additional protection for iCloud storage.
Does this affect Apple users outside the UK?
No. The change only affects UK customers, though privacy experts worry other countries might make similar demands.
