Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) is withdrawing its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature for cloud data in the United Kingdom after facing government orders to create a so-called ‘back door’ for user data access. The decision marks a significant change in Apple’s security policies within the region, impacting millions of iCloud users.
Apple’s Official Statement on ADP Removal
Apple confirmed the removal of end-to-end encryption for iCloud Backup, iCloud Drive, Photos, Notes, Reminders, Safari Bookmarks, Siri Shortcuts, Voice Memos, Wallet Passes, and Freeform in the UK.
“Apple can no longer offer Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the United Kingdom to new users, and current UK users will eventually need to disable this security feature,” Apple said in an emailed statement to Seeking Alpha.
Users who have not enabled ADP will no longer have the option to activate it. Meanwhile, existing users will need to manually disable the feature during an unspecified grace period to retain access to their iCloud accounts. Apple emphasized that it cannot automatically disable the feature for them but will provide more guidance soon.
UK Government’s Demand for a ‘Back Door’
The UK government recently pressured Apple to implement a data access mechanism, allowing security officials to retrieve encrypted cloud data. Reports indicate that UK authorities sought access to all iCloud content globally, raising concerns over data privacy and user security.
Apple’s Response to Government Demands
Despite the compliance with UK regulations, Apple remains firm on its global security stance:
“We are gravely disappointed that the protections provided by ADP will not be available to our customers in the UK given the continuing rise of data breaches and other threats to customer privacy.”
“We have never built a backdoor or master key to any of our products or services, and we never will,” Apple stated.
Future of iCloud Security in the UK
While Apple is forced to remove Advanced Data Protection for UK users, the company hopes to reinstate its strongest encryption protections in the future. The move raises concerns among privacy advocates, reinforcing the ongoing global debate over government surveillance vs. user privacy.
As cybersecurity threats continue to rise, Apple’s decision is expected to spark discussions on digital privacy rights and encryption policies worldwide. Investors and technology analysts will be closely monitoring Apple’s next moves in the UK market and beyond.
