UK iCloud Backdoor Order Challenged on Civil Rights Grounds

U.K. Government's iCloud Backdoor Demand Faces Legal Challenge

Two prominent civil rights organizations, Liberty and Privacy International, have initiated legal proceedings against the U.K. government. Their challenge stems from a confidential directive issued to Apple, requesting the creation of a backdoor into its end-to-end encrypted iCloud storage.

Complaints Filed Regarding Disproportionate Order

The groups formally lodged their complaints on Thursday, characterizing the order as “unacceptable and disproportionate.” They also expressed concern regarding potential “global consequences,” suggesting the directive’s reach may extend beyond U.K. citizens to encompass international users.

Legal Action Initiated Through Leigh Day

Privacy International’s executive director, Gus Hosein, and civil liberties advocate Ben Wizner, alongside the organizations, have engaged the law firm Leigh Day to contest the decision. The decision in question was made by Yvette Cooper, the Home Department Secretary of State, to issue Apple a technical capability notice (TCN) under the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA).

Information regarding the existence of this secret order surfaced only recently, through media reports last month.

Concerns Over Encryption and Fundamental Rights

“Privacy International and Liberty are concerned that this TCN, or future similar notices, could compromise end-to-end encryption. This encryption is vital for safeguarding privacy and ensuring freedom of expression,” stated a joint press release.

Joining Apple's Existing Legal Challenge

Apple has already launched its own legal challenge against the TCN. The appeal is scheduled to be reviewed by the Investigatory Powers Tribunal (IPT), the body responsible for overseeing complaints against U.K. intelligence services.

The civil rights groups, Hosein, and Wizner assert they are directly affected by the government’s TCN decision. They are requesting their complaints be consolidated with Apple’s ongoing case.

Call for Public Hearing

Furthermore, they are advocating for a public hearing, aligning with previous demands from privacy advocacy groups. The IPT hearing is currently anticipated to take place on Friday, March 14.

The outcome of this legal challenge could have significant implications for the future of encryption and digital privacy, not only within the U.K. but potentially worldwide.