UK Drops Apple Backdoor Demand, US Spy Chief Confirms

U.K. Drops Demand for Apple iCloud Access

The United Kingdom has withdrawn its request for special access to Apple’s cloud systems, often referred to as a “backdoor,” following discussions with the Trump administration. This information was conveyed by U.S. National Intelligence Director Tulsi Gabbard.

Negotiations and Agreement

According to Gabbard’s statement on X, the U.K. has conceded its requirement for Apple to create a mechanism granting access to encrypted data belonging to American citizens. This demand was viewed as a potential infringement upon civil liberties. She further indicated her collaboration with President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance during these negotiations.

Background of the Dispute

This resolution marks the latest turn in a prolonged and unanticipated series of events. For months, the British government had been secretly requesting Apple to provide access – essentially a backdoor – to the encrypted data of iCloud users globally, with particular focus on those utilizing Advanced Data Protection (ADP).

ADP is a security feature that users can opt-in to. When activated, it enables end-to-end encryption for iCloud data, ensuring that only the user possesses the key to access their files stored on Apple’s servers.

Concerns and Reactions

The initial report of this legal demand, made under the U.K.’s Investigatory Powers Act 2016 – also known as the Snoopers’ Charter – surfaced in February through The Washington Post. This sparked widespread criticism and strong opposition from privacy and security professionals.

Experts cautioned that granting the U.K. government its request would compromise global privacy standards. It also raised concerns about encouraging similar demands from other governments, potentially extending to technologies beyond Apple’s.

Apple’s Response

Apple’s initial reaction involved temporarily removing ADP availability in the U.K., preventing new users from enabling the feature. The company also informed existing users that they would eventually be required to disable this security measure.

Furthermore, Apple reportedly initiated legal challenges against the backdoor mandate, initially under sealed proceedings, which were later moved to a public hearing.

Official Statements

Neither Apple nor the U.K. Home Office, the governmental body that initiated the demand, responded to requests for comment regarding this development.

Olivia Coleman, press secretary for the U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence, directed inquiries to a February letter addressed to Sen. Wyden and Rep. Biggs.

Apple has consistently maintained its stance against creating backdoors, previously stating to TechCrunch that the company has “never built a backdoor or master key” and has “never will.”

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