The US director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard recently stated that the UK government has dropped its demand for Apple to offer access to encrypted information on its devices. This move is considered a substantial victory for the technology developer, who uses device security as a key selling point.
Gabbard posted details of the UK move on X on 19th August, stating the decision protects the information of US citizens.
The official explained the UK’s demand for backdoor access to encrypted Apple data was discussed at the highest levels of the US government for several months, including with the president and vice-president. She explained there were concerns the UK’s demand could infringe US civil liberties and other constitutional rights.
If true, the move would be a significant win for Apple, which engaged in a high-profile battle against the UK government’s request. The fight proved somewhat embarrassing for the UK after a tribunal ruled details of the hearing of an appeal Apple launched regarding its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) security feature could be made public.
Apple outlined plans to drop ADP in February to prevent the UK government gaining access to devices. The optional feature means iCloud data is only accessible on specific devices.
Reuters reported a UK government representative offered only a broad response regarding the security and protection of the nation’s people when quizzed on the latest decision.
UK-based civil liberties group Big Brother Watch welcomed the idea of the nation withdrawing its request. Interim director Rebecca Vincent said it is a “step towards protecting the privacy of millions of Apple users”, adding all government bids to break encryption are “a serious threat” to privacy.
Source: Mobile World Live
Image Credit: Apple
