Apple is pursuing legal measures to challenge a request from the UK government that would allow access to its customers’ private data when necessary. The American tech giant has filed an appeal with the Investigatory Powers Tribunal, an independent court that can investigate allegations against the Security Service. This marks a significant escalation in the ongoing dispute between a major global tech company and the UK government regarding data privacy.
In January, the Home Office issued a confidential order requiring Apple to provide encrypted data from its users worldwide to UK law enforcement in cases of potential national security threats. While data protected by Apple’s standard encryption can be accessed by the company with a warrant, the firm cannot access or share data secured with its highest level of privacy, known as Advanced Data Protection (ADP). This feature is optional, and it is unclear how many users have opted in.
Recently, Apple decided to withdraw ADP from the UK market instead of complying with the order, which would necessitate creating a “backdoor” for access. The company expressed its commitment to maintaining its security features and voiced disappointment over the situation in the UK. The UK’s directive also drew criticism from the US government, with President Donald Trump likening it to practices seen in China. Tulsi Gabbard, the US head of intelligence, stated she was not informed beforehand about the UK’s request, calling it an “egregious violation” of US citizens’ privacy rights and indicating her intention to investigate whether it violated a legal data agreement between the two countries.
According to the Media, which first reported on Apple’s legal action, the tribunal may hear the case in the coming weeks, although the proceedings might remain confidential. The Home Office has neither confirmed nor denied the existence of the January notice, which is legally required to remain undisclosed.
But a spokesperson said: “More broadly, the UK has a longstanding position of protecting our citizens from the very worst crimes, such as child sex abuse and terrorism, at the same time as protecting people’s privacy.”
“The UK has robust safeguards and independent oversight to protect privacy and privacy is only impacted on an exceptional basis, in relation to the most serious crimes and only when it is necessary and proportionate to do so.” Apple declined to comment.
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