(EPICSTORIAN) — Apple has discontinued its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature in the United Kingdom after facing government pressure over access to encrypted user data.
Following the organization’s compliance to removal of the disputed features, concerns have been raised among privacy advocates, as Apple had positioned ADP as a crucial layer of protection against cyber threats and unauthorized access.
Security Feature Removed Over UK Data Demands
ADP ensured that only users could access their photos, documents, and other iCloud data—even Apple itself had no access. The UK government recently pushed for a way to bypass that encryption, leading Apple to withdraw the feature instead of complying with potential legal demands.
A company statement expressed disappointment over the development, highlighting the growing risks of data breaches.
“The protections provided by ADP will no longer be available to our customers in the UK, even as threats to customer privacy continue to increase,” the giant tech company stated.
“Strengthening cloud storage security with end-to-end encryption has never been more critical.”
Government Position on Encrypted Data Access
The UK government has declined to confirm whether a Technical Capability Notice (TCN) was issued—an order that could compel companies to grant access to encrypted communications. However, a Home Office representative responded to inquiries, stating:
“We do not comment on operational matters, including confirming or denying the existence of such notices.”
A government source indicated that even if a TCN were issued, access to user data would still require separate authorizations or warrants.
Impact on Apple Users in the UK
Users who had enabled ADP before its removal will need to turn off the feature in the future. Those who had not activated it before the change now receive a notification stating:
“Apple can no longer offer Advanced Data Protection (ADP) in the United Kingdom to new users.”
Concerns have emerged over how this decision affects millions of Apple customers, particularly as cyber threats continue to grow.
Ongoing Global Encryption Debate
The dispute between Apple and the UK government reflects a wider global struggle over encryption. Governments cite national security concerns, arguing that strong encryption can hinder criminal investigations.
Privacy advocates and technology companies counter that weakening encryption exposes users to surveillance, cyberattacks, and unauthorized data access.
The firm has taken a firm position on encryption in previous cases. In 2016, the company refused to unlock an iPhone for the FBI during a terrorism investigation, according to media sources. The latest decision in the UK, however, highlights its continued resistance to mandated access.
Apple reiterated its commitment to user privacy, stating:
“The highest level of security for personal data remains a priority, and we hope to restore these protections in the UK in the future.”
