Apple Challenges UK Government’s Order for iCloud Encryption Backdoor

Apple has filed a challenge against a UK government order that demands the creation of a backdoor in iCloud’s encrypted backups. The order, issued in January 2025, is being contested in the Investigatory Powers Tribunal (IPT). This legal action comes after Apple announced it would discontinue UK users’ access to the strongly encrypted version of iCloud storage, known as Advanced Data Protection (ADP). The UK government’s order, based on national security surveillance legislation, aims to force Apple to provide unencrypted data to law enforcement. Despite shutting down the feature in the UK, Apple continues to offer encrypted iCloud backups in other markets. The British government argues that Apple has not fully complied with the order, as it reportedly sought access to data from users outside the UK as well. This case may mark the first time the UK’s encryption-breaking powers are tested before the security services oversight body, though the hearing is likely to be held in secret. Apple expressed disappointment over UK users losing access to this security feature but has not issued a new statement on the legal challenge.