Apple has officially stopped offering its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature to new users in the UK, with plans to require existing users to disable it in the future. This move follows increasing pressure from UK security agencies, which have pushed for backdoor access to encrypted iCloud backups.
This decision is a major blow to digital privacy, raising concerns about government surveillance, data security, and the future of encryption. But what does this mean for everyday users? Can your private iCloud data now be accessed by authorities?
In this article, we’ll break down Apple’s decision, what data is at risk, and what UK users can do to protect their privacy.
What is Advanced Data Protection (ADP)?
Advanced Data Protection (ADP) is Apple’s strongest security feature for iCloud, offering end-to-end encryption for user data. This means that only the account holder can decrypt their stored files—not even Apple has access.
Key Features of ADP:
- End-to-end encryption ensures that only the user can access their data.
- Protected data types include iCloud backups, photos, notes, voice memos, and more.
- Introduced in 2022 as an optional feature for users who prioritize privacy.
Why Does ADP Matter?
Imagine storing private photos, sensitive documents, or work files in iCloud. With ADP enabled, even if a hacker or government agency requests access, your files cannot be decrypted—they remain completely secure.
Without ADP, however, Apple retains encryption keys, meaning it can access and share your data if requested through a warrant.
Why is Apple Removing ADP in the UK?
The UK government has long opposed strong encryption, arguing that it enables criminals to evade law enforcement. Under the Investigatory Powers Act of 2016 (also called the Snoopers’ Charter), UK authorities have broad surveillance powers, allowing them to demand access to user data.
What Was the UK’s Request?
According to reports, the UK Home Office demanded that Apple grant security services a backdoor to all iCloud backups globally—not just UK users. Instead of complying, Apple chose to disable ADP entirely in the UK, effectively reducing the security of British users’ iCloud data.
Apple spokesperson Julien Trosdorf expressed disappointment over the move, stating:
“We are gravely disappointed that the protections provided by ADP will not be available to our customers in the UK given the continuing rise of data breaches and other threats to customer privacy.”
Apple has repeatedly stated that it will never build backdoors into its encryption systems, but removing ADP in the UK raises serious concerns about government overreach.
What Data is Affected?
While some types of iCloud data remain encrypted by default, other data types will now be accessible to Apple and, with a warrant, to law enforcement.
Data Still Encrypted in the UK:
- Passwords
- Health data
- Payment information
- iMessage logs
Data No Longer Encrypted for UK Users:
- iCloud backups
- Photos
- Notes
- Voice memos
If you store private files, personal notes, or sensitive backups in iCloud, Apple can now access this data and provide it to authorities upon legal request.
How Does This Compare to Other Tech Companies?
Apple is not the only company offering end-to-end encrypted backups. Other tech giants like Google and Meta (WhatsApp) provide similar features, and as of now, both still offer encrypted backups in the UK.
Google still allows Android users to enable encrypted backups, and Meta’s WhatsApp backups remain encrypted. However, if the UK government escalates its demands, these companies could be forced to change their encryption policies as well.
What Can UK Users Do to Protect Their Privacy?
If you’re in the UK and still want strong encryption, here are some alternative steps:
1. Use Encrypted Cloud Storage Services
Instead of iCloud, UK users can switch to privacy-focused cloud storage providers that don’t hold decryption keys:
- ProtonDrive (From the makers of ProtonMail, based in Switzerland)
- Sync.com (Zero-knowledge encryption, based in Canada)
- Tresorit (Enterprise-grade security, based in Switzerland)
2. Backup Data Locally
For maximum security, consider backing up files manually to an external hard drive or encrypted USB device. This ensures your data never touches Apple’s servers.
3. Use a VPN for Added Security
A VPN (Virtual Private Network) encrypts your internet traffic, making it harder for ISPs and governments to track your online activity. Consider:
Final Thoughts: A Major Setback for Privacy
Apple’s decision to remove ADP in the UK is a significant shift in the global debate over privacy vs. government surveillance. While Apple has refused to build a backdoor, this move weakens encryption protections for millions of users.
The Bigger Questions:
- Will Google and Meta eventually be forced to follow Apple’s lead?
- Could other governments pressure Apple to disable ADP in more countries?
- What does this mean for the future of online privacy worldwide?
What do you think? Should governments have the power to access encrypted data, or should user privacy come first? Let’s discuss in the comments!