Apple Faces Mounting Pressure From UK Government To Grant Spying Access To Encrypted Data Of Users Worldwide

Apple Inc. AAPL has reportedly been asked by the UK to create a backdoor for accessing encrypted data of its users worldwide.

What Happened: According to a report by The Washington Post, security officials in the UK have demanded that Apple develop a backdoor to access all content uploaded by any Apple user worldwide to the cloud.

This undisclosed order, issued last month, seeks a comprehensive capability to view fully encrypted data, rather than just assistance with specific accounts.

The request from the British government is unprecedented among major democracies and could represent a major setback for technology companies. These companies have long resisted becoming tools for government surveillance against their users.

Individuals familiar with the situation, who spoke anonymously due to the sensitive nature of the legal and political issues involved, revealed this information.

Apple did not immediately respond to Benzinga’s request for comment.

Why It Matters: This demand from the UK echoes a long-standing conflict between Apple and government authorities over data encryption. The situation is reminiscent of the 2016 standoff between Apple and the FBI when the agency requested Apple to unlock an iPhone linked to the San Bernardino attacks.

Apple refused, citing privacy concerns, and received support from figures like Mark Cuban, who praised Apple’s stance as a defense against a “slippery slope” of privacy violations.

In recent years, however, Apple has been working more closely with law enforcement. The company has held “Global Police Summit” events to discuss how its products can aid surveillance, suggesting a shift in its relationship with authorities.

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Disclaimer: This content was partially produced with the help of Benzinga Neuro and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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