London: Apple has taken the unprecedented step of removing its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature from UK customers following government demands for access to encrypted user data.
ADP offers end-to-end encryption for iCloud storage, ensuring that only account holders can access their files, including photos and documents.
The move follows a request from the UK Home Office under the Investigatory Powers Act, which compels companies to provide law enforcement with access to encrypted user data.
Apple, warned that removing ADP would increase the risk of data breaches and privacy threats. It also noted that, without ADP, user data stored in iCloud would now be accessible by Apple and could be shared with authorities if presented with a warrant.
At 3 PM on Friday, 21st Feb, new users lost access to the ADP tool, while existing users will be required to disable it at a later date. However, iMessage and FaceTime will continue to use end-to-end encryption by default.
An Apple spokesperson expressed disappointment over the removal of ADP in the UK, citing growing threats to data security. They emphasized Apple’s commitment to user privacy and reaffirmed that the company has never built a backdoor into its products and never will.
Despite the UK government’s stance, Apple remains hopeful that it can restore ADP for UK customers in the future. Home Office has declined to respond to the matter, stating that they do not confirm or deny the existence of such notices.
ALSO READ | Spanish Photographer wins Underwater Photographer of the Year 2025
