Apple pulls encryption in UK after spying demands
Friday, February 21, 2025 at 7:45PM 
Image: Apple
Apple has withdrawn its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature, which provides end-to-end encryption for iCloud backups, from new users in the UK. Existing UK users will be required to disable the feature in the future. This decision follows reports of UK security services demanding backdoor access to encrypted data, raising concerns about user privacy. Apple stated it is "gravely disappointed" that UK customers will lose this security feature, citing the increasing threat of data breaches.
ADP protects iCloud data, including photos, file backups, notes, and voice memos, with encryption that only the user can decrypt. While some iCloud data, like passwords and iMessage logs, remains end-to-end encrypted by default, the removal of ADP leaves other data vulnerable. Apple emphasized its commitment to user security but stated it has never and will never build backdoors into its products. The company is hopeful that ADP will be available again in the UK in the future.
