Apple has removed its advanced data protection (ADP) tool from customers in the UK after the government demanded “backdoor” access to user data. The tool, which uses end-to-end encryption, will no longer be available to British users.
The move was made after the Home Office served Apple a request under the Investigatory Powers Act, asking for the right to see encrypted data. Apple expressed disappointment and concern over the removal of the security feature, citing potential vulnerabilities to data breaches and threats to customer privacy.
The change affects UK users who will no longer have access to the ADP tool, while existing users must disable the security feature at a later date. However, messaging services like iMessage and FaceTime will remain end-to-end encrypted by default.
Security experts have criticized the government’s approach, stating that it is “incredibly naive” to expect Apple to comply with such demands without compromising its overall security. One expert noted that weakening encryption for one group can make it less secure for everyone else.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/technology/2025/feb/21/apple-removes-advanced-data-protection-tool-uk-government