Apple is contesting a UK government order requiring access to users’ highly encrypted data in a confidential high court hearing. The appeal will be considered by the investigatory powers tribunal, an independent body that reviews cases involving the UK intelligence services.
The dispute stems from an order issued by the Home Office in February under the Investigatory Powers Act. This law allows the government to compel technology companies to provide access to encrypted data when national security is at risk. Apple, however, argues that complying with the request would compromise user privacy and security.
At the core of the conflict is Apple’s Advanced Data Protection (ADP) programme, which secures iCloud-stored files such as photos, notes, and voice memos with end-to-end encryption. This means only the user can access their data, and even Apple cannot retrieve it. Messaging services like iMessage and FaceTime would remain end-to-end encrypted regardless of the ruling.
Apple has strongly opposed weakening encryption, warning that removing ADP would increase the risk of cyber threats and data breaches. The company maintains that creating a “backdoor” would not only grant Apple access to user data but also expose it to law enforcement agencies through legal demands.
Last week, reports emerged that Apple intended to challenge the secret order. The tribunal has now scheduled a closed-door hearing for 14 March, led by its president, Lord Rabinder Singh. The listing does not explicitly name Apple or the UK government, but media reports indicate that these are the involved parties.
The secrecy of the hearing has sparked criticism. Media organisations, including the Guardian and civil society groups, argue that the case should be heard in open court due to its significant public interest. Computer Weekly has led efforts to push for transparency, citing the leaked details of the appeal as justification for a public hearing.
In a February statement, Apple expressed disappointment over the situation. “Enhancing the security of cloud storage with end-to-end encryption is more urgent than ever before,” a spokesperson said. “Apple remains committed to offering our users the highest level of security for their personal data and are hopeful that we will be able to do so in the future in the United Kingdom.”
Apple has repeatedly stated that it has never created a backdoor or master key for its products and will not do so in the future. The company and the Home Office have both declined to comment on the upcoming tribunal hearing.
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