The UK government could retreat in its encryption battle with Apple over demands for backdoor access to user data. Reports suggest pressure from Washington, including US Vice President JD Vance, is forcing a rethink.
Earlier this year, the Home Office ordered Apple to allow law enforcement access to encrypted customer data. However, Apple refused and even pulled its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) service from the UK. The tech giant insists privacy remains a core principle.
Now, sources claim the encryption battle may end in a UK climbdown. The Financial Times reports Whitehall insiders believe the Home Office must find a compromise. One official said, “They are working on a way around it now.”
JD Vance has openly criticized backdoor access, calling it “crazy” due to security risks. He argues that weakening encryption helps hackers and foreign adversaries. Meanwhile, Apple is fighting the UK’s demand in court.
The Investigatory Powers Tribunal initially kept the case secret. Yet, judges later ruled for transparency, revealing Apple’s legal challenge. The company maintains it will never create a backdoor.
ADP, which offers end-to-end encryption, remains available worldwide except in the UK. Ministers argue encryption shields criminals, including child abusers. However, critics warn that undermining privacy harms cybersecurity.
Additionally, the encryption battle could strain US-UK relations. Some fear the dispute might impact trade talks, a key Labour priority. The government wants the UK to attract tech investment, but this standoff risks deterring major firms.
The Home Office has not yet commented. Yet, insiders suggest a policy shift is likely. If the UK softens its stance, Apple may reintroduce ADP. Otherwise, the legal fight will continue.
For now, the encryption battle highlights the tension between security and privacy. As governments push for access, tech firms resist, setting the stage for further clashes.
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