Apple has taken legal action against the UK government over encrypted data access. The case is being held in secret at the Royal Courts of Justice. The UK Home Office wants access to user data when ADP is enabled. This feature makes sure only users can read their files. Even Apple cannot access them.
Apple says Advanced Data Protection (ADP) is essential for privacy. The UK government argues it needs access to fight national security threats. Civil liberties groups and some US politicians want the case to be open to the public. But Friday’s session of the Investigatory Powers Tribunal took place behind closed doors. It is unclear if future hearings will be open.
US Politicians and Civil Rights Groups Protest
Five US politicians from both parties urged the court to open the case. They argue it has major security implications. Civil rights groups agree. They say banning the media from the hearings hurts global privacy and security.
Sir James Eadie KC, a lawyer who has represented the UK government in many cases, attended the secret hearing.
The Core Issue: Security vs. Privacy
The case focuses on a major debate—privacy rights versus national security. ADP uses end-to-end encryption. This means only the file owner can see their data.
Many services use end-to-end encryption, including:
- Signal
- Apple’s iMessage
The UK government has been pushing for more access. In February, reports showed officials wanted the power to access such data. The Investigatory Powers Act allows them to demand data from tech firms for law enforcement.
Apple’s Stand Against Backdoors
Apple removed ADP from the UK in response. It also took legal action against the demand. Apple says meeting the UK’s request would mean creating a “backdoor.” Critics warn hackers could use this backdoor in the future.
Apple has made its stance clear: “We have never built a backdoor or master key for any of our products or services, and we never will.”
The UK Government’s View
The Home Office says the UK has strong protections in place. They insist privacy is only affected in rare cases when it is necessary.
“The UK has strong safeguards and independent oversight,” a Home Office spokesperson said. “Privacy is only impacted in exceptional cases when necessary and proportionate.”
Global Concerns About Digital Privacy
This case is not the first of its kind. Governments worldwide have pushed for more access to encrypted data. Many argue it is needed to prevent crimes like terrorism and child abuse. But privacy advocates warn this could lead to mass surveillance.
In 2016, Apple refused to help the FBI unlock an iPhone used by a terrorist. The FBI wanted Apple to create a tool to bypass encryption. Apple refused, saying it would set a dangerous precedent. Eventually, the FBI unlocked the phone without Apple’s help.
The Future of Apple’s Fight
Apple’s case in the UK could set a global precedent. If the UK government wins, other nations might push for similar powers. Business and tech companies could face pressure to weaken encryption worldwide.
For now, the legal battle continues behind closed doors. It remains to be seen if the court will allow public access to future hearings.