Earlier this year, the United Kingdom government ordered Apple to provide access to encrypted data in the company’s cloud storage service, iCloud. In response, Apple removed its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) system for users in the country, removing the option to store data using end-to-end encryption, and setting a dangerous precedent of privacy violation.
The Internet Society jointly filed a request in a UK court on Wednesday to provide expert evidence on privacy and security threats from secret government orders that require companies to change services to provide user data to law enforcement.
The case challenges the order, known as a Technical Capability Notice, requiring Apple to change certain end-to-end encrypted iCloud backups. The Internet Society and Internet Society UK England Chapter are joined by five other applicants, including the Open Rights Group, encrypted communications services, and industry representatives. The Investigatory Powers Tribunal, the court that investigates government surveillance requests, will consider the application to intervene.
Another broader case brought by NGOs challenging the UK regulation allowing these orders may be combined with Apple’s challenge. The application requests to provide independent, expert evidence on the privacy and security implications in both cases.
This is a crucial legal case for the Internet Society’s mission to protect and promote people’s online privacy and security.
The UK government’s demand jeopardizes the security and privacy of millions globally, undermines the UK tech sector, and sets a dangerous precedent for cybersecurity.
Strong encryption is critical for safeguarding citizens, protecting the digital economy, and ensuring national security. Mandating backdoors undermines these principles and threatens the privacy and security of users worldwide, including vulnerable groups.
Previously, the Global Encryption Coalition led a joint letter to the UK government from more than 200 civil society organizations, companies, and cybersecurity experts calling on the UK government to rescind the order for Apple to create a backdoor for government access to end-to-end encrypted services.
The Investigatory Powers Tribunal will now consider our request to provide facts and arguments to inform and influence the case.
The Financial Times reports that the UK government is seriously considering withdrawing the order against Apple following strong advocacy from civil society, industry, and governments. In the meantime, the case will continue to be heard in the court.
Want to learn more about the importance of strong encryption? Explore encryption resources.
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