Apple has removed its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) tool from customers in the UK after the government requested access to user data. ADP uses end-to-end encryption, ensuring only account holders can view stored items like photos or documents. The UK government’s request, made under the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA), sought access to data that even Apple cannot currently view. Apple has opposed creating a “backdoor” in its encryption, fearing it could be exploited by malicious actors. As a result, UK users can no longer activate ADP, meaning not all iCloud data will be fully encrypted. Standard encryption allows Apple to access data and share it with law enforcement if warranted. Apple expressed disappointment, stating it has never built a backdoor and remains committed to user data security. Privacy advocates and US politicians have criticized the move, with some suggesting it threatens intelligence-sharing agreements between the US and UK. The IPA order applies globally, and ADP continues elsewhere. Apple hopes to reinstate the feature in the UK in the future. — news from BBC.com
