Apple is suing the UK government over a secret order requiring the company to provide access to its customers’ encrypted data in national security cases. The tech giant filed its case with the Investigatory Powers Tribunal, challenging a directive under the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) 2016 that demands companies create “backdoors” for law enforcement.
The dispute began in January, when the UK Home Office issued a Technical Capability Notice (TCN) ordering Apple to share encrypted iCloud data upon request. While Apple can access some encrypted user data with a warrant, its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature provides end-to-end encryption, making it impossible for even Apple to access the information.
Rather than comply, Apple removed ADP from the UK market last week, stating it would never weaken its security measures. The decision has sparked international backlash, with US President Donald Trump comparing the UK’s demand to surveillance practices in China. US intelligence chief Tulsi Gabbard also criticized the move, calling it a violation of Americans’ privacy rights and questioning whether it breaches US-UK data agreements.
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, warn that forcing tech companies to weaken encryption could endanger journalists, activists, and ordinary users worldwide. Cybersecurity experts argue that backdoors created for governments could also be exploited by hackers and hostile states.
The case is expected to be heard in the coming weeks. However, proceedings may remain classified due to national security concerns. The outcome could set a major precedent for digital privacy, government surveillance, and encryption laws globally.
Apple has declined to comment further on the lawsuit.
