Apple challenges UK government data access demand in new legal filing

Apple has initiated a new legal challenge against the UK government's demand for access to its customers' encrypted data. The complaint, filed last month at the Investigatory Powers Tribunal (IPT), comes a year after the Home Office abandoned a previous request. The UK government issued a new "technical capability notice" (TCN) to Apple, compelling the company to provide law enforcement with access to encrypted iCloud data belonging to British users for cases involving terrorism and child sexual abuse.

Apple is contesting the legality of these TCNs under the UK's Investigatory Powers Act. The company argues that creating a "back door" to its highly encrypted data would compromise user security and make them more vulnerable to breaches. This follows a previous dispute last year where the UK government backed down on a broader demand for access to data from both UK and US customers.

The human rights group Privacy International, alongside Liberty, has also lodged separate complaints against TCNs at the IPT. Privacy International welcomed Apple's challenge, stating that if it relates to undermining the security of iCloud storage, it is crucial for preserving user privacy and security. A case management hearing to discuss the parallel complaints is scheduled for next month.

Apple previously withdrew UK customers' access to its advanced data protection (ADP) programme in January 2025, citing security risks associated with potential government access. The Home Office maintains that the Investigatory Powers Act includes robust safeguards and that such orders are only issued when absolutely necessary.