Apple Abandons iCloud Encryption Plan Following FBI Pushback
Apple reportedly scraps plans for end-to-end encrypted iCloud backups after the FBI voices strong objections. The tech giant chooses to avoid further conflict rather than risk legal battles or new anti-encryption legislation.
Apple reportedly abandons its plan to implement end-to-end encryption for iCloud backups after the FBI objects to the move. The company informs the federal agency of its encryption plans more than two years ago but ultimately decides not to move forward with the project.
A former Apple employee reveals that the company does not want to risk public scrutiny for protecting criminals, face lawsuits for locking authorities out of data, or trigger new legislation against encryption. The employee notes that Apple simply decides it does not want to "poke the bear" anymore following a highly publicized legal battle with the FBI in 2016.
While Apple continues to refuse creating a backdoor into iOS software, it still provides lawfully requested iCloud data to authorities. This policy leaves the company in an ongoing standoff with the FBI regarding locked iPhones connected to a recent mass shooting in Florida, even though Apple states it hands over all the data it currently possesses.