Apple Declares it Will Withdraw FaceTime and iMessage from the UK Instead of Compromising Security over New Legislative Proposals
In response to new proposals that could weaken security, Apple has taken a firm stance and announced its decision to remove services like FaceTime and iMessage from the UK.
The UK government is currently seeking to update the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) of 2016. One of the proposed changes involves messaging services having to get approval from the Home Office before introducing security features to their customers.
Presently, the IPA allows the Home Office to demand the disabling of security features without public disclosure. Under the proposed update, such demands would have to be implemented immediately.
In light of these proposed changes, Apple has made it clear that it prioritizes the security and privacy of its users. Rather than compromise on these principles, the company has taken a strong stance and is prepared to withdraw certain services from the UK if the new legislative proposals become law and are acted upon.
At present, the process for handling demands related to security features involves a review, independent oversight, and the possibility for technology companies to appeal before any action is taken.
Due to the confidentiality surrounding these demands, there is limited information available about the number of issued demands and whether they have been complied with.
Currently, numerous messaging services offer end-to-end encryption, ensuring that messages can only be deciphered by the devices involved in sending and receiving them. This encryption ensures heightened privacy and security for users.
'Snooper's charter'
WhatsApp and Signal are among the platforms opposing a clause in the Online Safety Bill that would grant the communications regulator the authority to mandate companies to install technology for scanning encrypted messaging apps and other services for child-abuse material.
Both companies refuse to comply with this requirement, with Signal even threatening to withdraw its services from the UK altogether. Apple has also expressed opposition to the plan.
The UK government has initiated an eight-week consultation on proposed amendments to the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA), which already allows the retention of internet browsing records for 12 months and permits the bulk collection of personal data. The government asserts that the proposed changes are not about creating new powers but rather updating the act to be relevant to current technology.
Apple has consistently opposed the act, which critics initially dubbed the "snooper's charter." In its nine-page submission to the consultation, Apple opposes notifying the Home Office of product security feature changes before release, requiring non-UK-based companies to comply with changes affecting their products globally (like providing a backdoor to end-to-end encryption), and immediate action upon receiving a notice to disable or block a feature, rather than waiting for review or appeal.
Apple states that it would not weaken product security features for all users to cater to the requirements of one country. Additionally, certain changes would necessitate issuing a software update, making secrecy impossible. The proposals are seen as a significant threat to data security and privacy, impacting individuals outside the UK as well.
Cyber-security expert Prof Alan Woodward, from Surrey University, believes that technology companies are unlikely to accept the proposals without putting up a major fight, citing arrogance and ignorance from the government.
The Home Office emphasizes that the Investigatory Powers Act is designed to safeguard the public from criminals, child sex abusers, and terrorists. The ongoing consultation aims to ensure the legislation remains as strong as possible, with no final decisions made yet.
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