Government issues new data demand for UK Apple users
35 minutes ago Share Save Zoe Kleinman Technology editor Share Save
Reuters
The UK government has issued a new order giving it the right to demand access to the personal data of Apple's British users, the BBC understands. It is the latest development in the ongoing dispute between Apple and the Home Office over data privacy. The UK says it needs to be able to access individuals' private data - when backed by an appropriate warrant - if there is a threat to national security. Apple maintains that privacy is at the heart of its business and says it will not compromise on data protection anywhere in the world. The Home Office has declined to comment.
"We do not comment on operational matters, including for example confirming or denying the existence of any such notices," a Home Office spokesperson said. "We will always take all actions necessary at the domestic level to keep UK citizens safe." As first reported by the Financial Times, the new instruction is understood to replace a previous order stating that the UK authorities needed to be able to access the data of Apple users anywhere in the world, in the event of a national security risk. This infuriated the US administration, with Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard, describing it as a "clear and egregious violation of Americans' privacy and civil liberties". Ms Gabbard said in August the UK had withdrawn its demand. It is possible that the latest order, which does not include Apple customers outside the UK, is designed as a compromise. In the early stages of the row, Apple removed its toughest data protection tool, Advanced Data Protection (ADP), from the UK market and embarked on legal action. A tribunal hearing is still due to take place in January 2026.
Security concerns