Story perspectives

Apple Enhances iCloud Security with Advanced Data Protection

2/9/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Apple's Advanced Data Protection (ADP) boosts iCloud security with end-to-end encryption for 23 data categories, including backups and photos.
Users need to opt-in to activate ADP, which disables iCloud.com access by default.
Compatibility requires devices to be updated to the latest software version.
iCloud Mail, Contacts, and Calendar remain unencrypted for interoperability.
The UK government's request for a backdoor threatens this strong security framework.

History

Historical Context

Apple's Advanced Data Protection (ADP) reflects ongoing tensions between privacy and government surveillance, echoing the "Crypto Wars" of the 1990s. During that era, the U.S. government attempted to restrict strong encryption, fearing it would aid criminals. The debate intensified after the Snowden revelations, highlighting the struggle for secure communication against state demands for backdoor access, a conflict that remains unresolved today.

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Story summary

Apple's Advanced Data Protection (ADP) boosts iCloud security with end-to-end encryption for 23 data categories, including backups and photos.
Users need to opt-in to activate ADP, which disables iCloud.com access by default.
Compatibility requires devices to be updated to the latest software version.
iCloud Mail, Contacts, and Calendar remain unencrypted for interoperability.
The UK government's request for a backdoor threatens this strong security framework.

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