Apple yesterday announced a series of new security technologies for its platform, including the extension of end-to-end encryption to additional iCloud data types. However, Apple has faced criticism from the FBI for this move, saying they are “deeply concerned about the threat posed by end-to-end encryption and user-only encryption.
Apple and the FBI have had many previous disagreements, with the FBI asking Apple in 2016 to build a backdoor into the iPhone to unlock the iPhone used by the San Bernardino shooter, a request Apple rejected, calling it “an unprecedented act that threatens the security of our customers.”
While the FBI was eventually able to unlock the iPhone without Apple’s help (it just didn’t find anything significant on the device), Apple has since redoubled its focus on encryption and concern for user privacy. This week, Apple extended end-to-end encryption to a variety of new iCloud data types, including device backups, iMessage cloud data, photos and more.
As one might expect, the feds aren’t happy with the decision. In a statement sent to The Washington Post, the FBI said they were “deeply concerned” about the threat posed by end-to-end encryption. The FBI also claimed that it would “hinder” its ability to “protect the American people from criminal acts” such as cyber-attacks, violence against children and drug trafficking.
Late Wednesday, the FBI said they are "deeply concerned about the threat posed by end-to-end and user-access-only encryption technologies. This hinders our ability to protect the American people from criminal acts, including cyber attacks and violence against children, as well as drug trafficking, organized crime and terrorism," the bureau said in an e-mailed statement. In this era of cybersecurity and the demand for 'security by design,' the FBI and law enforcement partners need to 'design legitimate access.'"
Apple’s move has been praised by others. The Electronic Frontier Foundation praised Apple for expanding end-to-end encryption and for its decision to stop its plan to perform CSAM scans for iCloud photos.
"Companies should stop the practice of putting bugs in our pockets at the behest of the government and instead focus on protecting their users and human rights. Today, Apple took a big step forward on both fronts. There are a number of implementation choices that will affect the overall security of the new features, and we will push Apple to ensure that the encryption features are as strong as possible. Finally, we hope Apple will take it a step further. Turning on these privacy-protecting features by default will mean that all users' rights are protected."
