Security News > 2020 > January > No backdoors needed: Apple ditched plans to fully encrypt iCloud backups after heavy pressure from FBI – claim

Apple ditched plans to fully encrypt its iCloud backups two years ago after being pressured by the FBI, it is claimed.

Under this plan, Apple would no longer have the key to unlock encrypted data, meaning it would no longer be able provide decrypted backups of its users to the authorities, even under court order.

Another former Apple employee said it was possible the encryption project was dropped for other reasons, such as concern that punters would accidentally lock themselves out of their backups with Apple unable to help them.

Apple is again under pressure from the FBI to unlock the iPhones used by a Saudi Air Force officer who shot dead three Americans at a naval base in Florida last month.

Apple earlier rejected the characterization that it "Has not provided substantive assistance." Apple and the FBI declined to comment on today's revelations.

News URL

https://go.theregister.co.uk/feed/www.theregister.co.uk/2020/01/21/apple_encrypt_icloud_backups/