Security News > 2020 > January > Report: Apple Scuttled Encryption Plans for iCloud Backups

Apple previously scuttled plans to add end-to-end encryption to iCloud backups, in part because such a move would have complicated law enforcement investigations, Reuters reports.

Reuters' scoop highlights a behind-the-scenes compromise that explains what happened, with Apple reportedly opting to not use end-to-end encryption for iCloud backups as it faced increasing pressure from the U.S. government to ensure investigators could access user data.

'Legal Killed It'. The decision by Apple to add end-to-end encryption for iCloud backups occurred about two years ago, but the plan was dropped the following year, Reuters reports.

Apple opted for a compromise on iCloud encryption to make the FBI less displeased, but users still have the power to shut off access to their data.

"You can enable automatic, scheduled backups by tapping 'auto backup' and choosing your backup frequency," according to a WhatsApp FAQ. "This will back up your chats and media to your iCloud account. You can choose to include or exclude videos from the backup. The iCloud backup process can take a while to complete, depending on your internet connection and backup size."

News URL

https://www.inforisktoday.com/report-apple-scuttled-encryption-plans-for-icloud-backups-a-13634