U.S. Lawmakers Alarm over UK’s Backdoor Apple Data Demand
Headline: U.S. Lawmakers Issue Warning over UK’s Secret Order for Apple Backdoor Data
Abstract:
U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Representative Andy Biggs (R-Ariz.) expressed grave concerns over a recent order mandating Apple to weaken the security of its iCloud backup service. This directive, reportedly issued by the UK’s Home Secretary, raises serious questions about privacy rights, national security, and the integrity of the US-UK partnership.
Introduction:
The letter, obtained by Fox News Digital, references reports that the UK has served Apple with a secret order requiring the company to create a vulnerability in its iCloud backup service, allowing the British government to access customers’ encrypted files without their knowledge or consent. This directive was allegedly issued under the Investigatory Powers Act 2016, also known as the "Snoopers’ Charter," which does not require judicial oversight.
Threat to American Security:
Wyden and Biggs argue that this order poses a significant threat to the privacy and security of Americans, as Apple devices and services are used by millions of US citizens. If Apple is forced to create a backdoor, it will undermine the security of American data and expose it to espionage by adversaries such as China and Russia.
Chinese Hacking and the Salt Typhoon Operation:
The letter highlights the recent Chinese hacking operation known as "Salt Typhoon," in which Chinese hackers breached several US telecommunications companies. This incident demonstrates the grave dangers of surveillance backdoors, which can be exploited by foreign adversaries to gain access to sensitive information.
Impact on US-UK Relationship:
The lawmakers emphasize that the US-UK relationship is built on trust, but the UK’s secret order has profoundly breached that trust. They urge the UK to reverse this dangerous policy, or risk jeopardizing US-UK cybersecurity arrangements and intelligence sharing programs.
Questions for DNI Tulsi Gabbard:
The letter addresses specific questions to the newly sworn-in Director of National Intelligence, Tulsi Gabbard. It inquires about whether the Trump administration was aware of the order, and whether it understands the implications of UK law and the CLOUD Act agreement with regard to gag orders.
Conclusion:
Wyden and Biggs conclude by urging Gabbard to demand that the UK withdraw its order or face serious consequences. They emphasize that backdoors lead to a slippery slope that undermines civil liberties and exposes Americans to vulnerabilities.
Additional Points:
- The UK Home Office has declined to comment on the matter.
- Apple does not make different versions of its encryption software for different markets.
- The UK Parliament’s intelligence oversight committee has acknowledged the UK’s significant reliance on US intelligence sharing.
Implications:
- This case highlights the ongoing debate over the balance between national security and privacy.
- It raises questions about the effectiveness of encryption in protecting user data.
- It underscores the importance of strong international cooperation in cybersecurity.
