Apple launches new legal action against UK government iCloud access demands

Apple has launched a new legal challenge at the Investigatory Powers Tribunal (IPT) against a UK government demand to create a backdoor to access its encrypted iCloud user data. The US technology company is contesting a Technical Capability Notice (TCN) issued by the Home Office under the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA). The legislation allows authorities to compel companies to grant access to customer data for investigations into terrorism and child sexual abuse.

The latest legal action follows a previous transatlantic dispute over encryption, in which the UK government abandoned its initial demand for access to both British and American customer data and instead issued a revised notice targeting only UK users.

The IPT has notified human rights groups Privacy International and Liberty, which have submitted parallel complaints challenging the lawfulness, necessity, and secrecy of TCNs. Campaigners have requested Apple's claims are heard in public due to significant public interest in privacy and security. A case management hearing to address the combined complaints is scheduled for next month.

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