Two prominent US lawmakers have launched a scathing attack on the UK government's recent demand to access encrypted data stored by Apple users worldwide, calling it a "dangerous" move that threatens US security.
Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR) and Congressman Andy Biggs (R-AZ) have written to national intelligence director Tulsi Gabbard, urging her to present the UK with an ultimatum: either withdraw the demand or face "serious consequences."
The UK's request targets content protected by Apple's Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature, which uses end-to-end encryption accessible only to account holders. The demand was issued under the Investigatory Powers Act, which requires companies to provide information to law enforcement agencies.
"While the UK has been a trusted ally, the US government must not permit what is effectively a foreign cyberattack waged through political means," the lawmakers wrote. They warned that complying with the UK's request would expose Americans to potential espionage from China, Russia, and other adversaries.
The politicians emphasized that Apple's encryption software is uniform across all countries. "If Apple is forced to build a backdoor in its products, that backdoor will end up in Americans' phones, tablets, and computers," they cautioned.
Privacy International has labeled the UK's move an "unprecedented attack" on individual privacy. Apple has previously stated it would rather withdraw encryption services from the UK market than comply with such demands, telling Parliament it would "never build a back door" in its products.
The UK government maintains that any data access would be targeted at specific accounts where national security risks exist, requiring proper legal procedures and justification. However, even if Apple withdraws its services from the UK, the Investigatory Powers Act applies globally to any tech company serving UK customers.
If the UK refuses to back down, the US lawmakers suggest reconsidering US-UK cybersecurity arrangements and intelligence sharing agreements, marking a potential strain in the diplomatic relationship between the two allies.