Apple (AAPL) is removing its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) feature in the UK. This move follows reports that the UK government requested full access to users’ encrypted iCloud data. The ADP feature, launched in 2022, offers end-to-end encryption, allowing only users to access their data. In fact, this feature encrypts data in such a way that not even the tech giant can unlock it. Apple stock has risen 36% over the past year but is down 1.83% year-to-date.
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The UK government argues that accessing encrypted data helps fight crime and improve national security. However, Apple has long refused to create any kind of backdoor, saying it weakens security for everyone. The tech giant believes that once a backdoor exists, hackers could exploit it, putting users at risk of cyber threats and data breaches.
How This Change Affects UK Users
As a result, new iCloud users in the UK will no longer have access to Advanced Data Protection. At the same time, the existing users will need to turn off this feature to continue using their accounts.
Despite this change, Apple will still protect services like iMessage, FaceTime, and Health data with end-to-end encryption.
What This Means for Apple
The ability to store personal data on the cloud is a major draw for users. However, by removing ADP in the UK under government pressure, Apple may weaken iCloud security. This shift could leave UK users more exposed to cyber threats.
Pointing to the risks, Professor Oli Buckley, a cybersecurity expert at Loughborough University, said it is “a significant move because it takes away the strongest form of security on iCloud, which offered true end-to-end encryption.”
Since this decision weakens user security, it may also hurt Apple’s sales in the UK. Users who value data privacy could lose trust in the company, damaging its position in the market.
Is AAPL Stock a Buy, Sell, or Hold?
Turning to Wall Street, the analysts’ consensus estimate for Apple is Moderate Buy based on 18 Buy, 11 Hold, and four Sell ratings over the last three months. The average AAPL price target of $250.95 per share implies 2.20% upside potential.
