Concerns are rising over a reported UK order compelling Apple to create a backdoor into its iCloud service. Senators Ron Wyden and Andy Biggs have written to Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, cautioning that this demand could compromise American security.
Media reports suggest the UK Home Secretary issued a secret order last month under the Investigatory Powers Act 2016 (also known as the "Snoopers’ Charter"). This order allegedly mandates Apple weaken its iCloud encryption, granting the UK government access to user data. The order reportedly prevents Apple from disclosing its existence, even to Congress.
This demand arrives amidst the UK's increasing efforts to control online speech, particularly regarding immigration. Last August, London's Metropolitan Police Chief even threatened to extradite and imprison US citizens for online posts about UK unrest.
Wyden and Biggs, citing the potential for exploitation by adversaries like China and Russia, urged Gabbard to take action. They argue that a backdoor in Apple products would jeopardize the data of Americans and government agencies alike. The letter highlights the "Salt Typhoon" incident, where Chinese hackers reportedly tapped the communications of high-ranking US officials.
The lawmakers emphasized the imbalance in intelligence sharing between the US and UK, with the UK reportedly benefiting significantly more. They called on Gabbard to reconsider US-UK cybersecurity collaborations if the UK doesn't rescind the order. The letter also questions whether the Trump administration knew about the order before the media reports and seeks clarification on the administration's obligations to inform Congress about such demands.
Gabbard, during her confirmation hearing, expressed concerns about backdoors undermining Fourth Amendment rights and creating vulnerabilities for malicious actors. Wyden and Biggs are now urging her to uphold these principles by issuing an ultimatum to the UK.
