Apple threatens to disable iMessage and FaceTime users due to new law in the UK

The UK is planning to update its Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) 2016 and make major changes that will affect the work of many tech companies. And they've already come out against it.

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The changes to the Privacy Act will require messengers to turn off their security features when requested by authorities. Right now, this requires a special procedure that can be challenged, but if the amendments are passed, it will be easier for authorities to access user data, including correspondence protected by encryption. The government attributes this to a desire to protect the public from criminals, child molesters and terrorists.

However, many companies are against it. For example, Apple expressed concern that the new changes could jeopardise data security and information privacy. Representatives of the company said that if the innovations are adopted, they will be forced to switch off iMessage and FaceTime in the UK.

WhatsApp and Signal have also strongly opposed the clause in the Internet Safety Bill. The introduction of a workaround for encrypted messages means they are no longer encrypted. Signal has threatened to withdraw from the UK market if the new law is passed.

The law has not yet been passed, it is only in the consultation stage for revisions. Analysts predict that tech companies are unlikely to embrace the changes.

Source: BBC