Apple’s Encryption Clash with UK Sparks U.S. Investigation

British and U.S. officials have engaged in private talks over concerns that the UK is pressuring Apple (NASDAQ:AAPL) to weaken encryption protections, Bloomberg reported. The discussions follow Apple’s decision to remove its Advanced Data Protection feature in Britain last month, a move seen as a direct response to UK government demands for greater access to user data.

The removal allows Apple to access iCloud backups, including iMessages, in certain cases and provide them to authorities when legally compelled. Previously, end-to-end encryption prevented even Apple from accessing the data.

The encryption debate has long fueled tensions between governments and tech companies. While authorities argue that strong encryption hampers criminal investigations, privacy advocates warn that weakening encryption threatens user security. The UK’s approach has drawn particular scrutiny, with concerns that it oversteps legal agreements between the U.S. and Britain.

U.S. officials are now investigating whether the UK violated the CLOUD Act, which prohibits either country from unilaterally demanding user data from companies operating in the other jurisdiction. Tulsi Gabbard, the U.S. director of national intelligence, confirmed the probe in a letter to lawmakers.

Apple has challenged the UK’s demands, and its appeal will be heard in a closed-door session at London’s High Court on Friday, according to the BBC. The company and Britain’s Home Office have yet to comment on the ongoing dispute.

This high-stakes legal battle could have far-reaching consequences for tech companies and global data privacy regulations, as governments continue to push for access to encrypted communications.