Apple to encrypt iCloud backups

Apple is set to encrypt iCloud backups fully, including sensitive data like photos and chat histories. The FBI raised concerns about encryption hindering their investigations, advocating for backdoor access. Additionally, Apple plans to enable physical security keys with iPhones for enhanced account security globally next year.

Apple announced that it would fully encrypt backups of photos, chat histories, and most other sensitive user data in its cloud storage system worldwide. The US Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) responded with concerns over end-to-end encryption hindering their investigative capabilities, requesting ‘lawful access by design’ in the age of ‘security by design’.

Apple also stated that it would make iPhones compatible with physical security keys connected to the phone, allowing consumers to require them for access to their accounts from new devices. This is envisaged to be rolled out worldwide next year.