Apple files new legal challenge to UK data access order

On August 4, 2026, Apple confirmed it had filed a new legal complaint against the United Kingdom government in a court specialized in objections to the use of covert surveillance powers. The move follows the dispute that began in early 2025, which seeks a “backdoor” access to highly encrypted data.

Apple's new legal action

The company did not detail the contents of the complaint, but the Financial Times reported that it is another challenge to the Home Office’s requirement to obtain access to information protected by its Advanced Data Protection system. This challenge was filed in the same court that reviews appeals against secret surveillance orders.

Reason for the government requirement

The British government, under the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA), has the authority to issue technical notices that can compel companies to provide means to access customer data. The objective, according to an official statement, is to ensure that authorities can access communications when necessary and proportionate to combat terrorism, serious crime, and child sexual abuse.

Apple's stance on backdoors

Apple reiterated, in a statement released the previous year, that it is "deeply disappointed" that it cannot offer the advanced protection feature to new users in the United Kingdom, after its withdrawal in February 2025. The company said it "has never built a backdoor or master key into any of our products or services and never will".

Reaction from privacy groups

Organizations such as Privacy International welcomed the new challenge, stating they are "glad to know Apple is once again challenging the UK’s secret order regime." Liberty, represented by Ruth Ehrlich, highlighted the case’s importance for privacy rights, emphasizing that end-to-end encryption protects personal data such as banking details, health information, and private conversations.

View of the Investigatory Powers Commissioner

Sir Brian Leveson, the Investigatory Powers Commissioner, has already criticized the media’s use of the term "backdoor." He explained that orders such as those discussed are only issued if the Secretary of State deems them necessary and proportionate, and must be reviewed by an independent Judicial Commissioner. Moreover, any data request requires separate authorization under the IPA and is subject to independent oversight.

With information from BBC News.