A coalition of 109 civil society organizations, cybersecurity experts, and companies has formally urged UK Home Secretary Yvette Cooper to withdraw its demand for Apple to introduce a backdoor into its end-to-end encrypted services.
The open letter, backed by members of the Global Encryption Coalition, highlights that the UK government issued a technical capability notice (TCK) under the Investigatory Powers Act 2016. This notice would compel Apple to create a security vulnerability in its encrypted cloud services, which experts argue would endanger the security of all users, not just those in the UK.
Governments have repeatedly tried to force big tech to introduce backdoors or ban end-to-end encryption. Although encryption doesn’t work every time, it is required to protect customers’ privacy. Several firms like Meta-owned WhatsApp have threatened to quit countries because of this pressure.
Signatories stress that there is no method to grant government access to encrypted data without compromising encryption itself. They warn that such a measure would introduce systemic security flaws, leaving users vulnerable to cyberattacks and eroding trust in digital services.
The letter also raises concerns over the economic impact of the UK’s approach. By compelling companies to weaken security measures, the UK risks driving global firms away from this market, damaging its reputation as a hub for tech innovation.
Experts also raised objections to the UK’s in-house economics. Domestic businesses may suffer as consumers and investors question whether their products have hidden security vulnerabilities.
Researchers also tried to present a human side to the story. The move could disproportionately affect vulnerable communities, including domestic violence survivors, LGBTQ+ individuals, and activists who depend on encrypted communication for their safety.
The letter remains open for additional signatories until February 20, when a final version will be submitted to the Home Office.
The UK government now faces mounting pressure to reconsider its stance. Opponents argue that any move to weaken encryption would jeopardise national security and set a dangerous precedent worldwide.
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