Apple is threatening to remove iMessage, FaceTime, and other messaging applications and services from U.K. markets following proposed legislation that would allow law enforcement to “scan” encrypted communications.
As reported by the BBC, the U.K. is seeking to update the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) 2016 to expand oversight for messaging services and applications that use encryption. The Online Safety Bill calls for companies to install technology in messaging apps that would allow law enforcement to scan encrypted communication for child-abuse material.
Under the act, the U.K. would require companies to clear security features with the Home Office prior to release. It could also demand that companies disable security features without notifying the public.
Apple joins WhatsApp and Signal in opposing the legislation stating that it will not alter the security of its products to satisfy the laws of one country when doing so would impact security for everyone. Additionally, Apple claims the act would “constitute a serious and direct threat to data security and information privacy” for all users of its products, not just those in the U.K.