iCloud backups will now be end-to-end encrypted
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iCloud backups will now be end-to-end encrypted
Apple has just made a couple of significant security announcements. The most noteworthy is that iCloud backups will now be end-to-end encrypted.
This is part of a larger security initiatives that Apple is calling Advanced Data Protection which will see the number of data categories being end-to-end encrypted rising from 14 to 23.
Apart from iCloud device backups, other services and data types that will be end-to-end encrypted includes the following:
- Messages backups
- iCloud Drive
- Notes
- Photos
- Reminders
- Safari Bookmarks
- Voice Memos
According to Apple, the only "major" categories not covered by this new initiative are iCloud Mail, Contacts, and Calendars because "of the need to interoperate with the global email, contacts, and calendar systems."
You can see the full list of what's covered under the Advanced Data Protection initiative on this support page.
In addition, Apple also confirmed that it will be dropping its controversial plan to scan iCloud Photos for child sexual abuse imagery.
The plan, which was announced last year, was met with criticism from encryption and privacy experts over fears of creating a surveillance system of sorts.
Apple's Advanced Data Protection feture will be available to US users by the end of the year and will be rolled out globally in early 2023. Interestingly, users in China will also be able to enjoy these enhanced security features.
Source: Apple
