At the end of 2022, Apple will release iOS 16.2, which will implement the Enhanced Data Protection functionality. It allows users to send files to iCloud in encrypted format.

What’s wrong

Because the decryption keys will only be stored on the account holder’s smartphone and not on the company’s servers, encrypted files will only be decrypted on users’ devices (and the people they’ve shared those files with). Thus, neither attackers, law enforcement nor Apple itself will be able to access any content uploaded to cloud storage.

it turned out that The FBI is extremely concerned about Apple’s innovation. The Bureau believes that Enhanced Data Protection will hinder effective countermeasures against criminals.

It hinders our efforts to protect the American people from criminal activities ranging from cyberattacks and child abuse to drug trafficking, organized crime and terrorism.
— indicated in the materials of the chapter.

FBI representatives emphasized that the innovation would negatively affect the safety of American citizens, adding that they, along with other law enforcement agencies, should have legal access to electronic products.

Despite numerous disputes between the FBI and Apple in the past (for example, the company refused to unlock a terrorist’s phone at the inquiry’s request), this loophole has allowed law enforcement access to massive amounts of data, including stored photos and messages. in the accounts of criminals using iCloud. Now the US special services will have to look for other ways.