UK contemplates passing new tech law that may force Apple to quit, pull out of the market

Apple has come out strongly opposing the UK government’s proposed amendments to the Investigatory Powers Act (IPA) 2016, which would require pre-approval for new security features introduced by tech firms. The amendments suggest that if the UK Home Office rejects an update, it cannot be released globally, and the public would not be informed. The government aims to update the IPA to balance technological innovation with national security. According to the proposed changes, decisions about lawful access, aimed at protecting the country from threats like child exploitation and terrorism, would be made by democratically accountable entities and approved by Parliament. However, Apple considers this an “unprecedented overreach,” expressing deep concern that the amendments could jeopardize users’ privacy and security. The tech giant argues that if enacted, the UK government could secretly veto new user protections globally, preventing Apple from offering them to customers. Apple had previously warned of potential service withdrawals, including Facetime and iMessage, in response to similar proposals in July 2023. The Home Office maintains its stance, emphasizing the need to balance privacy-focused technology with public safety. The proposed amendments are set to be debated in the House of Lords, with civil liberties groups, including Big Brother Watch, Liberty, Open Rights Group, and Privacy International, expressing concerns about the potential transformation of private companies into extensions of the surveillance state. These amendments come after a review of existing legislation and cover updates related to data collection by intelligence agencies and the use of internet connection records. (With inputs from agencies)