- Kyle Chua
Apple Starts Rollout of End-to-End Encryption for iCloud
Apple is making it harder for hackers to access your cloud backups, with the launch of a new security feature.
The Cupertino tech giant announced today it’s rolling out Advanced Data Protection, an optional end-to-end encryption option for iCloud, as TechCrunch reports. The feature prevents your backups from being decrypted on devices that you don’t own and are not signed in to.
Even Apple won’t have the keys to your data, so you’ll have to set up an alternative recovery method if you choose to enable the feature. That also means your data is safe from hackers in the event that the iPhone maker’s servers are breached.
Apart from iCloud backups, Notes and Photos are among the 23 data categories now protected by end-to-end encryption. Previously, only 14 data categories were protected, which includes Reminders, Safari bookmarks, Siri Shortcuts, Voice Memos and Wallet Passes. However, iWork collaboration tools, such as your calendar, contacts and iCloud Mail, aren’t covered due to interoperability requirements.
Advanced Data Protection is now available in the U.S. as part of the Apple Beta Software Program. The feature is slated to be rolled out to all U.S. users before the year ends, with the rest of the world to follow in early 2023.
TechCrunch further notes that to enable the feature, you must activate two-factor authentication for your Apple ID, set a password or passcode on your devices and make sure those same devices are updated to the latest software.
Apple also announced two other security features, alongside Advanced Data Protection: iMessage Contact Key Verification and Security Keys.
iMessage Contact Key Verification lets you verify the identity of the person you’re messaging, preventing state-sponsored spies from snooping on your conversations. Apple said the feature was designed for those “who face extraordinary digital threats,” such as journalists, activists and politicians.
Meanwhile, Security Keys tries to stop unauthorised logins by requiring you to authenticate your credentials using a hardware security key. Hardware keys use Bluetooth, NFC or USB technology to authenticate.
Apple announced it’s rolling out Advanced Data Protection, an optional end-to-end encryption option for iCloud, which provides you with the highest level of protection for your data.
Apart from iCloud backups, Notes and Photos are among the 23 data categories now protected by end-to-end encryption.
Advanced Data Protection is now available in the U.S. as part of the Apple Beta Software Program, with a global launch to follow in 2023.
Apple also announced iMessage Contact Key Verification and Security Keys.