Apple claims UK may have the power to secretly block privacy tools

Apple has strongly criticized the UK government’s proposals to require pre-approval of new security features introduced by tech companies. The proposed amendments to the Investigatory Powers Act would mean that if the UK Home Office declined an update, it could not be released in any other country and the public would not be informed. Apple has called the proposals an “unprecedented overreach” and warned that if enacted, the UK could attempt to veto new user protections globally. The Home Office argues that decisions about lawful access must be made by those who are democratically accountable and approved by Parliament. The proposed changes will be debated in the House of Lords tomorrow.