Apple expands e2e encryption in iCloud and introduces new security features – Tablets and phones – What’s new

Apple is expanding end-to-end encryption in iCloud to 23 types of data. Previously, the encryption technique was available for 14 types of data. iCloud Mail, Contacts, and Calendar data is not yet encrypted with e2e. The company also comes with two new security features.

The fact that iCloud Mail, Contacts and Calendar data is not encrypted is due to this according to Apple because these services must be able to integrate with third-party apps and systems. In addition to these three categories of data included in iCloud, end-to-end encryption will be applied to iCloud Device Backups, Message Backups, iCloud Drive, Reminders, Safari Bookmarks, Assignments, Memo Recordings voicemail and wallet information. Health data, location information and passwords were already eligible for end-to-end encryption.

To enable extended end-to-end encryption, Enhanced data protection must be turned on in the iCloud menu. It is also stated that Apple will no longer be able to access the data once encryption is turned on. From then on, data will only be accessible through user-approved devices. Users will therefore need to set up an alternative recovery method after activating the feature in case they have lost their data.

Advanced Data Protection is available today to iOS users in the United States who also participate in the Apple Beta Software program. The feature will be rolled out more widely in the US later this year. Advanced data protection will also come to iOS users in other countries in early 2023.

In addition to advanced data protection, Apple also offers two other iOS security features. After all, in 2023 it will be possible worldwide to encrypt Apple ID accounts with third-party security keys, such as a YubiKey. And Apple will also add iMessage contact key verification to iOS early next year. This allows iMessage users to make sure they’re only communicating with who they think they’re communicating with. Once the underlying system detects a device accessing messages in iMessage, users who have enabled the feature will see an alert at the bottom of the message window. These users can also open communication via FaceTime, among other things, to verify each other’s identity using a code.