3 April 2024 – Governments worldwide have sought Apple’s assistance in unlocking iPhones for investigative purposes, but the tech giant has consistently prioritized user privacy, denying such requests. Here’s a glimpse into three notable instances where Apple declined to unlock iPhones for government agencies.
In 2016, the US government invoked the All Writs Act to compel Apple to unlock an iPhone 5c belonging to a drug dealer. Despite a court ruling, Apple stood firm in protecting user privacy, leading to a Brooklyn judge affirming its stance.
Another high-profile case involved the FBI’s request to unlock an iPhone 5s used by a shooter in the San Bernardino attack. Apple refused, emphasizing its inability to compromise the security of encrypted devices and warning against setting dangerous precedents.
Additionally, the FBI has persistently pressured Apple to create a backdoor in iPhones, enabling access for security agencies. However, Apple has consistently rejected this notion, citing concerns about jeopardizing user security and civil liberties.
