Apple expands end-to-end encryption to iCloud in a bid to make it safer for vulnerable profiles like celebrities, activists, or journalists

• Apple extends end-to-end encryption to iCloud backups, photos, notes and more.
• The company calls it “Advanced Data Protection.”
• Apple has also introduced physical security keys for two-factor authentication.

Apple introduced end-to-end encryption for iCloud backups on Wednesday. The company calls it Advanced Data Protection. The company already offers the same security feature for various data in its cloud, including health data, credit card and other payment data; Now Apple is extending protection to other services like Photos and Notes.

The feature is called “Advanced Data Protection for iCloud” and will be released to those enrolled in Apple’s beta software program. It will be available in all United States by the end of the year and launch globally in early 2023. Also, Enhanced Data Protection for iCloud is an optional feature that users can enable. After switching on, the function guides you through the process.

Apple said the new security features come as threats to user data become more sophisticated and complex. Let’s look at the new security tools announced by Apple.

security key

Today, more than 95 percent of active iCloud accounts use two-factor authentication. The security keys allow users to use third-party hardware security keys to enhance this protection. According to Apple, this feature is designed for users who face threats to their online accounts due to public profiles, such as journalists and celebrities.

Users who choose security keys need a hardware security key as one of the two factors.

Advanced data protection for iCloud

According to Ivan Krstić, Apple’s Head of Security Engineering and Architecture, Advanced Data Protection is Apple’s highest level of cloud data security, giving users the ability to protect their sensitive information in the cloud. For users who turn on Advanced Data Protection, end-to-end encryption extends to iCloud backup, photos, notes, and more.

Verification of iMessage contact key

iMessage contact key verification allows people exposed to digital threats such as B. Celebrities, activists or journalists, confirm that they only message the person they want to help.

Users who enable iMessage contact key verification will receive automatic alerts when the attacker breaches the cloud server or logs into the same account on another device.

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