If implemented, the secret order would give the UK access to encrypted backups belonging to any user — not just Brits.

The UK government has demanded to be able to access encrypted data stored by Apple users worldwide in its cloud service. Currently only the Apple account holder can access data stored in this way. The tech giant itself cannot view it.

Government officials in the United Kingdom have reportedly secretly ordered Apple to build a backdoor that would give its authorities access to users’ encrypted iCloud data.