The FBI asked Apple to create a backdoor for the iPhone. Basically, it’s a new operating system that bypasses security features. Apple refused. The FBI got a judge to order it. Apple is still refusing. And the case is likely to establish new lines in the legal world of tech privacy.
In response, Apple CEO Tim Cook sent a letter to customers yesterday. You can read the complete letter here, but the most salient points follow below.
The U.S. government has asked us for something we simply do not have, and something we consider too dangerous to create. They have asked us to build a backdoor to the iPhone.
Specifically, the FBI wants us to make a new version of the iPhone operating system, circumventing several important security features, and install it on an iPhone recovered during the investigation. In the wrong hands, this software — which does not exist today — would have the potential to unlock any iPhone in someone’s physical possession.
The twist in this story that may make you question your position — the phone the FBI wants to hack belongs to one of the shooters in last year’s San Bernadino terror attack.
For more, check out this article by Alice Troung from Quartz.
