Trump Compares UK’s Demand for Apple Data to Chinese Practices

U.S. President Donald Trump has likened the UK’s request for Apple user data to practices in China, citing concerns over privacy. In a recent interview, Trump conveyed his disagreement with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, emphasizing the implications of such demands. Additionally, a review of the legality of the UK government’s actions is underway under the CLOUD Act.

On February 28, U.S. President Donald Trump equated the UK government’s request for Apple to provide user data with practices typically associated with China. During an interview with The Spectator, Trump recounted his discussion with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, expressing his opposition to the request by stating, “I can’t do this.” This marked their first meeting at the White House since Trump assumed office, where they also addressed issues such as Ukraine and trade agreements.

Trump elaborated on the situation by commenting, “that’s incredible. That’s something, you know, that you hear about with China,” highlighting his view on the implications of such requests on privacy. Apple’s recent cessation of a sophisticated encryption feature for UK users was a direct response to the government’s demands for access to user data, which sparked significant debate regarding user privacy and governmental authority. A spokesperson from the Home Office declined to confirm or deny the issuance of such an order.

Additionally, a letter dated February 25 from U.S. Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard indicated that the U.S. government is investigating whether the UK breached the CLOUD Act, which prohibits it from demanding the data of U.S. citizens and vice versa. The Spectator magazine, having significant influence within Conservative circles and previously edited by former Prime Minister Boris Johnson, was acquired by hedge fund founder Paul Marshall last year.

In conclusion, President Trump’s comparison of the UK’s data demands to Chinese practices underscores the tension between national security interests and user privacy rights. As Apple adjusts its security features in response to these demands, ongoing investigations into the legality of such requests may further complicate international relations and regulatory frameworks regarding data privacy. The discourse around user data access continues to evoke significant concern from both political and public spheres.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com