Starting with the version 27.3 updates, Apple will implement server-side scanning for files and photos shared via iCloud links.
This mechanism targets content shared with the 'anyone with the link' permission, which necessitates disabling end-to-end encryption for that specific object, regardless of the user's Advanced Data Protection status.
The system grants Apple the ability to purge content, terminate user accounts, or coordinate with law enforcement based on their internal definitions of harmful material.
When is the control applied?
The control only applies to files that you share via a link, with the access setting set to “Anyone with the link.” When you use this method, the protection that keeps your data private and inaccessible even to Apple itself—known as end-to-end encryption—is disabled for that file. This applies even to users who have Advanced Data Protection enabled on their account.
The consequences for users
If Apple detects content that it deems harmful, it may take the following actions:
- Removal or deletion of the content in question.
- Blocking the user's Apple account.
- Prohibition of creating new accounts with the user's email or phone number.
- Informing law enforcement authorities, if the company deems it necessary.
What remains unclear?
Apple has yet to clarify exactly what it defines as “harmful content” that will trigger these measures. It also hasn’t been clarified whether the review will apply retroactively to links you created before installing the 27.3 update.
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