Apple has removed its advanced data protection (ADP) feature from the UK, following a dispute with the UK government over encryption and access to user data.

This comes after the Home Office requested access to encrypted iCloud data under the investigatory powers act (IPA), a law that requires leading tech firms to provide information to law enforcement when required.

ADP, which ensures that only account holders can access their stored data using end to end encryption, will no longer be available to UK users, making them more vulnerable to cyber and malware attacks.

From Friday afternoon, those trying to activate the feature received an error notification, while existing users will have their access revoked.

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