Apple expands privacy protections for users in iOS 8

Earlier this year, Apple explained in detail what can be recovered from locked iOS devices for law enforcement agencies, and what level of request — whether a subpoena, warrant, or national security letter — would be required to turn over information like email content stored on iCloud, plus certain user data from locked iOS devices.

Now, with the release of iOS 8, Apple has expanded encryption and consumer protections against law enforcement searches. In a letter to customers, Apple CEO Tim Cook addresses customer concerns over user data protections, particularly following the recent theft of personal photographs belonging to dozens of celebrities that were stored on iCloud.

Cook discussed several different privacy-related topics and took a big shot at some of Apple’s competitors. It’s great PR and looks to reaffirm Apple’s commitments to its customers. Here are some of the key quotes:

“Two-step verification, which we encourage all our customers to use, in addition to protecting your Apple ID account information now also protects all of the data you store and keep up to date with iCloud.”
“We believe in telling you up front exactly what’s going to happen to your personal information and asking for your permission before you share it with us… When we do ask to use your data, it’s to provide you with a better user experience.”
“Our commitment to protecting your privacy comes from a deep respect for our customers. We know that your trust doesn’t come easy. That’s why we have and always will work as hard as we can to earn and keep it.”