British public oppose secret surveillance powers
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The gist
Poll of 2,000 Brits finds 93% want private online chats, 89% oppose access without court order.
Two-thirds distrust any government with encryption access, signaling public resistance to UK surveillance plans.
Background
The UK government has been expanding surveillance powers under the Investigatory Powers Act, including secret Technical Capability Notices that can compel tech companies to provide access to encrypted communications. This has led to public concern, especially after Apple withdrew Advanced Data Protection for UK users following a secret notice. The polling by CDT and Public First reveals strong public opposition to these measures, with majorities favoring privacy and court oversight.
How it unfolded
- Feb 24, 2025Apple withdrew Advanced Data Protection for UK users after receiving a secret Technical Capability Notice under the Investigatory Powers Act.
- Aug 25, 2026UK government seeks new powers to secretly block risky tech suppliers, as reported by The Record.
- Aug 27, 2026CDT releases polling showing 93% of British adults believe they have a right to private online conversations, and 89% think no one should access messages without a court order.
- Aug 28, 2026Digital Watch Observatory reports on the polling, highlighting that opposition cuts across party lines.
Who’s saying what
- Public
- 93% of British adults believe they have a right to private conversations online, and 89% think no one should access messages without a court order.
- Tech Industry
- Tech companies like Apple have resisted government demands, arguing that encryption backdoors weaken security for everyone.
- Civil Liberties Groups
- Jim Killock of Open Rights Group says the public instinctively know private communication is crucial to a free society, and attacks on encryption harm democracy.
Still unverified
Reports suggest another Technical Capability Notice was issued focusing on British users, but this is unconfirmed.