Apple CEO Tim Cook rejects demand for iPhone unlocking, gets Sundar Pichai’s support

Apple CEO declines government's request to create a software that would unlock the iPhone. Here are top reactions to know

Apple CEO Tim Cook has declined to create a software that would unlock iPhone and give backdoor access to user data

Apple CEO Tim Cook responded to FBI’s order by declining to create a software that would help federal agents unlock the iPhone. The response was delivered in a customer letter posted on the company website.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has warned its customers of privacy and security issues, if it complies with federal government’s order. It states encryption is a tool that allows iPhone to be safe from hackers and criminals who want to steal user data. Apple letter reads “Compromising the security of our personal information can ultimately put our personal safety at risk.”

In the case of San Bernardino shooting, Apple says it has provided FBI with data in it’s possession but it is strictly against opening up its ecosystem for direct access. Edward Snowden, renowned whistleblower revealed NSA’s program which has been using backdoor access to gain control over user data. Eventually users’ private data is ata stake and Apple is very sure on not granting backdoor access just yet.

Apple CEO Tim Cook has got support from an unexpected candidate, Google CEO Sundar Pichai. Sundar Pichai has courted Tim Cook’s view by saying, “Forcing companies to enable hacking could compromise users’ privacy”.

1/5 Important post by @tim_cook. Forcing companies to enable hacking could compromise users’ privacy

— sundarpichai (@sundarpichai) February 17, 2016

2/5 We know that law enforcement and intelligence agencies face significant challenges in protecting the public against crime and terrorism

— sundarpichai (@sundarpichai) February 17, 2016

3/5 We build secure products to keep your information safe and we give law enforcement access to data based on valid legal orders

— sundarpichai (@sundarpichai) February 17, 2016

4/5 But that’s wholly different than requiring companies to enable hacking of customer devices & data. Could be a troubling precedent

— sundarpichai (@sundarpichai) February 17, 2016

5/5 Looking forward to a thoughtful and open discussion on this important issue

— sundarpichai (@sundarpichai) February 17, 2016

He further raised a call for open and thoughtful discussion on this issue. WhatsApp CEO Jan Koum also supported Tim Cook in a Facebook post saying, “We must not allow this dangerous precedent to be set”.

Tags:
Apple Inc