Apple warns Canada’s lawful access bill could weaken encryption

Apple is urging the Canadian government to amend Bill C22, saying the proposed lawful access rules could create risks for users’ personal data and weaken digital encryption. The company said it supports cooperation with law enforcement, but argued the bill could pressure companies to build access methods that would expose systems to hackers and hostile states. The legislation would make it easier for police and security agencies to obtain private information and intercept communications during criminal and intelligence investigations. It would also require electronic service providers to update their systems to respond to lawful requests and keep metadata for up to one year. Public Safety officials said the bill is intended to modernize lawful access powers and insisted it does not require back doors or systemic vulnerabilities. Minister Gary Anandasangaree’s office said Canada remains committed to strong encryption, while Apple and opposition MPs have called for clearer safeguards and possible amendments.