Apple reportedly denies installation of India's state-owned app

Apple has reportedly decided not to follow Indias directive requiring smartphones to come with a state-operated cybersecurity application preinstalled, according to Reuters. The confidential mandate, communicated to smartphone manufacturers last week, has sparked political debate amid concerns that the government could monitor users or access their personal data.

Indian authorities have stated that the app is intended to help users track lost or stolen phones and report fraudulent calls, aiming to reduce scams and oversee the second-hand device market, Reuters noted.

Historically, Apple has resisted preloading either government or third-party apps on its devices, a stance highlighted during its legal dispute with the FBI over unlocking a phone connected to the San Bernardino attack. Accepting the Indian governments requirement would represent a significant change in Apples approach and could undermine user trust. It might also set a precedent for other countries to pursue similar measures.

The Indian directive challenges the long-standing, informal balance between smartphone developers and law enforcement agencies globally. After the FBI withdrew its request to unlock the San Bernardino shooters phonefollowing intervention by Australian cybersecurity firm Azimuth Securitya small market emerged providing hacking services to governments. While high-cost hacking remains limited to those with substantial resources, it is possible, though not widespread. Introducing an official government backdoor, however, could enable more extensive surveillance by nations like India.

Author: Natalie Monroe