Apple, Google Push Canada To Rein In ‘Secret Orders’ Under Online Safety Bill
Synopsis
Apple and Google have warned Canada’s proposed online safety bill could allow secret government orders forcing tech firms to weaken encryption protections.
Apple and Alphabet are lobbying Canada to rewrite parts of its proposed online safety legislation, warning the bill could pave the way for secret government demands to weaken encryption protections on devices and online services. The companies made the arguments during testimony before Canada’s House of Commons committee reviewing Bill C-22 on Tuesday.
Key highlights
- Apple and Google want judicial oversight added to Canada’s online safety bill
- Tech firms warn the legislation could enable secret encryption backdoors
- Bill C-22 is currently being debated in Canada’s parliament
- Meta has also opposed the proposed legislation
- Apple previously withdrew encrypted backup features from the UK after a similar order
Encryption Fears
The proposed legislation aims to give Canadian authorities faster access to encrypted data when investigating national security threats and criminal activity.
While the bill does not directly require companies to break encryption, tech firms argue it creates a framework where regulators could quietly compel companies to build hidden access points into software or devices.
Google’s Canadian public policy director Jeanette Patell warned secret orders would undermine transparency and public trust.
She said companies should have the ability to disclose how user data is being protected instead of being forced into confidential compliance arrangements.
Industry Pushback
Meta has also opposed the legislation alongside Apple and Google.
Technology companies argue end-to-end encryption is designed so that only users, not even the platform providers themselves, can access protected communications without encryption keys.
The debate mirrors similar clashes in United Kingdom and Australia, where governments have introduced laws aimed at expanding law enforcement access to encrypted data.
UK Warning Signs
Apple referenced its recent dispute with British authorities as an example of the risks involved.
Last year, the company received a secret order in the UK seeking encryption access, prompting Apple to withdraw encrypted cloud backup features from the country.
During Tuesday’s hearing, lawmakers questioned whether Apple could eventually scale back services in Canada if similar requirements were imposed.
Apple executive Erik Neuenschwander avoided directly answering whether the company would leave the market but said Apple hoped lawmakers would amend the bill through continued consultation.
Growing Global Battle
The standoff highlights the growing global tension between governments seeking stronger surveillance powers and technology companies defending encryption as essential for privacy and cybersecurity.
Canadian authorities argue the bill would help security agencies respond faster to threats, while critics warn the legislation risks creating dangerous precedents for digital privacy and government oversight.
FAQs
Q1: What is Canada’s Bill C-22?
Bill C-22 is proposed online safety legislation designed to give authorities greater powers to access encrypted data during investigations.
Q2: Why are Apple and Google opposing it?
The companies fear the bill could allow secret government orders forcing them to weaken encryption protections.
Q3: What is end-to-end encryption?
End-to-end encryption ensures only users can access messages or data, preventing even service providers from viewing the content.
Q4: Has Apple faced similar issues before?
Yes. Apple previously received a secret encryption-related order in the UK and later withdrew some encrypted backup features there.
Q5: Is the bill law yet?
No. Bill C-22 is still being debated in Canada’s parliament.
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I write about markets, money, and the macro forces that move them. Passionate about turning complex economic trends into sharp, easy-to-understand stories. Off the clock, it’s hip hop, rock, reggae -- and a mix of cricket and basketball.
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