How to enable end-to-end encryption in iCloud

With the new iPhone update iOS 16.3, Apple is bringing end-to-end encryption for iCloud to Germany. We explain how you can activate extended data protection on your devices.

Apple users can now download the new iOS update 16.3. With the new version, the company is also bringing a long-awaited new function to Germany: end-to-end encryption for iCloud.

This is end-to-end encryption for iCloud

Apple calls the end-to-end encryption for iCloud “extended data protection”. The new feature aims to provide the highest level of data security and protect most of your iCloud data.

The function is optional. However, when Enhanced Privacy is on, much of your iCloud data, including iCloud backup, photos, and notes, is protected. It also applies to your entire account and all your compatible devices at the same time.

How to enable end-to-end encryption in iCloud

Setting up end-to-end encryption for iCloud is actually very easy. However, the preparations for this can be a little more time-consuming – especially if not all Apple devices are up to date.

Update all Apple devices

Before you can enable end-to-end encryption for your iCloud, you need to make sure that all of your Apple devices are running the latest operating system. If you have older devices connected to your Apple ID that you either no longer use or can’t update to the latest iOS version, you’ll need to remove them from your device list.

To do this, go to “Apple ID” under Settings on your iPhone. All your devices are listed there. With a click you get to the device overview. If you scroll all the way down, you can remove individual devices there.

However, this step is also part of setting up end-to-end encryption. This means Apple directs you to the right place in the process to review your device list.

Set up recovery tools

Next, it is important that you set up appropriate recovery tools for your iCloud. You will also be guided to do this during the setup process for end-to-end encryption.

You can choose between two options. Either you are looking for a trustworthy one Contact who, in an emergency, can give you a code that will enable you to recover your account.

Or you set up a 28-digit one recovery key which you can use along with a trusted phone number and an Apple device to recover your account and data.

Besides, you need that device code for your iPhone or iPad or that password for the Mac you set to protect your device and enable two-factor authentication. If you ever lose access to your account, you’ll need to use one of your recovery methods to recover your iCloud data.

Enable end-to-end encryption in iCloud

If you have met all the necessary requirements, you can now set up extended data protection for your iCloud. You can do this either on your iPhone, iPad or on your Mac.

On the iPhone or the iPad

• Open the Settings app
• Tap your name, then tap iCloud
• Scroll down, tap Enhanced Privacy, then tap Enable Enhanced Privacy

On Mac

• From the Apple menu, choose System Preferences
• Click your name, then click iCloud
• Click on “Extended data protection” and then click on “Activate”
• Follow the on-screen instructions to review your recovery methods and enable advanced data protection

Turning on Enhanced Privacy turns off access to your iCloud data on the web at iCloud.com. This ensures that your data is only available on your trusted devices.

Keep the recovery key for iCloud end-to-end encryption safe

Most importantly, all recovery methods must always be up to date. Because if you don’t update your help contact or recovery key accordingly, you shouldn’t expect help from Apple to access iCloud.

The company specifically warns before setting up end-to-end encryption that the extended data protection means that no other person, not even Apple, will be able to access your data.

This is how you can disable end-to-end encryption for iCloud

Of course, you can also deactivate the extended data protection at any time. Your device securely uploads the necessary encryption keys to Apple’s servers, and your account then returns to standard data protection.

• For iPhone or iPad: In Settings, tap your name, then tap iCloud. Then scroll down and turn off Enhanced Privacy.
• For Mac: In System Preferences, click your name, then click iCloud. Click on “Extended data protection” and then click on “Deactivate”.

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