Apple, Google Blast Proposed Police Surveillance Laws

Apple and Google have blasted Canada’s proposed Lawful Access Act, warning it could force tech companies to weaken encryption and create dangerous surveillance backdoors.

Bill C-22, now before a parliamentary committee, would require core telecommunications providers to retain user metadata for up to a year and maintain technical capabilities to help police access information.

Apple said the bill could allow the Canadian Government to force companies to insert backdoors into encrypted products, “something Apple will never do.”

Google also warned the legislation could give authorities secret powers to make providers build or maintain systems for data interception and retrieval.

The backlash is spreading across the tech sector.

Signal has warned it could leave Canada if forced to compromise user privacy, while NordVPN and Windscribe have also raised the prospect of exiting the market. Tailscale said it would challenge any order requiring it to collect new data, weaken encryption or build surveillance access into its products.

The Canadian Government has rejected claims the bill would enable mass surveillance through devices such as smart TVs, home cameras or cars. It says the legislation is designed to give police modern tools to investigate crime.

But privacy experts and tech executives argue the wording is too broad and could expose consumers to cyber criminals. Apple pointed to previous cyberattacks that exploited lawful access systems, warning that once a backdoor exists, it can be used by more than just “the good guys.”

Shopify CEO Tobi Lütke has called for the bill to be scrapped, warning it could damage Canada’s tech industry.