Apple devices now have advanced data protection, which applies end-to-end encryption to everything stored in iCloud. This includes iCloud, Notes, and Photo backups, among others. Previously, data was encrypted, but not end-to-end. The only thing left out of Advanced Data Protection is iCloud Mail, Contacts, and Calendar.

End-to-end encryption means that the key or password required to encrypt or decrypt messages, files, or data is only in the hands of the owner (or on their devices, which are stored locally). That key is never stored on the servers of the company in question. Therefore, no one could decipher the data. Neither the company itself nor any actor who managed to sneak into their systems.

So end-to-end iCloud encryption means that any files generated in Apple apps or devices are locally encrypted and uploaded to iCloud in that state.

Don’t forget the password

One of the drawbacks is the possibility of forgetting or losing Apple credentials. Those are the details needed to log in with your Apple ID. If you forget the password, you are lost.

The requirements to enable end-to-end encryption in iCloud are:

For enable encryption in iCloud you need to go to “Settings”. Later enter the user profile and click on iCloud. Click on the “Advanced data protection” option and then “Activate advanced data protection”.