Apple Says iOS Encryption Protects Privacy; FBI Raises Crime Fears

The FBI says Apple encryption software could make it harder for the police to solve crimes. But Apple CEO Tim Cook disagrees, saying this is about people's right to privacy. iStockphoto hide caption

The FBI says Apple encryption software could make it harder for the police to solve crimes. But Apple CEO Tim Cook disagrees, saying this is about people's right to privacy.

The FBI and other law enforcement agencies are up in arms about new technology now available from Apple and soon to be released by Google.

The software encrypts the data on smartphones and other mobile devices so that not even the companies themselves will be able to access the information.

It's a response by technology companies to revelations by former National Security Agency contractor Edward Snowden that the government was monitoring Americans' Internet and cellphone use.

Apple's new iOS 8 operating system for its iPhone and iPad tablets features encryption software so secure that no one not even Apple has the key to it. And it's become a selling point.

In an appearance on PBS's Charlie Rose, Apple CEO Tim Cook said, "people have a right to privacy, and I think that's going to be a very key topic over the next year or so."

FBI Director James Comey says new encryption features allow people "to place themselves beyond the law." Alex Wong/Getty Images hide caption

FBI Director James Comey says new encryption features allow people "to place themselves beyond the law."

It's already become a key topic for FBI Director James Comey. He told reporters recently he doesn't understand why companies would "market something expressly to allow people to place themselves beyond the law."

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Apple Says iOS Encryption Protects Privacy; FBI Raises Crime Fears