Apple will begin checking iCloud content shared through publicly accessible links for harmful material, introducing a new content-monitoring policy that affects how users share photos and files.
The change, outlined in a recent Apple support document, will take effect with version 27.3 or later of iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS.
Under the new policy, Apple will be able to access and inspect content shared using the “Anyone with the Link” option in iCloud. The company says the checks are intended to identify harmful material, although it has not publicly defined what qualifies as harmful content.
The announcement raises questions about privacy and content moderation, particularly for users who rely on Apple’s encryption protections when storing and sharing personal information.
What Changes for iCloud Users
Apple’s policy specifically applies to content made available through public sharing links, rather than all files and photos stored in iCloud.
When sharing an item from services such as iCloud Photos or iCloud Drive, users can send a copy or create a shareable link. Links can be restricted to approved recipients through the “People you choose” option or made accessible to anyone who possesses the link.
Starting with the upcoming software updates, Apple will check items shared through the second option for harmful content.
The company also clarified that content shared using “Anyone with the Link” is not protected by end-to-end encryption, even when users have enabled Advanced Data Protection, Apple’s optional feature that extends encryption protections to additional categories of iCloud data. The new monitoring policy does not announce equivalent checks for content shared only with approved recipients or for private files that have not been publicly shared.
End-to-end encryption normally prevents Apple from accessing the contents of protected information. Publicly accessible sharing links operate differently because anyone with the link, including Apple, can access the shared material.
Apple Could Remove Content or Restrict Accounts
Apple says it reserves the right to refuse uploads, remove or delete content, or modify material identified as harmful.
The company may also restrict or disable Apple Accounts, prevent affected users from creating new accounts using associated contact information, and involve law enforcement when necessary.
However, Apple has not explained how the detection system will operate, whether reviews will be automated or involve human moderators, or which categories of content will trigger enforcement.
The lack of detail leaves open questions about how the company will balance preventing harmful material from circulating through iCloud with protecting legitimate user content.
The policy arrives as major technology companies face continuing pressure to prevent the distribution of illegal and abusive material through online storage and messaging services while maintaining strong privacy protections.
The first developer betas of Apple’s version 27.3 operating systems were released in early November, with the updates expected to reach users in December.
For iCloud users, the distinction between public links and restricted sharing will become increasingly important as Apple’s new content checks take effect.
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