Apple v. FBI

Privacy is always being invaded, whether it is from a sibling, friend or the authorities. Our cellphones are the main root of what we like to keep private, therefore, we have passwords. Our passwords are what makes us feel secure to keep our cellphones around even when we are not. This type of security sounds good, but what would happen if the government wanted to get a hold of your locked phone?

In the ongoing legal case between Apple and the FBI, the San Bernardino terrorist, might have some useful information on a locked iPhone 5c that Apple was ordered to unlock by the FBI. Apple refuses an order from the FBI to unlock an iPhone due to the security and privacy policy their company holds. Apple states this is not the first invasion of privacy, “multiple other applications for similar orders,” asked by the government. If Apple did follow along with retaining information of the iPhone, what will stop the government from checking other phones, and having even more surveillance on everyday Americans? Apple would also have to create new software that is against their policy, but endorses the government’s authority. This particular order violates the First and Fifth Amendment by speech and viewpoint discrimination followed by deprivation of Apples liberties, by enhancing their products to fall in favor for the FBI.

Apple is not the only one with the upper hand because the FBI does need certain information that cannot be found anywhere else. The iPhone that belonged to a terrorist that killed 14 innocent people might provide the FBI with some answers, or maybe even prevent another attack. The FBI does not view this as an invasion of privacy, but as a view of the nation’s protection. Josh Renest, the White House spokesperson states “It’s important to recognize that the government is not asking Apple to redesign its product or ‘create a new backdoor’ to its products.” The phone is secured with software that is inaccessible, even for the FBI to hack. Although, the FBI argues that Apple has an easier method to just restore information that is in the cell phone without going through much effort. Not everyone agrees with the FBI.

In my opinion, I do not agree with the FBI. Apple has every right to refuse an order from the FBI to give them authority for their product. The FBI already has enough freedom to do as they please and if granted the accessibility by Apple, what will stop them from doing it again? Apple has a policy that protects their consumers rights and what the government is insisting in is to go against those rights. I do acknowledge the fact that there is information of the shooter, however, what I am aware of is that if this was asked and permitted, these type of orders will not stop. The dispute between Apple and the FBI has led to a huge legal argument that makes Apple look bad. Apple is made to be going against the Americans by the FBI by not complying with orders and I believe it is wrong to do so. It is a private company that should not be forced to follow an order that goes against what they say. I believe in American privacy even if the government does not.