Apple to check public iCloud links for harmful content in iOS 27.3

Starting with its next software updates, Apple will examine iCloud photos and files shared through public links. Private sharing isn't part of the announced checks.

Key takeaways

• Apple will check iCloud items shared using ‘Anyone with the link’
• The policy arrives with iOS, iPadOS, macOS and visionOS 27.3
• Publicly linked files lose end-to-end encryption, even with Advanced Data Protection
• Apple hasn't defined ‘harmful content’ or explained its review process

Which iCloud links are checked

Apple is changing how it handles iCloud Photos and iCloud Drive content shared through links anyone can open. According to Apple's support notice, items shared using “Anyone with the link” will be checked for harmful material from version 27.3 onward. The updates are in developer beta, with public release expected in December.

The rule doesn’t cover everything stored in iCloud. It specifically targets public links, not private files or links restricted to invited recipients through “People you choose.”  Although creating an open link is convenient, anyone who has it can access the shared content.

Privacy questions remain

Apple says publicly linked items are no longer encrypted end to end, even if Advanced Data Protection is enabled. That was already true of open sharing; the change is Apple's plan to inspect content. The company hasn't said whether screening will involve automated tools, human reviewers, or both.

Neither has it explained what qualifies as “harmful,” whether older links will be assessed, or how users could challenge an incorrect flag. Apple says it may remove or alter flagged material, suspend accounts or contact law enforcement when necessary. These changes could raise transparency issues, especially concerning potentially falsely-flagged legitimate material.

How to share more privately

If a photo or document is meant for specific people, choose “People you choose” rather than an open link. Review files already shared publicly: in iCloud Drive, use the sharing management options to change access or stop sharing.

Apple's checks don’t guarantee that shared links are safe. If someone sends an unexpected iCloud link, verify the sender; Bitdefender Scamio can help assess suspicious links or accompanying messages.