Apple to Scan Public iCloud Links for Harmful Content

Apple will begin scanning photos and files shared via public iCloud links for harmful content. The change will take effect in iOS 27.3, iPadOS 27.3, macOS 27.3, and visionOS 27.3. The scanning will apply only to material shared using the “Anyone with the link” option. Items visible only to invited people will not be scanned.

Users can share a photo from iCloud Photos or a file from iCloud Drive as a link, or send a copy. There are 2 options when sharing via a link: “Only people you invite” and “Anyone with the link.” When the second option is selected, anyone who obtains the link, as well as Apple, can view the material. Starting with version 27.3, the company will scan such publicly shared material.

Content shared via a public link is not end-to-end encrypted, even when Advanced Data Protection is enabled. This means Apple can view and scan that material. The company has not yet disclosed what material will be considered harmful or how the scanning will be conducted. The change was developed following calls to strengthen measures against child sexual abuse material on iCloud.

Apple may move, modify, refuse to accept, or delete material it considers harmful. The company may suspend or permanently close the user’s Apple Account. It may also prevent the creation of a new account using the associated phone number and email address. When necessary, it may also contact law enforcement agencies.

The first developer beta of iOS 27.3 has already been released. The update also includes AI-related improvements for Siri, updates to Safari, and a new Apple Health app. The stable version of iOS 27.3 is expected in December 2026. The other 27.3 updates are also scheduled to be released during the same period.