Apple's policy of encouraging employees to merge work and personal iCloud accounts has resulted in some former employees retaining access to confidential documents after leaving the company, reports The Information.

Multiple former employees revealed that sensitive files, including product launch plans, continued to sync to their personal devices via iCloud even after their departure. Some even received notifications of document updates. This lingering access stems from Apple's practice of allowing employees to use their personal Apple Accounts with work iCloud, often merging a 2TB plan with their existing account to avoid managing multiple devices.

While Apple has a managed folder for work files, not all internal documents are automatically stored there, leading to shared files being mixed with personal content. This issue is relevant to Apple's lawsuit against OpenAI, though Apple denies the lawsuit is related to iCloud files, stating it does not pursue legal claims against former employees with accidental document retention. However, previous legal disputes, such as with Rivos and involving Gerard Williams, highlight concerns about Apple's file management and legal strategies concerning former employees.

Former employees suggest Apple's account-wiping processes are insufficient, and this situation contrasts with the company's strong emphasis on privacy and security.