Apple will begin scanning public iCloud links for harmful content starting with iOS 27.3, iPadOS 27.3, macOS 27.3, and visionOS 27.3. Images in iCloud Photos and files in iCloud Drive shared via the 'Anyone with the link' option will be made accessible to Apple for content checks. While Apple does not explicitly define harmful content, it may include malware, malicious files, or child sexual abuse material (CSAM), especially given the mention of law enforcement involvement.
Users attempting to upload such content may face account suspension, blocking, or legal action. Only links shared publicly—not those restricted to specific individuals—will be affected. Apple has not clarified whether existing links created before the update will be retroactively scanned.
Additionally, Apple states that content shared publicly will no longer be end-to-end encrypted, even under Advanced Data Protection. The updates are currently in developer beta, with a public release expected in December.
Source: MacRumors · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing