Computer industry giant, Apple, has withdrawn its Advanced Data Protection (ADP) service for iCloud in the UK after the UK Home Office secretly demanded backdoor access to encrypted data. The decision means UK users will no longer have access to end-to-end encryption for key iCloud data categories, increasing their exposure to cyber threats. Cybersecurity experts criticized the UK government’s actions, warning that backdoors compromise overall security and set a dangerous precedent. ADP remains available in other countries, while UK users who previously enabled it will need to disable it to continue using iCloud.
This development highlights a fundamental weakness of cloud storage for sensitive data and underscores the critical importance of localized encryption. There simply is no better way to secure and protect vital information than with self-contained, encrypted data storage device solutions.
Kanguru Merges with iStorage to Become a Secure Data Storage Powerhouse
In September 2024, Kanguru joined forces with iStorage, the UK’s leading provider of PIN-protected, hardware-encrypted devices. This strategic acquisition unites two industry leaders, blending expertise and innovation to deliver advanced encryption solutions. Together, iStorage | Kanguru offers secure, high-performance alternatives to cloud storage, empowering organizations and individuals with full control over their sensitive data, and unwavering security.
What Does iStorage | Kanguru Offer?
- iStorage PIN Protected, Hardware Encrypted Data Storage Devices - including FIPS 140-3, Level 3 Certified options
- Kanguru Defender external Hard Drives, SSDs and Flash Drives - including FIPS 140-2 Certified options
- Kanguru Remote Management Console (KRMC) for all Defender External Encrypted Devices
- Kanguru Defender internal Self-Encrypting Drives (SEDs) - including FIPS 140-2 Certified
- Non-Encrypted Flash Drives, Hard Drives and SSDs with Digitally-Signed Secure Firmware
- And much more...
The Benefits of Self-Contained Data Storage Over Cloud Storage
Hardware encrypted drives offer superior security and control for sensitive data over storing data in the cloud. Unlike cloud services, which rely on third-party servers and are vulnerable to cyber threats, local devices keep data entirely within the user’s possession. With built-in hardware encryption independent of software, they provide strong protection against hacking, malware, and government-mandated backdoors. Since they can operate offline, they are immune to phishing attacks, ransomware, and cloud service disruptions, ensuring continuous access to data without internet dependency.
iStorage | Kanguru devices generate their own unique encryption keys for every device, using a FIPS Certified Random Number Generator, ensuring that access is entirely exclusive to the user. Unlike large scale cloud storage services, you have complete control over the encryption keys, as they never leave the device. It is virtually impossible for unauthorized individuals to access the data. Even iStorage and Kanguru have no ability to retrieve or access encrypted information stored on these devices. Privacy and security are consummate with iStorage | Kanguru encrypted data storage solutions.
Even beyond security, hardware-encrypted drives offer significant practical and financial advantages. They enable instant, high-speed data access without reliance on cloud availability or internet speeds. Organizations handling sensitive data can easily meet compliance requirements for regulations like GDPR, HIPAA, and FIPS without depending on cloud-based security. Additionally, they eliminate ongoing subscription fees associated with cloud storage, offering a cost-effective, one-time investment. Features like tamper resistance, brute-force protection, and self-destruct mechanisms further enhance data security, making them a highly reliable alternative to the risks associated with cloud storage.
- Complete Data Control
- Stronger Security
- No Backdoors or Government Access
- Offline Protection
- Regulatory Compliance
- Portability and Convenience
- Exceptional Protection Against Data Breaches
- Eliminates Subscription Fees
- Tamper-Resistant Features
iStorage PIN Protected, Hardware Encrypted Data Storage Devices
With backlit, PIN protected, AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption, iStorage datAshur and diskAshur secure drives offer exceptional data security. These top-of-the-line devices utilize FIPS 140-3, Level 3 Certification, tamper-proof and evident design, wear resistant keypads, rugged, shockproof and water-resistant housings and independent user/admin PINs to secure data in any environment.
Kanguru Defender External USB Hardware Encrypted Drives
The Kanguru Defender line of external hardware encrypted flash drives, hard drives and SSDs provide extraordinary encrypted data storage for data security and compliance. With flexibility and options to meet any budget and level of security requirement, Kanguru Defender drives include AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption, FIPS 140-2, digitally-signed secure firmware, a physical write protect switch, cutting-edge endpoint protection and brute-force protections. These easy-to-use, convenient drives can also be remotely managed with Kanguru Remote Management Console (KRMC).
Kanguru Remote Management Console (KRMC)
KRMC is a powerful remote management security platform that elevates administrative capabilities to a whole new level. KRMC offers two options: Hosted, or On-Premise, depending on the demand of complexity and security required. Each option offers 3 pricing tiers, providing flexibility for the type of remote management desired. With KRMC, administrators and Data Security Officers can manage an entire fleet of company Kanguru Defender encrypted drives, managing passwords, locating devices, changing permissions, and even disabling lost or stolen drives.
All sensitive data remains physically-confined on the encrypted device itself. KRMC simply allows the devices to be managed within the organization, and administrators cannot access the information.
Kanguru Defender Internal Self-Encrypted Drives (SEDs)
The Defender line of Opal-compliant internal SEDs give organizations a leading edge for encrypting data on computers, laptops, and tablets. With huge advantages of hardware encryption over software encryption, Defender SEDs protect data, as well as the operating systems by locking down all data at rest. Defender SEDs provide high-performance NVMe speed and technology, along with FIPS 140-2 options, and digitally-signed secure firmware.
Non-Encrypted Flash Drives, Hard Drives and SSDs
In addition, Kanguru has other non-encrypted USB devices with advantages you can’t get anywhere else. With digitally-signed, secure firmware options, and a physical write protect switch, Kanguru drives are exceptional as trusted devices for endpoint security environments.
Conclusion
Apple’s withdrawal of its ADP service for UK iCloud users highlights the increasing risks of cloud storage, especially regarding government access to encrypted data. iStorage | Kanguru offers secure, localized alternatives with PIN-protected, hardware-encrypted devices that provide enhanced data protection and compliance. These solutions give individuals and organizations full control over their sensitive information, offering a safer and more reliable option than cloud storage. Contact iStorage or Kanguru to learn more.