Apple to start checking iCloud public links for harmful content in iOS 27.3, 9to5Mac reports
Public link sharing changes
Apple’s first iOS 27.3 beta includes changes to public iCloud links, according to a newly published support document. The update also brings Siri AI improvements, new Safari features, and an Apple Health app.
When sharing an iCloud photo or file, users can send a copy or share a link. A shared link can be limited to people the user chooses or made available to anyone who has it, including Apple. Apple says items shared through the “Anyone with the link” option will be checked for harmful content starting with version 27.3 or later of iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS.
Possible action over content
If Apple identifies shared material as harmful, the support document says the company may move, refuse, change, remove, or delete it at any time. Apple also says it may act against an account. Possible measures include blocking or disabling the account, preventing a new account from being created with the associated email address or phone number, or involving law enforcement if necessary.
What users should know
The public-link option already allows access by anyone with the link, including Apple. The stated change is that Apple will now check items shared this way for harmful content. The article does not describe the same checking for links shared only with people the user selects.
Key points
- Apple will check iCloud items shared through public links for harmful content starting with version 27.3 updates.
- The policy covers iOS, iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS versions 27.3 or later.
- Apple says it may remove flagged material and take action against associated accounts.
- Public links are accessible to anyone who has the link, including Apple.