I have sent more iCloud links than I can count. Nevertheless, I never even wondered who else could see what was sitting behind them. Well, it looks like Apple is starting to wonder for all of us.
In a new support document, Apple confirms that iOS 27.3 will check the content shared through public “Anyone with the link” iCloud links for harmful material (via Apple). While the developer beta is already available, the stable build is expected in December 2026.
What exactly will Apple control?
When you share a photo via iCloud Photos or a file via iCloud Drive, Apple offers two options: “People you choose”, which limits access to invited people, and “Anyone with the link”, which allows anyone with the URL to see the content.
Only public links are reviewed. The same change applies to iPadOS, macOS, and visionOS 27.3. Since public links have always been accessible to everyone, “including Apple”, I see this as Apple finally pushing through a door where it always had a key.
Here’s the catch: Apple doesn’t define “harmful content.” It also doesn’t explain how the checks work. His mention of law enforcement indicates malware or sexual abuse material (CSAM), but that’s my inference.
What happens when Apple brands something?
If content is flagged, Apple “reserves the right to move, reject, edit, remove, or delete” it at any time. It can also block or disable your Apple account and contact law enforcement “if necessary.”
There is also a privacy trade-off. Content shared through public links is not end-to-end encrypted, even with Advanced Privacy enabled. But the logic is simple: Apple can’t check what it can’t access.
In my experience, most public links carry vacation videos, not contraband, so most of us don’t notice. Nevertheless, I stick to “People you choose” or “Send a copy” when I share something privately.