The software could “expose people to incredible vulnerabilities,” Cook added, arguing that smartphones contain private information about users and even their families.
“This would be bad for America,” he said. “It would also set a precedent that I believe many people in America would be offended by.”
Cook disputed FBI Director James Comey’s argument that the court order applies to only one phone.
“If a court can ask us to write this piece of software, think about what else they could ask us to write,” Cook said. “Maybe it’s an operating system for surveillance. Maybe it’s the ability for law enforcement to turn on the camera. I mean I don’t know where this stops.”
A Department of Justice spokeswoman did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Apple is expected to file its legal response to the judge’s order by Friday.
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