"The FBI is asking Apple to weaken the security of our products," Sewell said. "Hackers and cyber criminals could use this to wreak havoc on our privacy and personal safety. It would set a dangerous precedent for government intrusion on the privacy and safety of its citizens."
Apple, FBI To Face Off In Congress Over Locked iPhone
WASHINGTON (CBSLA.com) — Apple Inc. and the FBI will face off in Congress Tuesday over unlocking the San Bernardino gunman's iPhone.
According to CBS News, FBI Director James Comey and Apple senior vice president and general counsel Bruce Sewell are both scheduled to testify at a House Judiciary Committee hearing on encryption technology and the balance between security and privacy. New York District Attorney Cyrus Vance, Jr. will also testify at the hearing.
RELATED: Bruce Sewell's Opening Statement
On Feb. 16, U.S. Magistrate Sheri Pym ruled that Apple Inc. must provide software to disable the security feature that erases data from the iPhone after 10 wrong password attempts.
The government claims the request is limited to the individual case.
CEO Tim Cook responded to the court order stating the company would not comply with demands to help the FBI unlock the shooter's iPhone.
The Department of Justice later disputed the company's refusal on Feb. 19. In response, Apple demanded for Congress to settle the encryption battle.
For the past two weeks, both anger and praise have surfaced along with controversy in the public. Major players have taken sides and rallies have been held at Apple stores nationwide.
Apple has argued the case would set a "dangerous" precedent while prosecutors say the company's refusal to comply "appears to be based on its concern for its business model and brand marketing strategy."
The hearing is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. EST/10 a.m. PST on Capitol Hill.
