Ex-MI5 head: Encryption is fine for apps

THE former head of MI5 has warned Amber Rudd her war on online encryption could put the nation’s security at risk.

Jonathan Evans, who retired in 2013, suggested the Home Secretary was wrong to attack firms such as WhatsApp.

He said allowing governments to access messages raised wider issues.

Lord Evans said: “I’m not one of those who thinks we should weaken encryption because there is a parallel issue – cyber security.

“The way in which cyber space is being used by criminals and by governments is a potential threat to the UK’s interests more widely.”