Apple Blocks WikiLeaks iPhone App

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STEVE INSKEEP, host:

And we have a quick note for iPhone users who are following those secret government documents on WikiLeaks: There is no longer an app for that. Apple previously offered the $1.99 WikiLeaks app in its online app store. That function sells applications, or apps: programs specially adapted to the phone. This particular app was designed to provide quick access to WikiLeaks' Web site and Twitter feed.

LINDA WERTHEIMER, host:

The app was developed by a Moscow man who says he's not affiliated with WikiLeaks. In an e-mail to The Wall Street Journal, he said he's not even a WikiLeaks reader.

In dropping the program, Apple cited a company policy that apps must comply with all local laws and may not put an individual or group in harm's way.

INSKEEP: This makes Apple the latest company to publicly distance itself from WikiLeaks. Amazon dropped the site from its servers last month. Visa, MasterCard, PayPal and Bank of America are all blocking donations to WikiLeaks. Some of those companies found themselves the targets of cyber attacks by hackers who support WikiLeaks.

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