PRISM, or Program Review Technique, is a U$.$S$.$ government initiative that enables the collection and analysis of foreign communications. It operates in partnership with major tech companies like Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Facebook, which are legally required to provide access to user data, including emails and messages. This information is analyzed to identify potential threats.

An example of PRISM gathering intelligence on a suspected terrorist involves the government collecting communications from that individual. This data can then be analyzed to find information that may help identify the suspect or prevent future attacks.

Tim Cook challenges the request for an iPhone back door, arguing it violates the privacy of all users and could allow unauthorized access by hackers. He believes the government should require a warrant or probable cause to accest private data.

Conversely, FBI Director James Comey supports the back door as a vital tool for law enforcement in terrorism investigations, asserting it would be a secure way to access data without compromising security and would only be used with a valid warrant or probable cause.