Although BlackBerry devices are already more secure than other commercially available phones, some folks need an extra layer of security. For heads of the governments and top-level executives the “default” security just won’t cut it. Chances are NSA (other other agencies for that matter) can slide through built-in security mechanisms.
That shouldn’t be the case with the special version of the BlackBerry Z10 which is now selling for whopping $2,770. All that extra cash should make sure you and the person on the other end of the line are the only ones versed in the conversation.
The super-secure Z10 is a product of Secusmart GmbH, which as far as I’ve understood is happy to sell its gear to top German officials. These guys basically bundled a MicroSD card loaded with Secusmart’s proprietary software and hardware to offer 128-bit AES encryption, elliptic curve cryptography, and certificate-based authentication of call participants. That extra security, however, only works if the person you’re calling has the same level of protection. On the other hand, if you call an open line, you’re just as vulnerable as any other Z10 user. So yes, Secusmart wants you to buy more of these at once.
Android fans working for the secret service would be happy to know that the company is also working to bring its feature set to smartphones running Google’s platform. In the meantime, if you want and can afford the extra security you’ll have to go for this special Z10…
[Via: Bloomberg]