BlackBerry's no to intercepting mails

Lawful interception of BlackBerry Messenger (BBM) service will only be possible after three-four months, but the makers of the smart phone have refused to provide any technology for accessing its mail service as sought by authorities, citing security issues.

While the entire interception process would be initially handled manually, the process of having automated information in real time for the BBM service would only be possible after three-four months, sources in the government said today.

Meanwhile, BlackBerry has assured it will use a Cloud Computation Method technology to create a separate server for giving real time information.

Asked if the government might extend the deadline for BlackBerry providing access to the data, which ends on October 31, the sources said the technical committee set up to look into the issue would take a decision. The government is also in the process of seeking “lawful access to data” from Google (for Gmail) and Skype.

The technical committee was also looking into the matter and notices might be issued.

However, the smart phone makers have informed the government that they could not provide any technology on intercepting the BlackBerry Enterprise Service (BES), which has also been under constant watch of the security agencies. The government has asked technical committees of Department of Telecom and National Technical Research Organisation to give their suggestions on BES before a decision could be taken.