BlackBerry BB10 fails UK Govt security test

The UK government has rejected the BB10 software, calling it not secure enough for essential work.

The operating system on the new Z10 device was rejected after BlackBerry version 7.1 was cleared by the UK's Communications Electronics Security Group (CESG) for classifications up to ‘Restricted' – two levels below ‘Secret'.

BlackBerry could not offer a date when revised software would be submitted.

“We have a long-established relationship with CESG and we remain the only mobile solution approved for use at 'Restricted' when configured in accordance with CESG guidelines. This level of approval only comes following a process which is rigorous and absolutely necessary given the highly confidential nature of the communications being transmitted.

“The current restructuring of this approval process, due to the Government Protective Marking Scheme review and the new CESG Commercial Product Assurance scheme has an impact on the timeline for BlackBerry 10 to receive a similar level of approval.

“The US government's FIPS 140-2 certification of BlackBerry 10 and the selection of BlackBerry 10 by the German Procurement Office and Federal Office for Information Security underline how our new platform continues to set the standard for government communications."

This article originally appeared at scmagazineuk.com