UAE: “Security risk” BlackBerrys face restrictions

BlackBerrys could be banned or monitored in the UAE after officials announced on 26 July, that they do not conform with national laws. The region’s Telecommunications Regulatory Authority said that “BlackBerry operates beyond the jurisdiction of national legislation” and warned that its misuse could cause “serious social, judicial and national security repercussions.” The Blackberry smart phone, developed by Research in Motion, was released prior to the enactment of safety emergency and national security legislation in 2007. Particular concern relates to the use of internal encrypted networks for email and instant message services, making it difficult for the authorities to track. In 2009, the government was subjected to widespread criticism after encouraging Blackberry customers to download an “upgrade”, which transpired to be surveillance software enabling officials to read and store user’s emails.

UK: Tribunal awards fireman fired for email £80,000

On 20 July, an employment tribunal awarded a Stockport fire fighter £80,000 after ruling that his dismissal violated his right to freedom of expression. Christopher Bennett, who suffers arthritis, was dismissed for gross misconduct in 2008 after circulating an email to colleagues asking if they found new office chairs uncomfortable. In 2006, Greater Manchester Fire Service replaced beds used by night shift workers with £400 recliner chairs. Bennett claimed the new chairs worsened his condition. The tribunal held that the dismissal violated Bennett’s right to freedom of expression under the Human Rights Act.

Iran threatens opposition on cell phone, e-mail use

Iran’s police chief today warned the opposition movement that their emails and text messages are being monitored and that those who use SMS, emails or other web tools to organise protests will be severely punished.

General Ismail Ahmadi-Moghaddam said the police would show no mercy. He was quoted by the state-run Iranian Students News Agency as saying “Attending illegal gatherings, rioting and insulting the sacred are reason for police reaction,” but “those who organize the gathering commit a bigger crime.”

Ahmadi-Moghaddam also warned the opposition supporters using proxy servers to disguise their location that it was mistake to believe proxies could prevent the government from identifying them.