The Sydney Morning Herald said the encrypted phones are being used by bikies and organised gangs to arrange murders, robberies and drug deals.
Police said devices such as Blackberries with Phantom Secure software and free downloadable apps have hindered at least two murder investigations.
Phantom Secure’s Web site describes its product as a high-end communication service designed for “executives who need an effective and proven solution for their mobile concerns” – in other words, encrypted technology.
When loaded onto a Blackberry, Phantom Secure encrypts sent messages and contact lists that are kept on the device.
The encryption software is available through franchises and authorities here believe there are dozens of such franchises operating across Australia.
Investigators say criminals are also using Silent Circle’s Blackphone software – or indeed Silent Circle’s Blackphone handsets which are claimed to be impenetrable to would-be listeners-in.
A new Blackphone 2 model based on ZRTP cryptographic architecture along with a tablet dubbed the Blackphone+ have been promised for the second half of this year by CMO Rob Smith. – Chris Castellari
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