Who stole my BlackBerry?

John Chan | Jan 08, 2008

Singapore-based company BAK2u reckons that it has a way of helping BlackBerry users get their phone back if it's lost. It has launched the PhoneBAK BB software, a Java application that checks the SIM card in a BlackBerry device, alerting the rightful owner if a foreign one is inserted.

Such software is not new. WaveSecure is another company which provides a similar service as part of its security software package for Windows Mobile and Series60. i-mate also built in such features into its Windows Mobile devices right out of the box. Nonetheless, this seems to be the first one designed specifically for BlackBerry devices. A good move, considering that those who need to have their email inbox with them all the time should rightly be more concerned about security than the average Joe.

PhoneBAK BB does just one task. It runs at startup to check the SIM card, and sends an email or SMS message to a pre-set contact if the SIM card is not an authorized one. The owner of the device and software will determine which SIM card(s) are approved and what number/address the text message or email gets sent out to.

Of course, a really tech-savvy thief will wipe out all data on the device before inserting his own SIM card, thereby removing this software as well. But think about it this way--that would mean your emails and data won't fall into the wrong hands too. In case your BlackBerry was lost and not stolen, there's a high chance that whoever finds won't know what they are in for and just insert his/her own SIM card if they do not have the intention of returning it. That's when this software will come in handy because you will have the phone number of the finder and can then persuade him/her to return it.

Though PhoneBAK BB doesn't seem to be full proof, it certainly increases your chances of getting your device back. It is currently available for all GSM BlackBerry models except those in the Curve series. It can be bought from the developer's site for a one-time payment of US$24.90. There are no subscription fees involved.

Filed under: Handhelds, Mobile Phones
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tomato75

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tomato75 says...
Hi John,

like to share with you that PhoneBAK BB now supports Curve models.

thank you, Paddy Tan. BAK2u.com

Jan 11, 2008 00:39