Arab Emirates to block BlackBerry services

DUBAI - The United Arab Emirates outlined plans Sunday to block BlackBerry e-mail, messaging and Web browsing services in a crackdown that could jeopardize efforts to establish the country as an international business hub.

The government cited a potential security threat because encrypted data sent on the devices is moved abroad, where it cannot be monitored for illegal activity. But the decision, quickly followed by a similar move in Saudi Arabia, raises questions about whether the nation is trying to further control politically or morally objectionable content.

The UAE's decision will affect hundreds of thousands of BlackBerry users starting in October. It's unclear whether the ban will extend to foreign visitors with roaming services.

A spokeswoman for manufacturer Research In Motion said the Canadian company had no immediate comment. - AP