Deutsche Telekom is working with SAP on a blockchain application to prevent thieves from accessing data on stolen phones.

DT says that currently, when a mobile phone is reported stolen, it helps the customer to protect personal data by blocking the smartphone through its International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) number. Deutsche Telekom places the device's IMEI on an internal blocking list, which prevents the phone from connecting with DT’s network. However, the thief can continue using the phone in other mobile networks.

Now, DT is testing an application it has designed — the Global IMEI Storage and Services app to protect the customer's data on multiple networks. DT created this application based on the SAP Cloud Platform for Blockchain, SAP’s blockchain-as-a-service offering.

Just last week, SAP announced the general availability of its SAP Cloud Platform for Blockchain. It enables enterprises to solve business problems with blockchain technologies, such as Hyperledger Fabric and MultiChain. SAP says about 65 companies participate in its SAP blockchain co-innovation initiative. DT created its application via this co-innovation program.

DT’s application creates a decentralized blocking list based on blockchain technology. The app will make it possible to anonymize blocked IMEI numbers and make them available to other network operators. As a result, customer smartphones can be blocked by all network providers, device manufacturers, and the IT departments of organizations.

DT says, “Public blocking lists would also be helpful for people interested in buying used smartphones, because it would enable them to check whether an offered phone has been reported stolen with just a few clicks.”