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BlackBerry AtHoc Raises the Bar with FedRAMP Class D (High) Recertification for Critical Operations

BlackBerry AtHoc has successfully completed its 2026 Class D (High) recertification under the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP).

May 20, 2026

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Blog

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Ramon Pinero

May 20, 2026 update: BlackBerry® AtHoc® has successfully completed its 2026 Class D (High) recertification under the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP). This milestone reinforces BlackBerry’s commitment to delivering secure, resilient, and government-validated communications for federal agencies and critical infrastructure organizations. Since 2025, BlackBerry AtHoc has remained the only Critical Event Management platform to achieve this FedRAMP compliance designation

When a crisis unfolds, whether it’s a cyberattack, natural disaster, or operational disruption, organizations face one critical question: Can they communicate securely and effectively to protect lives and operational continuity? For government agencies, emergency responders, healthcare providers, and organizations managing critical infrastructure, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

BlackBerry AtHoc has achieved FedRAMP Class D recertification, representing the highest level of FedRAMP assurance. This designation enables federal agencies and critical infrastructure organizations to securely communicate during high-risk events while supporting stringent operational and regulatory requirements. The recertification reinforces BlackBerry’s commitment to delivering secure, resilient, and scalable crisis communications for mission-critical environments.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the importance of FedRAMP Class D certification and why choosing a solution that meets these rigorous standards is crucial in today’s ever-evolving landscape.

What Is FedRAMP Class D (High) Certification?

The Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program (FedRAMP) standardizes the security assessment of cloud-based solutions used by U.S. government agencies and organizations supporting government operations. Achieving FedRAMP Class D, the highest impact level, is no small feat. It requires compliance with the hundreds of security controls outlined in NIST SP 800-53. These controls ensure advanced data protection, addressing sensitive information like Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), which, if compromised, could severely impact national security, public safety, or core organizational operations.

BlackBerry AtHoc’s achievement of this certification is a testament to BlackBerry's commitment to secure, reliable, and resilient communication infrastructure for mission-critical environments, such as government, critical infrastructure, law enforcement, and healthcare sectors, where protecting sensitive data is non-negotiable.

The Landscape of Modern Risks

The urgency for secure communication platforms like BlackBerry AtHoc becomes evident against today’s heightened risk environment. Organizations face escalating challenges such as advanced persistent threats (APTs), ransomware, natural disasters, and compliance pressures across industries.

1. Cybersecurity Threats
From AI-powered phishing attacks to data breaches, cyber risks have evolved into significant threats capable of undermining entire systems.

2. Compliance Challenges
Adhering to global standards (e.g., FedRAMP, HIPAA, GDPR) requires constant monitoring and advanced security tools.

3. Operational Resilience
When communication channels fail during emergencies, critical infrastructure operations, public safety, and financial stability are placed at risk.

For example, during coordinated ransomware attacks, unsecure communication channels can compromise response strategies, leaving organizations vulnerable to extended downtimes and escalating damages.

BlackBerry AtHoc addresses these risks by enabling encrypted, real-time, inter-agency communication even in the most adverse circumstances, helping vital organizations remain operational and secure.

The Challenges of Reliable Communication

Despite the high stakes, many organizations struggle with ensuring secure, two-way communication during crises. These challenges include:

  • Protecting Sensitive Data
    Organizations struggle to secure sensitive information against breaches and unauthorized access, requiring advanced encryption and monitoring solutions.

  • Data Interception Risks
    Standard communication tools like email or consumer-grade apps are susceptible to cyber espionage and interception by malicious actors.

  • Complex Compliance Requirements
    Regulatory frameworks demand robust, continuous monitoring and encryption standards, which are difficult to maintain consistently.

  • Real-Time Response Delays
    Ineffective communication tools lead to slower response times during critical incidents, increasing risks to both lives and operations. 

With FedRAMP Class D certification, BlackBerry AtHoc is uniquely positioned to resolve these issues. By combining compliance leadership and advanced encryption capabilities, it provides secure crisis communication under all circumstances.

BlackBerry AtHoc: Designed for Mission-Critical Response

BlackBerry AtHoc exemplifies cutting-edge technology for critical event management, redefining how organizations respond to emergencies. The platform incorporates features aligned to meet modern security challenges, including the following capabilities:

  • Secure and Resilient Communication: BlackBerry AtHoc ensures uninterrupted, encrypted two-way communication across all channels. This secures messages from tampering or unauthorized access while enabling real-time responses across stakeholders.

  • Real-Time Situational Awareness: BlackBerry AtHoc gathers actionable data during crises, providing organizations with an information-rich dashboard to guide decisions and mitigate delays.

  • Streamlined Emergency Planning: With automation tools like pre-configured messaging templates and workflows, BlackBerry AtHoc empowers organizations to respond faster, reducing downtime and confusion.

  • Centralized Command and Control: BlackBerry AtHoc integrates seamlessly across devices, communication channels, and third-party systems, unifying efforts for an efficient emergency response.

Why FedRAMP Class D Certification Is Game-Changing

By achieving FedRAMP Class D certification, BlackBerry AtHoc demonstrates unparalleled compliance and commitment to resilience. Here’s why this matters for organizations managing high-stakes operations:

Enhanced Security Controls

FedRAMP Class D adds 96 additional controls, beyond 'Moderate certification' levels. These cover areas like in-depth encryption, end-to-end continuous monitoring, event logging, and personnel vetting.

Operational Resilience

The stringent recovery time and recovery point objectives (RTOs/RPOs) ensure minimal system downtime. With continuous audits, organizations can maintain readiness against unexpected disruptions.

Government-Grade Design

Built specifically for mission-critical environments, the platform meets the rigorous standards necessary to handle sensitive government operations and data.

This level of compliance provides real-world reliability for sectors like critical infrastructure, healthcare providers, and agencies handling sensitive national security data.

The Benefits of Using BlackBerry AtHoc with FedRAMP Class D Certification for Crisis Management

Applying BlackBerry AtHoc in critical environments achieves meaningful, tangible results, making it a must-have for crisis management.

1. Unrivaled Security Assurance

With FedRAMP Class D certification, BlackBerry AtHoc aligns with the strictest security standards, ensuring even the most sensitive information remains protected from compromise.

2. Trusted by the Most Discerning Organizations

Whether government entities or private enterprises, organizations can rely on BlackBerry AtHoc to confidently manage critical communications, knowing it is independently tested to handle data of the highest sensitivity.

3. Confidence in Handling Sensitive Data

The platform’s ability to meet FedRAMP Class D standards ensures operational integrity, assuring that communication systems are authorized to safeguard sensitive information.

4. Operational Excellence for High-Stakes Scenarios

BlackBerry AtHoc is built for environments where failure is not an option, delivering uninterrupted performance and secure communication during crises.

Strengthening Crisis Communications

The BlackBerry AtHoc platform’s FedRAMP Class D certification underscores one clear message: secure communication cannot be left to chance. The platform empowers organizations operating in today’s complex and high-risk environment to stay connected, prepared, and resilient.

If protecting data and ensuring streamlined responses are priorities for your organization, explore how BlackBerry AtHoc can redefine secure crisis communication for you.

Download our white paper today and take the next step in fortifying your communication strategy with the BlackBerry AtHoc FedRAMP Class D certified platform.

Download our white paper to learn how BlackBerry AtHoc helps strengthen secure crisis communication with FedRAMP Class D (High) certification.

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