Fujitsu, a leading Japanese information and communication technology (ICT) company, has announced the development of blockchain-based software to create secure data exchange networks.

Developed by Fujitsu Laboratories Ltd., the software is based on Fujitsu Virtual Private Digital Exchange Technology that can apply blockchain to control access to distributed data. The technology enables registrations of data attribute information and ID information based on where the data is stored. At the same time, it also manages the access control policy in order to limit users who can obtain the data. Moreover, the system automatically handles data exchange between the provider and users based on the policy set in advance.

This new software is based on the Hyperledger Fabric and was created by developing proprietary smart contracts executed on the blockchain. Features of this software include:

• Registrations of data attribute information and ID information based on where the data is stored: Data providers can record attribute information (for example, type and element of data) and ID information linked with data storage on the blockchain's distributed ledger, while the data remains where it is stored. That is, users can easily search for data according to the attribute information recorded in the distributed ledger. They can also obtain ID information for the data. Data providers do not need to allow users to download the data directly from where it is stored. Instead, they encrypt the data and send it to users who initially provide their ID information. This enables secure data sharing.
• Access policy management for each dataset: When registering information on the blockchain, data providers can manage the access policy for each data set. This enables the providers to selectively disclose information to those who are granted access to the distributed ledger.
• Automated processes from data request to transmission: This software features smart contracts which enables efficient data exchange. Smart contracts will automatically execute a series of processes after the data has been requested, from access authorization to transmission of data.

By using this software to build a data exchange network among multiple organizations and companies, participants can safely and rapidly share data. With a proprietary data access control technology, Fujitsu aims to promote interchanges of data accumulated by various organizations and companies.

Fujitsu said that it aims to expand this software and commercialize it as part of the Fujitsu Network Virtuora series during fiscal 2017. This software will be demonstrated at Interop Tokyo 2017, to be held at Makuhari Messe (Chiba city, Chiba Prefecture) from June 7th to 9th.