 Gemplus
Combats SIM Card Cloning with Strong Key Security Solution
The GSM Association has validated the Gemplus
Strong Key Solution for SIM Security to
limit fraud in early SIM cards
- Strong Key foils SIM cloning that has been directed
against the Comp128 v.1 authentication algorithm
- Solution allows operators to continue to
use early SIMs as they phase in more advanced algorithms without compromising
security
CARTES 2002, PARIS - 5 November 2002 - Gemplus (Paris Euronext:
Euroclear 5768 and NASDAQ: GEMP), the world's leading provider of smart
card-enabled solutions, announces the launch of its Strong Key solution
to prevent the cloning of early SIM cards that use the Comp128 v.1 algorithm.
This industry first from Gemplus was patented earlier in the year.
Since 1999, the GSM Association has recommended that operators migrate
from Comp128 v.1 to either v.2 or v.3 algorithms. However, for operators
still using Comp128 v.1, Gemplus has found a way to protect the SIM against
the much-publicized cloning kits. Gemplus' Strong Key solution generates
keys that can withstand cloning attacks, allowing operators to continue
to use Comp128 v.1 as they phase in the more advanced v.2 and v.3 algorithms
without compromising the security of the SIM.
"A recently developed fraud prevention measure may be of interest
to operators eager to optimize their fraud prevention. This is Gemplus'
Strong Key solution. This solution consists of picking the Comp128 v.1
keys in a carefully selected sub-space, and so resists the attacks implemented
by the cloning kits found on the Internet, which Gemplus has bought and
analyzed," states James Moran, fraud & security director, GSM
Association.
This technology has received an enthusiastic response among GSM operators
worldwide. An initial contract for Gemplus' Strong Key solution has been
signed in Europe and discussions are currently underway with operators
in Asia.
Gemplus' commitment to security
With security at the heart of every smart card developed and delivered,
Gemplus has made an ongoing commitment to its customers to monitor new
risks and continually improve the security of information systems. Each
new generation of technology presents a series of new risks, meaning that
security must constantly be reviewed and upgraded. This industry-leading
security work lies at the heart of the Strong Key solution announced today.
Etienne Cambois, telecom manager in the Gemplus card security group,
said: "Digital security is not a technology that you can buy. It
is a comprehensive commitment over time to protect, monitor and improve
digital information systems. It is part of Gemplus' ongoing dedication
to provide the utmost security to our customers. It is essential to continually
monitor changes in the security landscape and implement the appropriate
upgrades in an efficient and effective manner."
Gemplus works with industry-leading experts in cryptography and digital
security who together play an active role in industrial and academic research.
Gemplus' track record of innovative solutions addresses even the most
critical security problems. This is supported by strong consulting services
designed to help customers integrate security into their total system.
For more information, see: http://www.gemplus.com/smart.
About Gemplus
GEMPLUS: the world's leading provider of smart card solutions
Gemplus helps its clients offer an exceptional range of portable, personalized
solutions that bring security and convenience to people's lives. These
include mobile Internet access, inter-operable banking facilities, e-commerce
and a wealth of other applications.
Gemplus is the only completely dedicated, truly global player in the
Smart Card industry, with the largest R&D team, unrivalled experience,
and an outstanding track record of technological innovation.
In 2001, Gemplus was the worldwide smart card leader in both revenues
and total smart card shipments (source: Gartner-Dataquest and Frost &
Sullivan). Gemplus was also awarded Frost & Sullivan's 2002 Market
Value Award for its exceptional performance.
Gemplus trades its shares on Euronext Paris S.A. First Market and on
the NASDAQ Stock Market as GEMP in the form of ADSs. Its revenue in 2001
was 1 billion Euros.
Gemplus: Beyond Smart
www.gemplus.com
For further information please contact:
Gemplus
Marielle Bricman
Gemplus Corporate PR Manager
Tel: +33 442 36 5596
Email: marielle.bricman@gemplus.com
©2002 Gemplus All rights reserved. Gemplus
and the Gemplus logo are trademarks and service marks of Gemplus S.A.
and are registered in certain countries. All other trademarks and service
marks, whether registered or not in specific countries, are the property
of their respective owners. Java and Java Card are trademarks or registered
trademarks of Sun Microsystems, Inc. in the United States and other countries.
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