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Security
March
5, 2005
Secure
memory cards combine flash memory storage, smart card
security
UNITED
KINGDOM -- Secure memory cards, a unique pairing of
flash memory storage and smart card security, are a
major advance over conventional counterparts. Pocket-sized,
removable storage can now be used for sensitive information
such as business, healthcare or government data in complete
confidence. Smart and small, these cards store digital
content securely than ever before and are coming soon
for mobile phones, media players, PDAs, notebooks and
a host of other portable devices. According to Aspects
Software, independent developer of the software and
cryptography behind the innovation, the devices will
be pocket-sized and reach millions of users within a
few years.
Chris Caruk, chief technologist and vice president,
product marketing, Aspects, said: "Flash memory
is everywhere from cameras and MP3 players through to
corporate PDAs and laptops. However, until now there's
been zero security in the hardware. Anyone finding,
borrowing or stealing a flash card has had open access
to what it holds."
The new cards put smart card silicon -- as used in secure
payment and ID cards. Users can secure the data just
by securing the smart card element. Previous security
schemes have had to rely on the host device to provide
protection. At a cost similar to normal flash cards,
secure memory cards will be backward compatible with
all devices that use SD (secure digital) format storage.
To take full advantage of the security potential, host
device must be SDIO compatible.
Secure memory cards are seen as key to emerging digital
rights management schemes for electronic content. Digital
music, video and e-books can be conveniently stored
and moved, yet remain restricted to purchasers.
Secret behind secure memory cards is an embedded Java
card operating system. Developed by Aspects Software,
OS755 is also available for SIM cards, finance cards
and the new generation biometric/ID cards. Tight, high-performance,
standards-compliant, and easily adapted to new silicon,
OS755 allows silicon vendors to go to market with a
new card in weeks rather than months.
Contact:
Aspects Software
Tel: +44-131-225-9500
chris.caruk@aspectssoftware.com
www.aspectsoftware.com
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