Mobile News

If the SIM can be considered an adaptable resource for mobile banking through STK applications with inherent security potential–SIM browsers guarantee end-to-end encryption unlike WAP 1.1–smart card developments outgrow pure reliance on the SIM (itself a smart card controlled by the operator). Banks keen to leverage their position within the transaction cycle will employ Wireless Identity Modules (WIM) as a tamper-resistant smart card device within a dual-chip/ dual-slot set up in order to bolster WAP security. However, the use of Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) for security again confirms the importance of the SIM–Finnish smart card manufacturer Setec Oy supplies the SIM cards with the PKI capability needed for Sonera SmartTrust’s PKI solution. The Setec eSIM is specifically designed for applications that require high security, such as mobile banking and stock trading. The SIM is a driver for smart card functionality–aside from WIM there are other SIM-led developments which are highlighting the importance of mobile to the smart card industry. Sonera plans to render mobile Finland’s advanced smart card ID, FINEID, by storing digital certificates on the SIM card. In general, features that encourage the use of the SIM are:

* 64 bit capacity

* Multi-application-capable

* Crypto-capable security

* Flexibility: dual-slot, dual-SIM, multi-application USIM

* Operating system development from PC to SIM, eg Microsoft Windows for smart cards.

Partnerships across the value chain involving smart card manufacturers are driven by the need for security platforms to enable m-commerce. In February 2001 Gemplus announced a pilot for PKI-based secure transactions with France Telecom Mobiles and Certplus in order to create Mobitrust. Furthermore, Schlumberger and Manx Telecom have partnered for the creation of a UMTS network, showing just how vital smart card manufacturer expertise is to the deployment of 3G services. Indeed, the advent of the Universal Subscriber Identity Module (USIM) is designed to interact with 3G networks. In December 2000 Gemplus released GemXplore 3G, a USIM Java card, while Schlumberger’s USIMERA also caters for early European and Japanese 3G entrants who want to offer attractive services.