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Giesecke & Devrient to Present Its New Smart USB Security Token

At the opening of the RSA Conference 2008 in San Francisco on April 7, Giesecke & Devrient (G&D) will be presenting a new generation of USB security tokens. All data and applications can be conveniently stored together with the user's digital identity on the StarSign Mobility Token, which features a MicroSD card and embedded smart card technology. The token can be used without driver software or administrator rights, and leaves zero footprint on the computer after the work session. It enables corporate IT departments to retain control over the integrity of proprietary applications and data, even in networks involving more than one company.

An off-the-shelf MicroSD card flexibly stores all data and applications, either securely encrypted or openly accessible. A separate smart card plug-in in SIM card format, which is installed in a second slot in the mobility token, handles the secure administration of keys. Software applications can be executed directly from the token and launched automatically. The token ensures secure authentication of PC users and enables them to encrypt their data independently of data transmission and to sign documents.

As the first showcase on the conference, G&D presents a hardened browser launched from the StarSign Mobility Token, including a RSA Security one-time password (OTP) authentication mechanism.

The StarSign Mobility Token is used for storing data and applications such as hardened browsers, mail clients and other office and driver software. Applications can be launched simply and securely directly from the token when plugged into any computer. In addition, the StarSign Mobility Token provides secure access to virtual private networks (VPN) and online portals, and to online banking. Further possible applications include using the token for Single Sign-On procedures that provide users with access to a multitude of IT applications once they log into their corporate network, or in the processing of digital signatures.

The memory unit on the MicroSD card can be partitioned: into a protected area for software applications, one for encrypted data, and one for openly accessible data. The necessary encryption and decryption are performed directly in the Mobility Token at the High Speed USB signaling rate. This ensures that the encryption and decryption keys never leave the Mobility Token.

An alternative product for users who wish to use the token in combination with smart cards, for instance as company ID cards or chip-based credit cards, is the StarSign Mobility Token ID1. This includes a slot for inserting ID1-format chip cards. The token can then serve as a user-friendly, miniature, driverless card reader.



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