Simple is Smart

Security takes on a new perspective when looking at the IT side of the aisle. After my first day through the RSA Conference in San Francisco, I have to say Cherry’s FIPS 201 compliant keyboard makes simple look pretty smart.

The keyboard is where the authentication takes place, rather than, as Craig Kaliebe, the company’s marketing manager put it, “risking the PC to attack.” The authentication card simply slides in the designated spot on the keyboard, and voilà, authentication begins.

Cherry is part of ZF Electronics Corp., based in Pleasant Prairie, Wis.

Secure-pin entry is the safe transmission of the PIN of a chip card, or a smart card, from the user to the card without the data reaching the computer. The security pin is so important that it gives the user the right to read or write, and verify that you are the owner of the card. With the verification process taking place on the keyboard, the PIN will not be transferred to the PC, instead transmitted within the keyboard directly to the smart card.

So it is not possible to spy the PIN from the data line of the keyboard wire or with a keylogger on the PC.

I also enjoyed a briefing from DataLocker officials who showed off their secure, writeable DVD and compact disc. It combines AES 256-bit encryption and disc burning functionality, all self-contained on a recordable CD or DVD. It has its own built-in software for disc burning and government strength FIPS 140-2 AES 256-bit encryption.

The best part is that there is no software to install and no need for third-party applications. It gives users a simple, secure method to transport, share and archive sensitive data and records.

There is a lot of talk about clouds this year at RSA in San Francisco. I’m going cloud hunting tomorrow and hope to let you know what I find.

About the Author

Ralph C. Jensen is the Publisher/Editor in chief of Security Today magazine.

Featured

  • From Surveillance to Intelligence

    Years ago, it would have been significantly more expensive to run an analytic like that — requiring a custom-built solution with burdensome infrastructure demands — but modern edge devices have made it accessible to everyone. It also saves time, which is a critical factor if a missing child is involved. Video compression technology has played a critical role as well. Over the years, significant advancements have been made in video coding standards — including H.263, MPEG formats, and H.264—alongside compression optimization technologies developed by IP video manufacturers to improve efficiency without sacrificing quality. The open-source AV1 codec developed by the Alliance for Open Media—a consortium including Google, Netflix, Microsoft, Amazon and others — is already the preferred decoder for cloud-based applications, and is quickly becoming the standard for video compression of all types. Read Now

  • Cost: Reactive vs. Proactive Security

    Security breaches often happen despite the availability of tools to prevent them. To combat this problem, the industry is shifting from reactive correction to proactive protection. This article will examine why so many security leaders have realized they must “lead before the breach” – not after. Read Now

  • Achieving Clear Audio

    In today’s ever-changing world of security and risk management, effective communication via an intercom and door entry communication system is a critical communication tool to keep a facility’s staff, visitors and vendors safe. Read Now

  • Beyond Apps: Access Control for Today’s Residents

    The modern resident lives in an app-saturated world. From banking to grocery delivery, fitness tracking to ridesharing, nearly every service demands another download. But when it comes to accessing the place you live, most people do not want to clutter their phone with yet another app, especially if its only purpose is to open a door. Read Now

  • Survey: 48 Percent of Worshippers Feel Less Safe Attending In-Person Services

    Almost half (48%) of those who attend religious services say they feel less safe attending in-person due to rising acts of violence at places of worship. In fact, 39% report these safety concerns have led them to change how often they attend in-person services, according to new research from Verkada conducted online by The Harris Poll among 1,123 U.S. adults who attend a religious service or event at least once a month. Read Now

Most   Popular

New Products

  • Compact IP Video Intercom

    Viking’s X-205 Series of intercoms provide HD IP video and two-way voice communication - all wrapped up in an attractive compact chassis.

  • EasyGate SPT and SPD

    EasyGate SPT SPD

    Security solutions do not have to be ordinary, let alone unattractive. Having renewed their best-selling speed gates, Cominfo has once again demonstrated their Art of Security philosophy in practice — and confirmed their position as an industry-leading manufacturers of premium speed gates and turnstiles.

  • PE80 Series

    PE80 Series by SARGENT / ED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin

    ASSA ABLOY, a global leader in access solutions, has announced the launch of two next generation exit devices from long-standing leaders in the premium exit device market: the PE80 Series by SARGENT and the PED4000/PED5000 Series by Corbin Russwin. These new exit devices boast industry-first features that are specifically designed to provide enhanced safety, security and convenience, setting new standards for exit solutions. The SARGENT PE80 and Corbin Russwin PED4000/PED5000 Series exit devices are engineered to meet the ever-evolving needs of modern buildings. Featuring the high strength, security and durability that ASSA ABLOY is known for, the new exit devices deliver several innovative, industry-first features in addition to elegant design finishes for every opening.