Partner Release - LEADING SOLUTION PROVIDERS COMBINE TO DELIVER AN ARCHITECTURE FOR TRANSACTION AUTHENTICATION

Thales e-Security delivers flexible authentication solution through an architecture built around unique multi-channel authentication platform - SafeSign®

Thales e-Security today announced the launch of the SafeSign platform for end-to-end transaction security. The unique approach of SafeSign solves the issue of end-to-end security for a range of authentication options including connected and un-connected tokens, smart cards, and soft certificates. It also allows customers to choose different levels of protection for different trust domains according to risk assessment.

SafeSign replaces the need to implement and manage different solutions for each application. For the first time an appropriate level of security for each application may be managed and authenticated through one platform without impacting service levels or utility for the legitimate users. This allows costs to be spread over many applications and services, improving return on investment.

As a unique multi-channel authentication platform, SafeSign allows new applications to be added, with an appropriate level of security, very quickly. This less costly process also improves time to market and supports the delivery of these applications in the new multi-channel world of Web, wireless, mobile, interactive television and other access points.

SafeSign has been implemented at the heart of the new BACSTEL-IP programme allowing customers to use a range of smart card based certificates, issued by a number of different UK Banks to authenticate BACS payment transactions.

With SafeSign, organisations can manage a portfolio of authentication options including multi application smart cards. They can also use the standards already implemented in the market such as Identrus, Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) certificates from a number of suppliers, and a range of personal tokens.

The SafeSign Management Server, using the edefice management suite from Intercede, provides user and token management. This allows the management of user identities, including creation, deletion and amendment of all forms of identity be it smart card, token, biometrics or PKI. The centralised key management function provides strong security for the storage and use of cryptographic keys.

Richard Parris, CEO of Intercede, said: "Intercede provides powerful digital identity management software that unites smart cards, tokens, biometrics, PKI and a host of other technologies to provide cost-effective identity solutions. When this is integrated with the middleware authentication platform the SafeSign package is a compelling argument for mixing authentication options."

In support of the SafeSign architecture Phil Curtis, Payment & ID Manager for Oberthur Card Systems, said: "Smart card technology completes the security for applications and transactions at the user end. The ability to deploy and manage from a single platform complements the expertise that Oberthur brings to the fast growing security market."

The SafeSign components are:

A wide range of user identity tokens is supported, including smart cards, soft certificates, and handheld tokens.

Paul Meadowcroft, Head of Transaction Security at Thales e-Security, said: "SafeSign is the first Advanced Authentication product to provide a powerful, customisable end-to-end security solution. The ability to process and manage different authentication options from a single platform has the potential to dramatically enhance the return on security investment for applications and services."

About Thales
Thales is a world leader and front-runner in professional electronics in three key markets: Aerospace, Defence and Information Technology & Services (IT & S). The Group employs 65,000 people in nearly 50 countries worldwide, and generated revenues of over €11 billion in 2002.

About Thales e-Security
Operating in three main markets covering e-security, card payment and network security, Thales e-Security addresses the business, government and finance industries' need for cryptographic security products and solutions. Over half of the world's banks, together with the majority of the busiest exchanges, currently use Thales technology. For more than 20 years the company has been at the forefront of security and payment technology, co-operating and contributing to set the industry standards used for financial transactions and e-commerce globally. Thales e-Security offers a wide range of security solutions to protect Government and Defence critical information infrastructures, thereby positioning the company as a leading worldwide supplier of certified network security products. Visit Thales e-Security on the Web at www.thales-esecurity.com