Security | News

Charismatics Updates PKI Middleware

• By Dian Schaffhauser
• 07/17/12

A company that offers an "agnostic" public key infrastructure (PKI) middleware interface has just updated its technology. PKI is a mechanism that allows users to exchange data securely over a public network, such as the Internet. Charismathics' Smart Security Component (CSSI) provides a PKI client that's independent of whatever device uses the security token, enabling users to use smart cards and tokens or mobile applications on smartphones from multiple suppliers within the same PKI infrastructure.

Version 5.0 introduces updates to its user interface, multi-language support, and integration with other products the company develops. Those include iEnigma, a PKI application for smart phones; virtual token drive, which converts flash memory into a PKI credential repository; and plug'n'crypt Password Memory, a free tool that lets users save their passwords onto a card or token.

The new release complies with the federal SP 800-73-3, a National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) standard that governs the interoperable use of identity credentials to allow access to government locations and systems.