News
Issue #2001 - 26 (June 2001)
(Updated June 27,  2001)

INFRASTRUCTURE, PRODUCTS & SERVICES 

Certicom Launches Data Encryptor for Palm Handhelds

Mobile professionals using their handhelds such as Palm for more than general-purpose productivity applications are leaving critical information wide open for hackers, especially if their device is ever stolen or loss. 

To address this critical problem, Certicom has launched movianCrypt™ that is described as a powerful and efficient transparent data encryptor for handhelds. The technology uses 128-bit advanced encryption standards to protect information on all devices running Palm OS version 3.0 or higher. According to Certicom, once the technology is installed, it requires minimal effort from the end-user.

"Given the critical need for robust, user-friendly security on mobile devices and the compelling feature of movianCrypt, we anticipate a positive response from users, executives, and the corporate IT community," remarked Rick Dalmazzi, president and CEO of Certicom. 

Features and benefits of movianCrypt

• Password- based log-on system: The password unlocks a key that decrypts data as it is being accessed and encrypts data as it is being stored. The product uses idle-CPU time to re-crypt data. Since the password is not stored on the device, it cannot be HotSynced.
• Enhance security: movianCrypt uses AES with 128-bit key encryption to encrypt all data, including address book and memo pad. After a pre-determined period of time, the device will automatically shut off, a further security measure.
• Optimize performance: movianCrypt is designed for optimum performance on the 68K processor, for small, constrained devices.

Field Trials
Since last July the Department of Psychiatry at the University of California's Davis Medical Center has been beta testing movianCrypt in 40 Palm handhelds. Dr. John Luo, director of Psychiatric Informatics at the Center gives the encryption product a vote of confidence. He says, "The movianCrypt product is a solution that our group has been waiting for because it provides seamless encryption and authentication measures in a small memory footprint. Not all physician users are technology savvy, and a product which integrates well with existing applications in a manner requiring limited user action is key to successful implementation. "

For more information: http://www.certicom.com/about/pr/01/010611_moviancrypt.html

Mobileinfo Comments and Advisory: Good to see 128-bit encryption on Palm. It is now in the major league. 

Note: This news release may contain forward-looking statements. Readers should take appropriate caution in developing plans utilizing these products, services and technology architectures.  All trademarks used in this summary are the property of their respective owners.