ABSA and MTN over the weekend launched what they say is the first wireless Internet gateway (WIG) service in SA.
WIG uses two-way short message service (SMS) to deliver information rather than the continuous datacalls of WAP. A special 32-bit SIM card contains the mini-browser that interfaces with the user, as well as the security module.
The PIN number is encrypted with a triple DES 128-bit key and all SMS messages are encrypted with the GSM 03.48 algorithm as well as the standard GSM air-interface encryption.
Security is the main reason WIG was chosen as the delivery method for the service, says Edward Wicks, MTN`s banking product development specialist. "The strong encryption is more secure than most Internet applications, ideal for banking." Because the security module is situated on the SIM card and independent of the handset used, MTN has full control over the encryption.
ABSA believes the system is superior to WAP for various reasons. "Mobile banking on a WAP system is already available but the current technology has a number of disadvantages for the layman," says Henri Slabbert, ABSA contact centres GM. "It is extremely niche and limited to high-priced, new generation cellphone models. It is also expensive in terms of call costs because it requires users to go online at cellular rates to conduct their banking."
The ABSA service offers balance and statement enquiries, account transfers and payments.
A special SIM is required to make use of the service, at a cost of around R100. Interfaces for different services can be downloaded using over-the-air messages. MTN says WIG offers many opportunities and it expects to roll-out further services on the platform. The current system will also allow third-party development of services.
Wicks believes WIG and WAP can be used as complementary technology and foresees both protocols being used at the back-end of applications, invisible to the user. "There are debates about security and the nature of services all the time," he says. "But rolling this out gave us an opportunity to move forward now."
ABSA charges a R11 monthly charge for the service, which is only available to MTN contract users at present.
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