IBM unveils security on a stick

IBM unveiled a USB device designed to protect e-banking transactions by creating a direct, secure channel between the customer's machine and the bank's online transaction server, says PC Pro.

The Zone Trusted Information Channel resembles a USB memory stick with an integrated display. It creates a TLS/SSL-based channel to a banking server, bypassing the user's PC, which could be infected with Trojans or other malware, making online banking unsafe.

The device also acts as a networking proxy and allows customers to slot in smart cards, bringing an extra level of security.

Vasco has released the Digipass 835, which features an optical interface for data transfer, reports The Earth Times.

The Digipass 835 allows a user to insert their bankcard and enter a PIN to generate a one-time password for authentication on the bank's Web site.

Data is transferred between the PC and the device through a flashing pattern on the monitor that is picked up by the Digipass when held in front of the screen. This means encrypted data can be downloaded from the PC without the need for software or driver installation.

European smart card vendor Gemalto has launched an ultra-thin credit card-sized authentication device for online banking customers, states Finextra.

The Ezio Thin Reader enables customers to generate one-time passwords by inserting a bankcard into the device and entering their PIN on its keypad. Customers then use the password to identify themselves when they log in and sign for transactions.

Gemalto says the Ezio is compliant with MasterCard's chip authentication programme and Visa's dynamic pass code authentication standards, and accepts any type of EMV-standard smart cards.