AST eBusiness Integrity Services (eBIS), a division of Advanced Software Technologies-Abraxas (AST-A), has announced that Schlumberger and Entrust Technologies are collaborating to provide client security solutions for the WAP-enabled mobile e-commerce marketplace.
The strategic collaboration combines a new generation of WAP Identity Module (WIM) smart cards developed by Schlumberger, with Entrust public-key infrastructure (PKI) products and services. As distributor for Entrust, AST eBIS will be able to extend the benefits of this collaboration to South Africa.
"GSM mobile telecom operators will have a turnkey solution for securing mobile Internet transactions such as the purchase of goods, and accessing Intranets over wireless networks," explains Steve Crutchley, GM of AST eBIS, SA distributor for Entrust. "Millions of mobile phone users will have "peace of mind" that their e-commerce transactions have been secured."
"Schlumberger and Entrust will jointly integrate and promote their WIM/PKI solutions to telecommunications equipment and micro-browser vendors such as Nokia, Ericsson, Phone.com, Motorola and others," continues Crutchley. "They will also jointly promote their ready-to-use package solutions to mobile telecom operators who are seeking a best-of-breed globalised approach to the WAP-enabled mobile e-commerce marketplace."
The two organisations are making this early move to meet demand from GSM mobile telecom operators, who are keen to plan, trial and implement trusted WAP-based transaction services such as payment, mobile banking and brokerage.
The client security solution developed by Schlumberger and Entrust brings digital signature processing in support of non-repudiation to these transactions. Non-repudiation is a fundamental requirement of any transaction with value, and mobile operators anticipate that the availability of a turnkey WIM production system will allow trials or commercial services to be launched as soon as WAP terminals compliant with the new 1.2 specification become available.
"By specifying PKI as an intrinsic function of WAP terminals, the mobile Internet industry has created a powerful catalyst for electronic commerce," concludes Crutchley. "We could see the first true mass applications of digital signatures as early as the end of this year - signalling a new era for business."
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Advanced Software Technologies-Abraxas (AST-A)
Advanced Software Technologies-Abraxas (AST-A) provides comprehensive and integrated ICT-based solutions to an increasing range of global corporate clients. AST-A`s best-of-breed software, excellent service delivery capabilities and our solution focus makes us your ideal strategic partner.
AST-A focuses on industries such as mining, financial services, manufacturing, telecommunications and government. We have specialists in management and IT Consulting, IT Communications, Enterprise Systems Management, IT services, ERP Solutions, Outsourcing, Technology Rentals and Training.