The new security IC solution combines a fingerprint sensor, secure element, and secure processor in one chip
Samsung introduces the S3B512C fingerprint security IC for biometric payment cards. (Credit: SAMSUNG)
Samsung Electronics has introduced a new fingerprint security integrated circuit (IC) called S3B512C for biometric payment cards.
According to Samsung, the new security IC solution brings together a fingerprint sensor, secure element, and secure processor in one chip. It is claimed to have enhanced security features that are enabled by the company’s fingerprint authentication algorithm and anti-spoofing technology.
S3B512C is EMVCo and Common Criteria Evaluation Assurance Level (CC EAL) 6+ certified. It is claimed to perform in line with the latest Biometric Evaluation Plan Summary (BEPS) specifications from Mastercard for biometric payment cards.
Samsung System LSI Marketing vice president Kenny Han said: “S3B512C combines a fingerprint sensor, Secure Element (SE) and Secure Processor, adding an extra layer of authentication and security in payment cards.
“The S3B512C is primarily designed for payment cards but can also be used in cards that require highly secured authentications such as student or employee identification, membership or building access.”
The new security IC is capable of reading biometric information using a fingerprint sensor, said the company. It stores and authenticates encrypted data with a tamper-proof secure element and with its secure processor, analyses and processes data.
Samsung said that the S3B512C can help card manufacturers in cutting down the number of chips needed and streamline card design processes for biometric payment cards.
By embedding the new security IC, biometric payment cards will facilitate quicker and safer interactions when making purchases, said the company.
Furthermore, the company stated that the biometric authentication eliminates the requirement of imputing a PIN on a keypad. Besides, it stops fraudulent transactions made with lost or stolen cards as it verifies the identity of cardholders with a unique and securely stored fingerprint.
For verifying the user’s identity safely and accurately, S3B512C has a fingerprint authentication algorithm and a secure processor for extracting and analysing the unique features of the fingerprint put on the sensor.