In an effort to enhance data security for laptops, mobile phones, and other easily lost devices, IBM has recently announced a new method that allows for encryption of information right at the heart of the system
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| Source: Online-Security-solution |
There are many ways to encrypt data to protect it from prying eyes. Numerous specialized software can perform this role, and the chips inside computers can do so as well.
However, IBM researchers argue that unless the encryption function is executed by the computer’s central processing unit (CPU), any skilled hacker can exploit the gap between the computer’s memory and independent encryption tools.
To demonstrate their point, this morning IBM introduced “SecureBlue,” an encryption circuit that can be integrated into any processor, regardless of the chip manufacturer. Alongside this, IBM boldly labeled its new product as “one of the most groundbreaking devices on the planet.”
However, IBM is not the only company seeking to integrate data encryption functionality into computer CPUs. Intel’s upcoming “LaGrande” technology is fundamentally based on this ambition, although it requires interaction with an independent chip called the Trusted Platform Module. According to IBM, their method may bypass this requirement.
Richard Doherty, an analyst at Envisioneering Group, believes that the design of SecureBlue is flexible enough to bring high-level encryption to devices like MP3 players or mobile phones. This means the technology will not only serve those wishing to keep sensitive information within handheld devices private but also allow users to protect copyrighted content stored on their phones and multimedia devices.
Nevertheless, IBM’s encryption tool is not simply a module that can be easily integrated into any current chip architecture. It needs to be “woven” into the processor from the ground up, mixed with other transistors in a “hamburger” style.
The biggest challenge for IBM now is to convince analysts and users that SecureBlue is safer and more secure than all existing software-based encryption methods for handheld devices.
Bruce Schneier, chairman of Counterpane Internet Security, notes that integrated encryption with the CPU can significantly enhance real security, but it would be “foolish” to assume that hackers only target the information exchange process between the computer CPU and the encryption tool to launch attacks.
Thien Yi
