Security token and method for wireless applications
AssigneeMotorola, Inc.
InventorsPaul Roy Kennedy, Timothy Gerard Hall, Douglas Allen Hardy
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Apparatus and a method are described for providing for multiple secure functions in a host or wireless radiotelephone. Access to the functionality of the radiotelephone is provided by means of a smart card or security token features contained therein. The determination of the secure function which is accessed is determined by encrypted credential information carried in the smart card. The smart card may be used for numerous applications, but is particularly useful in conjunction with radiotelephone devices having a plurality of secure communication levels. The radiotelephone device will activate the secure levels based on the security level algorithm carried in the smart card.
Claims20
A communication device comprising:
- a token receiving portion adapted to receive and read data stored in a token;
- encryption/decryption apparatus operable to provide for at least two levels of encrypted communications;
- and
- apparatus for obtaining data from said token and utilizing said data for enabling one of said at least two levels of encrypted communications;
- whereby said communications device may be used for secure communications in accordance with the enabled level of encrypted communications.
A smart card usable as a security token for enabling secure communications with a host communications device, said smart card comprising:
- a memory portion containing a first portion of a first security algorithm and adapted to be received by said host communication device having a plurality of secure functions which are selectively operable according to a corresponding plurality of security algorithms including at least said first security algorithm;
- and
- a processor for controlling transfer of said first portion of said first security algorithm to said host communication device;
- wherein said host communication device contains a second portion of said first security algorithm and wherein said first portion and said second portion of said first security algorithm combine to form a key which enables access to said selectively operable secure functions that correspond to said first security algorithm.
A personal communication device for providing encrypted communications, said device comprising:
- a token receiving portion adapted to receive a token;
- encryption/decryption apparatus operable to provide communication at least one level of encryption;
- apparatus for obtaining data stored in said token;
- and
- a key generator for controlling access to secure functions of said personal communication device based on said data obtained from said token;
- whereby said personal communication device may be used for secure functions in accordance with the enabled level of encrypted communications.
A method of providing secure communications with a communications device, comprising:
- storing in said communications device first portions of a plurality of encryption algorithms each encryption algorithm corresponding to a predetermined level of secure communication;
- storing in a token, a second portion of a selected one of said plurality of encryption algorithms;
- utilizing said token to enable said selected one encryption algorithm, whereby communications are secured in accordance with said selected one encryption algorithm.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.