Samsung is joining the likes of Google and Apple in including a chip specifically for security on its devices. The Galaxy S20 series comes with a Common Criteria Evaluation Assurance Level 5+ certified Secure Element which comprises of the S3K250AF security chip and software optimized for it. This is the highest level of certification for a mobile component.
Samsung has so far solely relied on software-based security measures but with the Galaxy S20, the company is turning a new leaf. The Secure Element on the Galaxy S20 series works in the same manner as it does on the likes of the iPhones and Pixels. It has a separate memory for storing private and confidential information like passwords, PINs, crypto-currency credentials, and more.
Dongho Shin, senior vice president of System LSI marketing Samsung Electronics said:
“Strong security measures have become a crucial feature in today’s smart devices as they evolve into essential tools that hold the key to our personal data connected to various services such as the cloud and financial transactions. Samsung has a long and proven history in security solutions such as smart card ICs, IoT processors and other semiconductor products that require robust security. Our new turnkey SE solution for mobile devices will not only keep user data safer on the go but also enable new mobile applications that will broaden and enrich our everyday lives.”
The Secure Element will fend off reverse engineering attempts, power glitches, laser attacks, and more in a bid to protect sensitive data stored on your Galaxy S20. The chip is already in mass production and should also be found in future flagship Samsung devices. Interestingly, Samsung is also going to make this chip available to other OEMs for use in their mobile devices.
Source: Samsung