Cryptography Research (CRI), a division of Rambus and Mikron JSC (Mikron), a division of SITRONICS JSC have signed a license agreement regarding the use of CRI’s patents in Mikron products, including Mikron’s secure integrated circuits.
With the incorporation of CRI’s patented technology, Mikron can protect its tamper-resistant products against differential power analysis (DPA) and related attacks.
DPA is an attack that involves monitoring variations in electrical power consumption of a target device and then using statistical methods to derive cryptographic keys or other secrets.
CRI said it has developed a portfolio of over 55 patents covering countermeasures to DPA attacks, with additional patent applications pending.
Mikron JSC chief executive officer Gennady Krasnikov said Mikron produces a wide range of ICs for secure ID systems and various smart cards using payment applications that require the highest security rating.
"Security is a major focus for Mikron, and our strategy is to develop advanced secure microcontrollers with protection against a multitude of attacks. DPA Countermeasures are a critical security requirement, and this agreement will enable Mikron to strengthen its leadership in the security market," said Krasnikov.
CRI president and chief scientist Paul Kocher said CRI’s patented countermeasures to DPA are a vital part of building tamper-resistant semiconductors.
"Mikron is the largest Russian chip supplier for a variety of industries and we are pleased to include them as our first Russia-based licensed chip supplier," said Kocher.
