Issue link: https://securitytechnologyexecutive.epubxp.com/i/107544
poses, including accessing facilities and boarding federally regulated commercial aircraft. Green Cards, too, have been a focus area for DHS, which aims for these credentials to stay years ahead of counterfeiting techniques. For a card designed to last a decade, this is vital. Starting in 2010, all Green Cards were issued in a secure format using technology that prevents counterfeiting, obstructs tampering and facilitates quick and accurate authentication. Meeting security needs for these cards requires multi-layered validation using a combination of card elements, as well as a multi-layered card issuance and management approach that also optimizes efficiency, utility and user convenience. Multi-layered Validation The majority of today's card issuance and licensing systems rely on two-dimensional identity validation — comparing the person presenting credentials with data displayed on a card. Over time, cards and licenses have evolved from a simple photo ID to include sophisticated elements that enable more trustworthy visual authentication while acting as deterrents to tampering and forgery. These elements include higher-resolution images, holographic card overlaminates, and the laser engraving of permanent and unalterable personalization attributes into cards, which makes forgery and alteration virtually impossible. Even with advanced techniques, there is always someone intent on circumventing credential requirements. Would-be counterfeiters take advantage of advanced tools and materials, which fuels an ongoing need for training and diligence on the part of security staff and law enforcement personnel to keep ahead of attempted fraud. Digital components, such as smart card chips or magnetic stripes, add a third security dimension to ID card and license issuance systems. In addition, expanded data storage on the card can enable the inclusion of biometric and other information to enhance the validation process. It is generally accepted that multiple factors of authentication consisting of something you have (e.g., a card), something you know (e.g., a password), and something you are (e.g., a biometric) increases the probability that the person presenting his card at a reader is the same person that was initially issued the card. Smart cards enable this type of authentication. Card Issuance and Management While multiple layers of visual and digital security are critical to protect the integrity of each credential and cardholder, the integrity of the credentialing system requires that a layered security approach also be applied to the process of issuing valid cards. The same principles can be applied to a corporate card issuance system. www.SecurityInfoWatch.com The first security layer is to limit unauthorized operator access to physical components. Mechanical locks should restrict access to card printers, including card input and output hoppers and rejected cards. Physical locks should be placed on all access points to protect ribbon and film consumables. Electronic security is a critical second layer. Ideally, operator access to each printer is controlled via PIN. Print job data packets should meet or exceed advanced encryption standards to ensure system privacy, integrity and authentication to the final issuance endpoint. An often-overlooked third layer is to ensure automatic elimination of personal data on used print ribbon panels. Some printers also increase security with integrated sensors that only permit the use of custom print ribbons and holographic card over-laminates in authorized printers. Technology Opens New Opportunity The combined technologies that are making credentials more secure are also opening roads to greater utility for the issuing entity, and convenience for cardholders. The integration of enhanced digital capabilities into card issuance systems creates opportunities, such as: • Cross-application usage within territory. A single card can be issued that provides access to multiple services and facilities within a licensing zone, reducing the need for multiple cards and authentication processes. • Borderless credentials. Government entities can work together to create credentials that work within city, state, provincial and even international borders; thus simplifying the ID verification processes for travelers. • Greater flexibility in issuance alternatives. The use of smart card technology and the latest printing solutions give card issuance systems greater flexibility to issue cards from a centralized processing facility or from multiple distributed facilities throughout a region or country. • Expedited credential status updates. Systems using smart card technology can manage real-time privilege approval, changes or cancellation. This is a critical advantage for systems that store detailed cardholder records. • Enhanced responsiveness in emergencies. Victims and emergency response personnel moving into and out of crisis zones may be identified, and their ID cards validated using handheld readers, with communications technology enabling real-time reporting to crisis management teams. This can also be a great help in an emergency mustering situation. ❚ "Over time, cards and licenses have evolved from a simple photo ID to include sophisticated elements that enable more trustworthy visual authentication while acting as deterrents to tampering and forgery. " Alan Fontanella is Vice President of product marketing, secure issuance, for HID Global Corp. To request more information about HID and its products, please visit www.securityinfowatch.com/10213866. SECURITY TECHNOLOGY EXECUTIVE • January/February 2013 27