iOS 6 obtains new security certification, becomes even safer

[RaduTyrsina]

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Apple’s iPhone has officially become one of the safest devices to use. The iconic Apple smartphone has just received this week the FIPS 140-2 certification from the National Institute of Standards and Technology’s Computer Security Division.

Security has become an important issue for Federal IT managers who fear security breaches due to the expanding numbers of iPhone and iPads out there. More and more agencies seem to be inclined to purchase Apple gear to use for their purposes within enterprises. But before purchasing anything managers usually make sure that cryptographic standards under FISMA aren’t being violated.

The tests which led to the certification were m​​ade on the iPhone 4, iPhone 4S and an iPad featuring iOS 6.0. The final report explains:

“Apple iOS CoreCrypto Kernel Module is a software cryptographic module running on a multi-chip standalone mobile device and provides services intended to protect data in transit and at rest.”

Even so, according to the FISMA standards, Apple might need to work on its security protocols, as it was awarded the Level 1 of Federal Information Processing Standard 140-2 – which is the lowest level. Knowing Apple – evolution in this department seems imminent.

Being FISMA certified might open a new set of opportunities for Apple. Already some government agencies have taken up iOS mobile devices and some have expressed their interest in them. But with this new certification, more governmental business might come Apple’s way.

Source: TUAW