Secure access module
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A Secure Access Module (SAM), also known as a Secure Application Module, is a piece of cryptographic hardware typically used by smart card card readers to perform mutual key authentication.[1][2][3] SAMs can be used to manage access in a variety of contexts, such as public transport fare collection and point of sale devices.
Physically, a SAM card can be a SIM card plugged into a SAM slot in a card reader, or a fixed integrated circuit in a housing directly soldered on a printed circuit board. Generally, a reader system consists of a microcontroller and a reader IC to communicate over the RF interface with a contactless smartcard. The microcontroller takes the part of controlling the reader IC functions such as protocol handling, command flow and data interpretation. By integrating a SAM into the reader system, the SAM handles all the key management and cryptography in a secure way. The entire system enables authentication and encryption of the contactless communication between the SAM and host system.
SAMs can be deployed in any of the following applications:
- Generate application keys based on master keys
- Store and secure master keys
- Perform cryptographic functions with smart cards
- Use as a secure encryption device
- Perform mutual authentication
- Generate session keys
- Perform secure messaging
References
- ^ Al-Khouri, Ali M. (2013). Critical Insights from a Practitioner Mindset. Chartridge Books Oxford. p. 243. ISBN 978-1-909287-59-4.
- ^ "Fare Collection Systems - Secure application modules". www.ssatp.org. Retrieved 2024-05-02.
- ^ "What is a Secure Access Module (SAM)?". community.infineon.com. 2023-12-05. Retrieved 2024-05-02.
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