DEFENCE MEDIA RELEASE

CLASSIFIED INFORMATION NOW MORE PORTABLE AND SECURE

The Defence Signals Directorate has made an important step in further assuring classified information is now more portable and secure with its completed evaluation of an Australian designed hardware-based encryption product.

The Directorate has completed a high-grade evaluation of the West Australian based Secure Systems’ Silicon Data Vault^® hardware security system that enables greater portability and protection of classified information.

“The increasing demand by government departments and agencies for the ability to securely carry classified information on portable electronic documents, coupled with changing threats to Information Communication Technology led us to investigate products that would better meet these needs,” said Ian McKenzie, Director of the Defence Signals Directorate.

“The Australian designed Silicon Data Vault^® is one of the few products available on the Australian market that is suitable for the storage and protection of information on laptops at the higher classification levels.

“The successful evaluation is an important step in not only the protection of classified electronic information, but also government’s ability to transport this type of information securely.

The information security system underwent a battery of tests during the evaluation process. The Silicon Data Vault^® had already completed a Common Criteria evaluation at the Evaluation Assurance Level (EAL) 2 and a DSD cryptographic evaluation enabling it to secure information to RESTRICTED level. With some minor enhancements the product is now able to be used in systems that protect the higher classification levels.

“A critical gap in the information security market has been filled with Silicon Data Vault^® successfully completing Defence Signals Directorate evaluation.

“This evaluation also highlights Defence’s ongoing commitment to working with and supporting Australian industry,” Mr McKenzie said.

For further information about the Defence Signals Directorate visit www.dsd.gov.au

For further information on Secure Systems visit www.securesystems.com.au

Media contact: Defence Media Liaison (02) 6265 3343 or (0408) 498 664

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