Gemalto (Euronext NL 0000400653 GTO), the world leader in digital security, has launched its Ezio Plug & Sign device into the South African market.
The Ezio Plug & Sign is a high security online transaction device targeted primarily at the corporate banking sector and protects online transactions against wire transfer fraud. It is a zero footprint device requiring no software installation on any type of computer.
Commenting on the introduction of the device Frederic Guillou, Secure Transactions manager for Southern Africa at Gemalto, said: Wire transfer and online fraud are on the rise, and many corporate banking customers need to be better protected. Ezio Plug & Sign was designed to answer the specific needs of the South African market, where secure, convenient and future proof solutions are needed to secure online banking operations. It does so in a quick, easy and elegant solution for banks and their customers,"
South African Banking Risk Information Centre's (SABRIC) latest report shows that card not present (CNP) fraud, which includes online banking fraud, increased by 16% in South Africa in 2012 and contributed to 51% of the total credit card fraud losses. With over 50 million people across Africa using online banking services and online fraud becoming increasingly sophisticated, the convenience provided by the digital channel to transact online needs to be combined with improved security measures.
The Ezio solution provides a secure web browser for online banking to overcome the inherent risks of an open online environment. In addition, Ezio Plug & Sign provides the ability to extend other user services including secure email, secure account management and secure statement viewing.
Easy to use - the user simply plugs Ezio Plug & Sign into the USB port of a PC or a Mac, whatever browser is installed, and the device launches a "safe zone" that permits the user to securely review, approve and sign all types and amounts of banking transactions within a protected online environment. With Ezio Plug & Sign, corporate users and highest level of consumers can safely log into any online banking session and be assured of the session integrity even if the computer they connect from may be at risk of being compromised.
PKI-ready, Ezio Plug & Sign works on all computers; it integrates a smart card secure microprocessor and operating system, and is built on Gemalto's Ezio technology already used by more than 70 million bank customers worldwide. This upgradeable, multi-application platform can be remotely managed, enabling banks to update certificates and deploy new services and applications without the need for new hardware.
Gemalto delivers a complete solution that also includes full provisioning of the devices to corporate users and consumers, as well as professional services to customize the branding of the applications. Ezio Plug & Sign provides a positive, consistent, safe banking experience to users, which reduces the need for helpdesk support, saving time and cost for the South African banks.