Datakey Axis stops Scob virus from stealing passwords
06 July, 2004
category: Biometrics
Organizations using Datakey Axis technology and its two-factor authentication were able to protect their passwords from falling prey to the recently discovered “Scob virus” that, on infected computers, is able to record those passwords as they’re keyed into web sites when users log on.
MINNEAPOLIS, June 30 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ – Datakey, Inc. (OTC Bulletin Board: DKEY – News; http://www.datakey.com ), a leading provider of information security products that simplify and secure authentication to corporate information systems, says its Datakey Axis(TM) technology protects mid- to large-sized organizations from the recently detected “Scob virus.” Datakey Axis is a complete two-factor authentication software and smart card solution that locks digital credentials, such as passwords, onto a single smart card or USB token.
“The Scob virus records the passwords keyed into websites as users log on. Datakey Axis’ two-factor authentication means that users never enter their password via the keyboard,” said Tim Russell, CEO of Datakey. “Instead, a USB token or smart card containing all of their usernames and passwords is unlocked when the user enters the PIN. Datakey Axis automatically retrieves the appropriate password from the smart card and supplies it directly to the application, so security is not compromised by the keying in of passwords. Without the card or USB token, the PIN is useless.”
The Scob virus is a new way to distribute malicious code that has been found to target a recent version of Microsoft software for operating Web sites. Hackers made almost undetectable changes to the Web site so visitors pick up code that retrieves software that records a person’s keystrokes. In turn, this keystroke information is collected and delivered remotely to the authors of the virus. This information can include passwords, credit card numbers and bank accounts, making this an especially dangerous virus. Now that the mechanism has been publicized, it is likely that other hackers will use the virus to grab secure passwords and other protected information.
About Datakey Axis
Datakey Axis is a complete software and smart card solution that delivers simplified and secure Single Sign-On (SSO) for a full range of enterprise applications and network resources including password management, host authentication, Windows log-on, VPN access, Web authorization, desktop security, corporate badge and building access, biometric integration, public key encryption, digital certificates and digital signatures. For more information, please visit http://www.datakey.com , or call 888-328-2539.
About Datakey, Inc.
Datakey Inc. delivers intelligent solutions that strengthen security and simplify user identification. Datakey Axis is a strong authentication and single sign-on solution that locks each user’s digital credentials onto a smart card or USB token. Easy to install and maintain, Datakey Axis fortifies security with two-factor authentication and automated enforcement of strong password policies.
This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The actual results may differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of many factors, including but not limited to our belief in Datakey Axis’ ability to protect against Internet viruses. Such statements involve a number of risks and uncertainties. Among the important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those indicated by such forward-looking statements are delays in product development, undetected software errors or bugs, competitive pressures, technical difficulties, changes in customer requirements, as well as the cautionary statements set forth under the heading “Factors That Could Affect Future Results” included in Datakey’s most recent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. All forward-looking statements are qualified by, and should be considered in conjunction with, such cautionary statements. These forward- looking statements speak only as of the date on which they are made.
Datakey is a registered trademark and Datakey Axis is a trademark of Datakey, Inc.
