Development of Common Platform for New Generation Smart Card Systems

The current situation of smart cards being used is one where each industry or card issuer has their own mutually non-compatible card specifications and the mutual use among differing smart card systems is difficult. This project will attempt to systematically unify the existing multiple card specifications. By developing a platform system for smart cards based on advanced architecture that can function with new function demands and various security levels, we aim to create an environment that can be seen as an information platform that can be used safely, conveniently, and continually by the users. Specifically, we will realize an smart card system that will make possible mutual operation of services among multiple card issuers and card service providers that had been difficult in the existing smart card systems. We will also be able to assure compatibility with various existing smart card systems and continuity with any future smart cards. For the smart cards themselves, we will strengthen security functions by performing security processing inside the cards such as key generation and digital signatures and creating firewall functions that will secure the independence of the applications installed on the card. We will develop smart cards that contain platforms which are not issuer specific and those where the functions of the individual applications and encryption methods can be added by downloading. By developing a platform system for new generation smart cards, we believe that there will be the following multiplier effect and social impact: • Reduction in the unit costs of cards and system costs because the development of specific cards and systems will no longer be necessary. • Service cooperation and area expansion between card systems is made easier. • The loading of multiple services (for example, public and private services) on a single card can become widespread. • Expectation of the rise of new services and businesses by coordination between multiple services.