Mobile PKI is a flexible mobile electronic signature platform that allows for the execution of electronic signatures and access authorization using any mobile terminal (in particular, a mobile phone) in relation to any digital resources. Documents created in text editors, e-mail messages, official correspondence, or – currently submitted exclusively in electronic form – ZUS declarations can be signed, among others. Mobile PKI can also be used to authorize access to protected information or IT resources (e.g., websites, file servers, or databases) and to authorize payments in transaction systems – especially in banking systems.
The advantage of the awarded solution is ensuring the highest possible level of security and certainty regarding the signing, encryption, or timestamping operations performed with its participation. The cryptographic material (the so-called private key) in the mobile device is located directly on the SIM card and never leaves it; it is protected by PIN and PUK codes and the security policy applied by mobile network operators regarding their own infrastructure (of which SIM cards are an integral part).
The Mobile PKI platform – as noted in the justification of the Competition Jury’s verdict – has already been implemented in the meGINA software created for the National Police Headquarters in cooperation with PTK Centertel, the operator of the Orange network, and Wasko S.A., a supplier of mobile devices for the Police. The software provides access authorization for nearly 2,000 mobile handheld terminals used by Polish police officers across the country. Work is currently underway on further practical applications of Mobile PKI.
The Innovator of Lesser Poland 2008 competition aims to promote innovation in the business activities of companies in the Lesser Poland region. It is aimed at medium, small, and micro-enterprises that develop and implement modern technologies and innovative solutions in their operations. The organizer of the competition is the Technology Transfer Centre of the Cracow University of Technology. The honorary patronage over the third edition of the competition was held by: the Rector of the Cracow University of Technology, the Minister of Economy, the Voivode of Lesser Poland, and the Marshal of the Lesser Poland Voivodeship.