ISO/IEC 7816-15:2016/Amd 1:2018

Overview

ISO/IEC 7816-15:2016/Amd 1:2018 is an international amendment to the ISO/IEC 7816-15:2016 standard that focuses on cryptographic information applications for identification cards featuring integrated circuit cards (contact cards). Developed by ISO/IEC Joint Technical Committee 1 (JTC 1), Subcommittee 17 (SC 17), this amendment introduces significant updates to the cryptographic key structures and ASN.1 definitions related to private and public keys used in smart card technology.

This standard is essential for organizations and manufacturers involved in the design, development, and implementation of secure identification systems utilizing integrated circuit cards with embedded cryptographic functionalities. It ensures interoperability and security compliance across smart card applications worldwide.

Key Topics

• Cryptographic Key Definitions
  The amendment updates the ASN.1 definitions for PrivateKeyChoice and PublicKeyChoice, expanding the types of cryptographic keys supported, including RSA, EC (Elliptic Curve), DH (Diffie-Hellman), DSA (Digital Signature Algorithm), KEA (Key Exchange Algorithm), and generic keys. This supports a broader range of cryptographic mechanisms important for secure communications and authentication.

• Flexible Key Attributes
  It introduces the concept of OtherGenericKeyAttributes, allowing for future extensions and diverse key representations. This flexibility is critical for evolving cryptographic standards and new security requirements in smart cards.

• Referenced Values Usage
  The amendment clarifies the usage of KeyAttributes when used as Elementary File (EF) references in the smart card file system, enabling more standardized referencing of cryptographic keys stored on cards.

• Security and Interoperability Enhancements
  By refining cryptographic object structures and aligning key attribute definitions, the amendment enhances the security framework of integrated circuit cards and fosters interoperability among systems relying on cryptographic identification.

Applications

• Secure Identification Cards
  Government-issued IDs, passports, and employee access cards benefit from this standard by leveraging robust cryptographic applications embedded in integrated circuit chips for authentication and data protection.

• Financial Smart Cards
  Credit, debit, and prepaid cards utilize cryptographic keys to secure transactions and protect cardholder information, adhering to this updated standard helps ensure compliance with international security protocols.

• Authentication Systems
  Systems requiring multi-factor authentication and secure user identity verification deploy cryptographic keys as defined by this amendment to safeguard sensitive information.

• Mobile and IoT Devices
  Integrated circuit cards incorporated in mobile devices and IoT solutions use cryptographic applications for securing communications and access control, aligning with ISO/IEC 7816-15:2016/Amd 1:2018 facilitates uniform cryptographic standards.

Related Standards

• ISO/IEC 7816-1 to 14
  These parts cover general physical characteristics, electrical interface, commands, and security features for integrated circuit cards, complementing the cryptographic focus of Part 15.

• ISO/IEC 19790:2012
  Information technology security techniques - Security requirements for cryptographic modules, which relate to the cryptographic implementations addressed by the amendment.

• ISO/IEC 24727
  Programming interfaces for smart cards – this standard defines interfaces and protocols interoperable with the cryptographic structures specified in ISO/IEC 7816-15.

• ISO/IEC 11770 Series
  Key management techniques that complement the definition and management of cryptographic keys outlined in this amendment.

Conclusion

ISO/IEC 7816-15:2016/Amd 1:2018 provides critical updates to the cryptographic information application framework for integrated circuit identification cards, enabling stronger security and flexible key management. The amendment facilitates the evolution of smart card cryptography, supporting a wide range of applications from secure identity verification to financial transactions. Adopting this international standard amendment ensures interoperability, compliance, and enhanced trust in cryptographic integrated circuit card solutions.