The A98 method provides an innovative and patented approach for establishing a unique initial key in ATMs. Instead of generating a key and then splitting it into components or generating components and assigning these components to a specific ATM, the A98 process does not create or assign the new key until the point at which two components are actually loaded into the ATM. This eliminates the logistical problems and costs normally associated with compliant key management.

1 A quantity of randomly-generated key component values are printed on tamper evident Comvelopes™, "component envelopes", which are similar to laser pin mailers. These comvelopes are distributed to the ATM sites or given to service personnel.

2 The component values in each comvelope are encrypted and loaded into the A98 database, referenced by the comvelope control number.

3 To establish a new or replacement key in the ATM, any combination of two employees or servicers each select a random comvelope and enter the component value into the ATM according to the manufacturer's instructions. The ATM combines the two components to form an initial key that is both unique and secret.

4 Each servicer dials the voice response unit of the A98, enters their user id and passcode, then reports the comvelope control number along with the ATM ID.

5 The A98 unit now has the reference numbers for the components that have been entered into the ATM. A98 retrieves and decrypts the component values and combines them to form a key identical to the one now in the ATM.

6 A98 encrypts this new key using a KEK, key encrypting key, that has been established with the host ATM software application.

7 The A98 system sends this cryptogram of the newly created, unique ATM key to the host application using an ISO-8583 message. The host application parses the message, decrypts the key, and updates its ATM database.

8 When the ATM is turned on and connects to the host, it is sent a new PIN encryption key, which is encrypted by the newly-created, unique initial key.



Related documents:

A98 System Description (PDF 486 KB)
A98 Users Guide (PDF 2,337 KB)
A98 Servicer Guide (PDF 195 KB)
A98 VRU Guide (PDF 37 KB)

| Home | About Us | ATM Solutions | Other Products | Training & Consulting | Resources | Contact Us |
| Legal Notice | Site Map |

Trusted Security Solutions, Inc.
704.849.0036
info@trustedsecurity.com