General Dynamics locks down Android, demos ultra-secure LG Optimus 3D Max
General Dynamics doesn't exactly make the sexiest gear in the world. But, it sure has this secure gadget thing on lockdown. The NSA contractor is moving to ensure that Android is as snoop proof as can be with its new GD Protected software. The heart of the system is a sandboxed virtual instance of Android that delivers the sort of security features demanded by governments and the military (and some particularly paranoid businesses). That isolated OS runs alongside a standard Android install that you can use for personal purposes, while keeping your sensitive data on the secure side -- not unlike BlackBerry Balance. There's two layers of encryption separating the virtual install from the standard one, along with hardware security provided by Fixmo. The company has worked with LG, the DoD and the USMC to build a customized version of the Optimus 3D Max to showcase how the software works. The device even has a dedicated button that lets you quickly and seamlessly switch between the personal and secure personas, indicated by green and red borders, respectively. If you're not really keen on equipping your foot soldiers with last year's mediocre LG handset (and have no need for super secure stereoscopic snapshots) then you'll probably be happy to hear that General Dynamics will be bringing GD Protected to the Galaxy S III as well. The platform has been integrated into Samsung's own security solution, dubbed KNOX, and will be available sometime in Q2 of this year. For a few more details, check out the video demo and PR after the break.
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Mobile World Congress 2013 - General Dynamics Demonstrates First Commercial Smartphone with Virtualization-based Security for Mobile Enterprises
Product: New GD Protected, dual-persona smartphone by General Dynamics
Web address: www.gdc4s.com/GDProtected
On-site contact: Marti Konstant; Cellphone: 312-933-0101; Email: marti@ok-labs.com
Overview:
General Dynamics' first GD Protected dual-persona, secure smartphone delivers both secure communication and access to commercial smartphone services using the same handset.
Hands-on demonstrations of the new GD Protected smartphone will take place during the Mobile World Congress and will include an opportunity for interested IT experts to register to evaluate the new smartphones for their mobile workers. Demonstrations will take place throughout the three-day event at the General Dynamics meeting room in Hall 2- 2MR250.
How it works:
The OKL4 Microvisor, combined with other information security and related technologies from GD Protected, delivers what military, government and enterprise mobile users have been searching for: security, smartphone functionality and affordability in one device.
Key features and capabilities:
Ability to host independent virtual machines for enterprise/trusted and personal/open independent guest operating systems and complete software stacks, including multiple, different instances of Android® and applications;
Dual-persona security, with seamless switching between personal/open and enterprise/trusted operating modes;
Protection and security in the enterprise 'persona,' while enabling full freedom and privacy on the personal side of the device;
Two layers of encryption separate the virtual machines' processing of data in transit and data at rest;
Device-level attestation from Fixmo provides an added layer of security that extends below the operating system; and
ARM Cortex™-A15 processor support for hardware virtualization.
About GD Protected
General Dynamics' GD Protected solutions deliver unprecedented security for commercial smartphones, tablets and applications, including the data stored on them. Designed for the mobile workforce in government, military and regulated enterprises, secure mobility solutions let users securely access restricted as well as open networks, talk, text and video conference – all while using one commercial smartphone, handset or tablet with the superior user experience people expect. Detailed information about this and other products with GD Protected technologies are available at www.gdc4s.com/GDProtected.
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General Dynamics to Deliver Enhanced Security for Samsung Mobile Devices
With GD Protected, mobile workers in government, military and regulated enterprises can talk, text, video conference and access secure networks while enjoying full commercial smartphone experience using the same device.
BARCELONA, Spain – Mobile World Congress 2013 - General Dynamics today announced a strategic partnership with Samsung to incorporate its "GD Protected" technology into Samsung GALAXY devices running the Samsung KNOX™. Samsung KNOX is an end-to-end secure platform that provides security hardening from the hardware to the application layer. GD Protected provides unprecedented security for commercial smartphones, tablets and applications, including the data stored on mobile devices. Customers who buy the new Samsung KNOX enabled devices can also purchase the GD Protected technology, enabling mobile workers to access the public Internet and secure enterprise networks using a single, secure, commercial off-the-shelf Samsung device. GD Protected technology for Samsung KNOX enabled devices will be available in the second quarter of 2013.
"General Dynamics has been securing the nation's most sensitive information for more than 50 years, which means the technology we deliver to Samsung KNOX enabled devices can be trusted to the highest levels," said Chris Marzilli, president, General Dynamics C4 Systems. "Whether they are connected to their employer's secure network or mapping an address using the Internet, mobile workers will have the same experience that they have come to expect when using their personal smartphones."
"We are pleased to partner with General Dynamics, a world leader in defense-grade security products," said Dr. Injong Rhee, senior vice president, Technology Strategy and B2B R&D group for Samsung Electronics. "The Samsung KNOX solution with GD Protected will deliver unprecedented end-to-end security solutions to our customers in the public sector and regulated industries."
Demonstrations of the GD Protected technology will take place during the Mobile World Congress in the Samsung booth Hall 3 Stand 3B94 or by visiting suite Hall 2 MR250. To schedule a one-on-one demonstration during the Mobile World Congress, call: +1 888-897-3148 or send your request to marti@ok-labs.com.
About secure mobility solutions from General Dynamics
GD Protected secure mobility solutions deliver unprecedented security for commercial smartphones, tablets and applications, including the data stored on them. Designed for the mobile workforce in government, military and regulated enterprises, General Dynamics' GD Protected solutions let users securely access restricted and open networks to talk, text and video conference – all while using one commercial smartphone, handset or tablet with the superior user experience people expect. Additional information about the features and capabilities of GD Protected technology is available at www.gdc4s.com/gdprotected.
General Dynamics C4 Systems, a business unit of General Dynamics (NYSE: GD), has been providing information security technology, products and systems to the U.S. government, military and industry customers for more than 50 years with more than 300,000 trusted encryption devices in place worldwide.
More information about General Dynamics is available online at www.generaldynamics.com.
