Licel vTEE Receives EMVCo Approval for Android and iOS
The global payments authority has recognized Licel's innovative virtual trusted execution environment for Android and iOS, heralding a new chapter in mobile security.
Licel, known for its cutting-edge mobile channel protection solutions, has proudly announced the evaluation and subsequent approval of its Virtual Trusted Execution Environment (vTEE) by EMVCo for the iOS platform. This significant milestone means that the Licel vTEE, the first TEE to gain such recognition from EMVCo, is now certified for both major mobile operating systems.
As a result of this approval, developers are empowered to utilize Trusted Applications (TAs) on both Android and iOS platforms, allowing them to concentrate on their engineering tasks with peace of mind regarding application security.
Significance of the Approval
The Licel vTEE is already making strides in providing robust security for forward-thinking companies, particularly in sectors such as mobile wallets and SoftPOS. In a mobile payments market projected to exceed $221.2 billion by 2030, enhanced security measures are essential. The vTEE's adaptable, developer-friendly, and scalable design means it can be implemented across various industries requiring a high level of security for sensitive mobile app activities.
Words from Leadership
Licel's co-founder and CTO, Mikhail Dudarev, expressed his excitement about the vTEE's evaluation and approval for both Android and iOS. "For over a decade, we've strived for excellence in mobile security, and this acknowledgment from a prestigious organization like EMVCo validates our vision. Given today's advanced cyber threats, security methods like the vTEE are imperative. Our aim was to simplify security for developers, which we achieved through its cross-platform compatibility and absence of hardware dependency. This flexibility eliminates hardware vendor lock-in, facilitating easier deployment while also supporting custom Trusted Applications with expanded functionalities."
Role of EMVCo
EMVCo is a leading global technical body, collectively owned by American Express, Discover, JCB, Mastercard, UnionPay, and Visa. It plays an integral role in establishing security evaluation processes for companies focused on software-based mobile payment solutions. The EMVCo SBMP TEE evaluation process is rigorous, ensuring compliance with Global Platform TEE standards. Jose Ruiz, Cybersecurity BU Director at Applus+ Laboratories, the evaluating lab for the Licel vTEE, commended the solution for achieving evaluation and approval twice in 2024. Ruiz noted, "We evaluated the Licel vTEE for Android earlier this year, and to replicate that for iOS in less than a year is remarkable. We celebrate groundbreaking solutions like Licel’s vTEE completing the evaluation process successfully and becoming available to clients."
About Licel and Applus+ Laboratories
Licel stands as a pioneer and global leader in mobile channel protection, providing security solutions in 75 countries and securing thousands of apps and SDKs on over 500 million devices.
Applus+ Laboratories is recognized worldwide in the testing, inspection, and certification sector with a focus on IT security and functional evaluations of secure technologies.
For inquiries or more information, contact Tom Cross, Head of Content and Communications at Licel, via email or call +44 2032 894 888.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Licel vTEE?
The Licel vTEE is a virtual trusted execution environment designed to enhance mobile security for applications on both Android and iOS platforms.
Why is EMVCo approval significant?
EMVCo approval signifies that the Licel vTEE meets stringent security standards required for mobile payment solutions, ensuring reliability for developers and users alike.
What industries can benefit from Licel vTEE?
Industries such as mobile payments, financial services, and any sector needing secure mobile applications can benefit significantly from Licel's vTEE.
How does the vTEE improve application development?
By ensuring robust security features, the vTEE allows developers to focus on building innovative applications without worrying about security vulnerabilities.
Who is responsible for evaluating the vTEE?
Applus+ Laboratories is the organization that evaluated the Licel vTEE in accordance with EMVCo standards, ensuring its compliance and security performance.
