Tamper detection is a device’s ability to sense, via interrogation by a Near Field Communication reader, that an active attempt to compromise its integrity, or the data associated with that device, is in progress. Medical devices, utility meters and other electronic systems require a robust method of sensing unauthorized tampering, and of protecting the system and its data if such tampering occurs. The immediate detection of threats may enable a device to initiate appropriate and swift defensive actions.
In medical devices, impaired performance resulting from a tampering event could cause serious harm to patients. Tampering in meters could be a deceitful act leading to a loss of revenue for a utility company. A secure, permanent means of detecting tampering in devices is thus of critical importance. With that in mind, Identiv discusses a single-chip solution offering cryptographic security, tamper detection and battery-free sensing. (4 pages)