Improved integrity and confidentiality of transmission and reception between IoT devices on the Sigfox network

STMicroelectronics (hereinafter ST) announced that it is expanding its STSAFE secure element product family by launching secure elements (SE) equipped with a powerful plug-and-play solution that provides state-of-the-art security features for devices connected to Sigfox's LPWAN (Low-Power Wide-Area Network).

ST's STSAFE-A1SX security device enhances the integrity and confidentiality of transmissions between IoT devices on a Sigfox network, based on tamper-proof Common Criteria EAL5+ certified SE technology. This security device powers optimized security applications by combining ST's proven e-security expertise in banking, e-commerce, and identity applications with Sigfox's networking and data communications expertise for the emerging IoT sector.




The STSAFE-A1SX is a cost-effective solution that connects to microcontrollers or modules for IoT applications via an I2C (Intelligent Interface Controller) connection. This chip provides device IDs and keys to enable plug-and-play secure connections from ST's secure issuance centers to the Sigfox cloud, while also guaranteeing data exchange integrity and confidentiality. Regardless of whether the frame message is uplink or downlink, the STSAFE-A1SX security element generates or verifies optional encryption and decryption, as well as payload integrity verification. Passwords and other secrets are always protected within the security element, not only during the manufacturing process but also until the end of the final device's lifespan.

Laurent Degauque, Senior Vice President of Security Microcontroller Marketing at ST’s Microcontroller and Digital IC Group, stated, “By running Sigfox security services within our certified tamper-proof STSAFE-A1SX, we support Sigfox Ready™ device manufacturers and Sigfox application vendors in implementing state-of-the-art end-to-end security,” and added, “STSAFE-A1SX enables the deployment of more robust and simpler security features across Sigfox networks. Customers can simply add this security element to general-purpose MCUs like the STM32 and focus on application development.”

Like other STSAFE products, STSAFE-A1SX is supported by a complete tool and software ecosystem that enables developers to deploy it quickly, even without professional security design expertise.