DigiCert Selected by USB-IF to Operate Managed PKI for USB Type-C™ Authentication

Optional security protocol allows USB Type-C™ OEMs to protect against malicious payloads and harmful power surges from non-compliant USB devices

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DigiCert, Inc.

Nov 13, 2018, 10:00 ET

LEHI, Utah, Nov. 13, 2018 /PRNewswire/ -- DigiCert, Inc., the world's leading provider of TLS/SSL, PKI and IoT security solutions, has been selected by USB Implementers Forum (USB-IF) to operate registration and certificate authority services for the USB Type-C™ Authentication specification. Using cryptographic-based authentication, the optional security protocol is designed to further strengthen USB Type-C's position as the global standard for connecting and charging devices.

USB Type-C Authentication gives OEMs the opportunity to use certificates that enable host systems to confirm the authenticity of a USB device or USB charger, including such product aspects as the descriptors, capabilities and certification status. This protects against potential damage from non-compliant USB chargers and the risks from maliciously embedded hardware or software in devices attempting to exploit a USB connection.

"USB Type-C adoption continues to grow and the interface is quickly establishing itself as the solution of choice for connecting and charging an endless variety of devices," said Jeff Ravencraft, USB-IF President and COO. "USB-IF is eager to work with DigiCert to manage our certificate authority for USB Type-C Authentication, which will further support the USB ecosystem."

"DigiCert is excited about being chosen to provide PKI services for the USB-IF, and the opportunity to advance secure authentication for the USB Type-C Authentication specification," said Deepika Chauhan, executive vice president of emerging markets at DigiCert. "DigiCert looks forward to working with the more than 1,000 member companies of the USB-IF and the industry as a whole."

DigiCert has proven to be the provider of choice for IoT device consortiums implementing certificate-based security programs. In addition to USB-IF, DigiCert is also in use by the WiMAX Forum, CI Plus, GSMA, WinnForum/CBRS, the Open Connectivity Foundation and AeroMACS. DigiCert's scalability has stood the test of time, having already issued billions of certificates globally for IoT devices.

For more information about the USB Type-C Authentication specification, visit https://www.usb.org/sites/default/files/article_files/USB_Type-C_Authentication_PR_FINAL.pdf.

USB Type-C™ and USB-C™ are trademarks of USB Implementers Forum.

About DigiCert, Inc.

DigiCert is the world's leading provider of scalable PKI solutions for identity and encryption. The most innovative companies, including the Global 2000, choose DigiCert for its expertise in identity and encryption for web servers and Internet of Things devices. DigiCert supports TLS/SSL and other digital certificates for PKI deployments at any scale through its certificate lifecycle management platform, CertCentral®. The company has been recognized with dozens of awards for its enterprise-grade management platform, fast and knowledgeable customer support, and market-leading growth. For the latest DigiCert news and updates, visit digicert.com or follow @digicert.

SOURCE DigiCert, Inc.