Symantec Introduces Game Changer for Strong Authentication Credentials

VeriSign® Identity Protection (VIP) Authentication Service Leverages Intel® Identity Protection Technology (IPT) to Deliver a Unique and Innovative Approach to Strengthening Online Identities


MOUNTAIN VIEW, Calif. – – Symantec Corp. (Nasdaq: SYMC) today announced that it has worked with Intel Corporation to integrate Symantec’s VeriSign® Identity Protection (VIP) credential into the Intel® Identity Protection Technology (IPT) found in 2nd Generation Intel® Core™ processor platforms including Intel® Core™ vPro processors. Used in tandem with a username and password, this credential enables strong authentication to enterprise, partner and consumer applications. Intel IPT with VIP strong authentication will be available in March 2011 on select systems that include 2nd Generation Intel Core processors.1



By combining VIP with Intel IPT, a new class of strong authentication credential is now available to the enterprise and consumer PC users. This new credential form factor provides a highly secure, easy to use and cost-effective way to implement strong authentication. Because the credential is embedded in the Intel chipset, strong authentication within an enterprise environment has now become faster, cheaper and easier to manage. The need to purchase, replace or download credentials is now eliminated allowing enterprise IT departments to go from ‘zero to secure’ in record time.

The VIP service is the leading cloud-based authentication service that enables enterprises to secure online access and transactions to help obtain compliance and reduce fraud risk. A fully hosted strong authentication Security as a Service (SaaS) solution, VIP offers a cost-effective way to give legitimate users access to business resources, enterprise applications and websites while protecting against cyber criminals. VIP provides an additional layer of protection beyond standard username and password by requiring a dynamic one-time use six-digit security code generated by a user’s VIP credential.

With IPT, Intel has built a strong authentication capability directly into the chipsets of select 2nd Generation Intel Core processor-based PCs, helping to prevent unauthorized access to important personal accounts. Intel IPT is a powerful, additional layer of security available to link an end user’s PC to his or her online identity, decreasing the ability of thieves to access account information from non-associated computers. Combined with VIP, Intel IPT solution gives users the same high level of security that comes with standalone hardware tokens in a tokenless form factor while providing a cost-effective and easier way of implementing strong authentication.

“The combination of our proven VIP service with Intel IPT provides users with a new level of ‘built-in’ strong authentication that has never been available before or easier to use,” said Atri Chatterjee, vice president of User Authentication at Symantec. “By synchronizing VIP with the Intel chipset, we have created the first ever strong authentication credential that you will never see but will always have in your PC.”

“The Intel IPT platform with VIP demonstrates our dedication to providing superior performance and security for our customers,” said George Thangadurai, general manager of PC client services at Intel. “We are excited to work with Symantec to provide Intel enterprise and consumer customers with this strong authentication capability to help meet the security needs of today’s users.”

Identity Management Takes a Front Row Seat at RSA

At RSA Conference 2011, a panel discussion titled “Who Are You? When Security Hinges on Identity” will be moderated by Francis deSouza, senior vice president of the Enterprise Security Group at Symantec and includes George Thangadurai, general manager of PC client services at Intel. The panel discussion will be taking place on Thursday, February 14 at 4:00 p.m. in Moscone North Hall D. For more information and to see a demo, please visit Symantec booth #1426.

About Symantec

Symantec is a global leader in providing security, storage and systems management solutions to help consumers and organizations secure and manage their information-driven world. Our software and services protect against more risks at more points, more completely and efficiently, enabling confidence wherever information is used or stored. More information is available at www.symantec.com.


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1 No system can provide absolute security under all conditions. Requires an Intel IPT enabled system, including a 2nd generation Intel Core processor, enabled chipset, firmware and software. Available only on participating websites. Consult your system manufacturer. Intel assumes no liability for lost or stolen data and/or systems or any resulting damages.