Snapdragon 820 processor is the first mobile system-on-a-chip to receive Level 2 FIPS 140-2 HW certification

Qualcomm today announced that its flagship Snapdragon 820 processor is the first mobile system-on-a-chip (SoC) to receive FIPS 140-2 Level 2 HW certification, a feat any military or government affiliate would likely salute. Cryptographic modules are responsible for cryptographic functions, such as encryption, digital signatures, and authentication methods. Information protected by the cryptographic module, including passwords, personal biometric information, mobile payments, and secure communications, is well guarded.
While FIPS 140-2 Level 1 certification focuses on a standard level of compliance, Level 2 concentrates on a tougher authentication implementation and physical protection of the plaintext cryptographic keys and critical security parameters within the module. To meet the requirement, modules need to have tamper-evident seals or pick-resistant locks that are designed to prevent clever hackers from stealing information. The certification will help customers recognize products based on a higher level of security. For end users, obtaining advanced security features is as easy as checking to see if a mobile device has the Snapdragon 820 processor.