CSCIP Body of Knowledge
Smart Card Fundamentals
- Basic smart card components, structure, functions
- IC types (memory, protected memory, microcontroller, RF)
- Card design and card body
- Formats (card, USB token, SIM, embedded, other)
- Communications interfaces (contact, contactless, dual interface)
- Memory size and types
- Operating systems (native, Java, Multos, other)
- Smart card system design features
- Manufacturing process
- Readers (POS, PC, access control)
- Relevant smart card standards
- Smart cards and biometrics
- Specifications
Security
- Certifications (FIPS, Common Criteria)
- IC level (anti-tampering, masking)
- Card edge interface
- Encryption algorithms
- Security at system level
- Physical
- Logical
Smart Card Application and Data Management
- Single application cards
- Multi-application cards
- Chip initialization
- Key management (symmetric, asymmetric)
- Issuance
- Card life cycle management
- Relevant standards
Smart Card Usage Models: Mobile and Near Field Communication
- Smart card drivers and benefits
- SIMs
- UICCs
- Near Field Communication
- Sample smart card mobile and subscriber models
Smart Card Usage Models: Identity and Security
- Smart card drivers and benefits
- Identity cards and tokens
- ePassports
- Physical/logical access
- Smart cards and biometrics
- Smart cards and digital certificates
- Sample smart card identity and security models
- Relevant standards
- Identity and security application examples
- Privacy
Smart Card Usage Models: Payments and Financial Transactions
- Smart card drivers and benefits
- Bank cards (credit, debit, prepaid, ATM)
- EMV credit/debit payment
- Contactless payments
- Mobile/NFC payments
- Secure remote transactions for online banking/retail e-commerce
- E-purse, stored value cards (open and closed loop)
- Transit payment
- Parking payment
- Sample smart card payment models
- Relevant standards
Other Topics: Technology Comparison and Implementation Considerations
- Contactless smart cards vs. RFID
- Other card technologies
- Project management considerations