Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

What is a GSMK CryptoPhone?
GSMK CryptoPhones are cellular, desktop or satellite phones that provide security against anyone listening in on your calls. To set up a secure call, both parties need to use a GSMK CryptoPhone.

What threats does the GSMK CryptoPhone protect against?
The GSMK CryptoPhones were designed to offer security against anyone who tries to listen into your calls, both inside the telephone network and on the air. The GSMK CryptoPhone provides end-to-end security so the call is fully encrypted all the way between two GSMK CryptoPhones.

Today`s complex telephone systems make it impossible to predict what path a phone call takes inside the network. Calls are routinely transported over unencrypted directional microwave radio links that are subject to easy interception with even modest equipment. In order to save costs, calls are frequently routed through networks or operators that might have dubious security standards. Your whole business confidentiality might get compromised by a single corrupt phone company employee. There exists a device known as IMSI-Catcher which allows anyone to listen into mobile phone calls. IMSI-Catchers are readily available on the market and are being used with increasing frequency.
All these threats can be eliminated by using the GSMK CryptoPhone.

How do I know that the GSMK CryptoPhone is right for me?
When you are operating with sensitive information that could possibly cause danger or damage to you or your clients if compromised, the GSMK CryptoPhone is right for you.
If you ever have talked on the phone and thought "let's hope that this call has not been intercepted by someone", the GSMK CryptoPhone is right for you.
If you have ever talked about a deal worth a million dollars or more on the phone, the GSMK CryptoPhone is right for you.
If you've worried that another party could have the motive and means to attempt to 'bug' your phone, the GSMK CryptoPhone is right for you.

What are your typical customers?
Typical customers are military, intelligence organizations, law enforcement, government officials (both elected and appointed), corporate executives, lawyers, accountants, bankers, mergers & acquisition specialists, consultants (management, tax, security, etc.), journalists, doctors, private investigators and other people who simply prefer to communicate in private.

So why should I buy your crypto phone?

• It offers the best cryptographic security available on the market.
• It is very easy to use.
• The source code of the firmware is published, meaning it is under constant review by experts for security.
• It has been developed without any government interference and does not provide any third party access to the encrypted communication or key material.
• It is an affordable solution for those at risk
• A Free Windows program to turn any PC into a GSMK CryptoPhone-compatible secure landline phone is available.
• It is based on standard hardware, which allows you to buy accessories at normal market prices.

The team that built the crypto-phone has spent the better part of fifteen years thinking about it. During this time, they have brainstormed with the top security people around the globe on how to do it right. One thing was clear from the start: the computer code behind the system must be available to the cryptographic/academic community (and to the public at large) to allow flaws and backdoors to be discovered and fixed as fast as possible. As far as we know, there is no secure cellular, landline, or satellite phone on the market that offers this extremely important feature.

What is the difference between the G10i and CP300?
The CP300 is a full Windows Mobile device, with touchpad and keyboard with Encrypted SMS. The G10i is a sleek phone running a different version of Windows Mobile, and does not have a touchpad. Both phones offer the same functionality for secure calls, but differ in form factor for users individual needs.

What are AES and Twofish, and why should I care?
AES and Twofish are algorithms for encrypting (i.e. scrambling) data.
They have been put to rigorous scrutiny by the cryptographic community, and have no known weaknesses. Combining both of the most secure algorithms means you are 'future proof' if a problem occurs with one of the algorithms, reducing it's security.

Aren't I protected if I use 3G mobiles?
No, you are not protected. Unfortunately, methods to provide similar 'active' attacks on 3G are already available, The same companies who developed interceptors for 2G phones have developed models specifically for 3G. These units start from $150,000 AUD. In addition, even if 3G was secure, your conversation is still vulnerable across the network, and at the other end of the call. Cryptophones ensure that your call cannot be monitored at any point, and the breadth of services (fixed line, VoIP, mobile, satellite) mean that you can provide security over any call you need to make.

What is the difference between Cryptophone and downloadable encryption software?
Cryptophone provides a secure operating system, as well as secure voice encryption. The potential use of cell phone forensics software or installed malicious software reduces the confidence provided in a software only solution. The hardened operating system used on Cryptophones allows the user to disable key vulnerabilities found on the standard mobile phone. In addition, we provide full support for all our products.

What if my Government body or company is outside Australia and we want to buy a Cryptophone, Is that allowed?
Yes, The GSMK Cryptophone is considered a restricted item to many governments and we do require to authenticate who the purchasing party is via a end-user certificate. Please contact ESD for further details.