Dematerialising cards: Going beyond convenience

Vincent Dupart, CEO of STid, delves into the advantages of dematerialising cards and how the market could change in the future.

What is the history of Stid’s expertise in dematerialisation of cards?  

Since 1996, STid has dedicated itself to developing top-level security solutions for identification through robust, interoperable readers compatible with the highest secure credentials.

Over time, we realised that security isn’t about a single device—it’s a chain, of vital components, depicting a whole.  

As the digital era advanced, what could be more natural for STid, with its innovative spirit, than to anticipate the technological shift toward the dematerialisation of identification?    

Thus, while physical badges were the standard, STid took a different path, opting for virtual badges with simplicity without compromising.

This led to the launch of our STid Mobile ID platform in 2014, which we’ve continuously enhanced to meet and exceed European standards, earning the prestigious EN17640 certification.

This certification is gold because it encompasses three major security goals:  

·  Data protection – Advanced encryption and secure protocols protect data between the reader and mobile device 

·  Fraud resistance – Our devices are tested for resilience against cloning, hacking and identity theft 

·  Interoperability and performance – EN17640 compliance means our systems work smoothly across various environments 

Today, our STid Mobile ID app is central to comprehensive security solutions, as shown in recent projects. For instance, in the Icelandic Parliament, we provided secure, intuitive access control from car parks to sensitive areas, even integrating payment options for the canteen.

In smart buildings, our app enables controlled visitor access by metering entry times.

And at the Mucem, we helped create a digital ticketing system that gives visitors access to culture for just €2 a month through the app.   

By completing the certification of the new platform STid Mobile ID, no words needed, we have the recognition of the certification.  

What is the process of dematerialising a card?  

The dematerialisation process is straightforward but highly secure. To “dematerialise” an access card, we transfer access credentials onto a digital platform and then encrypt and store them on your mobile device.

With our STid Mobile ID platform, which is the first in its field to be certified under the European EN17640 directive, your smartphone or connected watch essentially becomes a secure digital access card.  

EN17640 certification isn’t just symbolic; it’s a critical assurance that our solution adheres to rigorous security standards.

It’s a testament to our commitment to safeguarding user credentials against cyber threats, securing the entire access process from start to finish.   

What are the benefits of this process?  

Dematerialising access cards provides a range of benefits that go beyond convenience:  

• Enhanced security: Digital credentials are secured with multi-layered protection, including encryption, biometrics and the high standards upheld by EN17640 certification. This reduces the risks associated with lost or stolen physical cards  

• Convenience: Users no longer need to carry physical cards—access is readily available through their smartphones or wearables 

• Scalability and control: Access rights can be remotely updated, suspended, or removed without reissuing new cards 

• Eco-Friendly: Dematerialisation eliminates plastic card production, reducing waste and supporting sustainability 

These advantages collectively represent a leap forward in the security and usability of access control solutions.  

How has the development of this technology changed the security game?  

Digital access control has redefined security standards by combining convenience with uncompromised security.

The STid Mobile ID platform exemplifies this shift.

It’s the first platform certified with the EN17640 standard, which is a significant achievement and establishes a new reference for digital badge security.  

Our history with access control certifications—beginning with ANSSI certification for our solutions, including the first certified reader and the SSCP protocol—has prepared us for this milestone.

Certification of the STid Mobile ID was a natural evolution in our dedication to secure access solutions.    

Meeting EN17640 standards confirms that our platform can withstand even the most advanced cyber threats.

We prioritise securing the entire access control chain, from infrastructure to mobile devices, ensuring data protection throughout.

We also ensure that all data remains within Europe, on platforms compliant with GDPR, SecNumCloud and ISO 27001 standards.

By raising the bar in these areas, STid is redefining digital access control, positioning itself as a trusted partner in high-security access solutions.  

What role will STid play in this field moving forward?  

STid is poised to continue leading the digital access control sector, focusing on combining convenience with the highest security standards.

With the STid Mobile ID application certified under EN17640, we’ve established a strong foundation for secure, adaptable and eco-friendly solutions.  

Looking forward, we aim to push the boundaries of access control innovation and reliability, making it easier for organisations worldwide to adopt secure, flexible and sustainable solutions.  

STid’s role will be to continually set new standards for certified access control solutions, paving the way for what security in this field should look like in the future. 

This article was originally published in the December Edition of Security Journal UK. To read your FREE digital edition, click here.