What are the FIPS 140-2 security levels?

FIPS 140-2 defines four security levels: Level 1 (basic security), Level 2 (tamper-evident), Level 3 (tamper-resistant), and Level 4 (tamper-responsive with environmental protection).

How does FIPS 140-2 apply to motorcycle security?

FIPS 140-2 applies to motorcycle security by providing standards for cryptographic modules in key systems, immobilizers, and security devices to ensure proper key management and tamper resistance.

What is tamper resistance?

Tamper resistance refers to the ability of cryptographic modules to detect and respond to physical tampering attempts, including tamper detection, tamper evidence, and tamper response mechanisms.

FIPS 140-2 Cryptographic Module Security Standards

Q: What is FIPS 140-2?

FIPS 140-2 is a U.S. government computer security standard that specifies security requirements for cryptographic modules, defining four security levels from Level 1 (basic) to Level 4 (highest security).

U.S. government computer security standard specifying security requirements for cryptographic modules, including four security levels, tamper resistance mechanisms, and cryptographic key management procedures for motorcycle security systems and hardware security modules.

Standard Overview

Publication Date

2001 (Current Standard)

Status

NIST Federal Standard

Application

Cryptographic Modules

Scope

Hardware & Software Security

FIPS 140-2 Security Levels

Level 1 - Basic Security

Software-Based Security

Basic security requirements for cryptographic modules

Approved cryptographic algorithms
Software-based implementation
Basic key management

Level 2 - Tamper-Evident

Physical Security Features

Enhanced security with tamper-evident mechanisms

Tamper-evident seals or coatings
Role-based authentication
Enhanced key management

Level 3 - Tamper-Resistant

Active Tamper Detection

High security with tamper detection and response

Tamper detection circuits
Identity-based authentication
Secure key entry and output

Level 4 - Tamper-Responsive

Environmental Protection

Highest security with environmental attack protection

Environmental failure protection
Immediate key zeroization
Complete tamper response

Motorcycle Applications

Vehicle Security Modules

FIPS 140-2 compliance for motorcycle security systems

Secure key storage modules
Immobilizer cryptographic units
ECU security processors

Key Management

Cryptographic Key Lifecycle

Comprehensive key management requirements

Key generation and distribution
Key storage and protection
Key destruction and zeroization

Implementation Features

Hardware Security Modules

Hardware-based cryptographic modules and security implementations for FIPS 140-2 compliance.

Dedicated cryptographic processors
Secure key storage hardware
Tamper-resistant enclosures
Hardware random number generators
Physical security mechanisms
Environmental monitoring systems

Software Security

Software-based security implementations and cryptographic algorithm requirements.

Approved cryptographic algorithms
Secure software development practices
Code integrity verification
Secure boot and loading procedures
Software tamper detection
Cryptographic API security

Certification Process

FIPS 140-2 certification and validation procedures for cryptographic modules.

Cryptographic Module Validation Program (CMVP)
Independent laboratory testing
Security policy documentation
Operational environment validation
Continuous monitoring requirements
Compliance maintenance procedures