Importance

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Abstract

The authentication device, for example a card, is provided with the capability of generating its own unique personalization data. Each device, prior to the personalization phase, is advantageously identical to any other device of a same batch. The device generates a random internal number using one or more different methods and in such a way that the internal number cannot be predicated and it is statistically improbable another device has an identical internal number. Segments of the random internal number are used to form the personalization data, for instance a serial number and key number. The random internal number can also be inserted in a mathematical algorithm, for example a one-way hashing function, to generate another number or other numbers to be used as the personalization data. Once generated, the personalization data are recorded in a memory. The device may be further provided with unique seed number, either as part of the manufacture process or at a later date through an ISO 7816 interface, if any. The seed number is later combined or otherwise used with the random internal number to generate the personalization data.

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First Claim