Samsung announces GAIA, a Smart TV security solution

Samsung announced GAIA, a comprehensive three-layer security solution for its entire 2016 line up of Tizen-based Smart TVs. The service will give consumers protection across all areas of the Smart TV ecosystem, including services, software and hardware security.

GAIA protects consumer’s personal data in three ways. Firstly it has Secure Zone, a virtual barrier that creates a secure space and protects the core service operations. A Secure Keypad/Number Pad – the virtual data input mechanism seen on a TV, is used to safeguard consumers’ personal information such as credit card and password.

Secondly, GAIA encrypts important data transmitted between the TV and IoT service servers. GAIA’s built-in anti-malware system detects and blocks any unauthorized programs that may be used for hacking from running or making changes to key part of the Smart TV’s OS.

Thirdly, Security level is also strengthened in terms of hardware. By dividing the Tizen OS into two parts including the main and the security space, data for each space is secured separately. Also, public key used for verifying personal information is included in the hardware chip.

Samsung views 2016 as the year the TV will become the center for Internet of Things (IoT) extensions in the home. As well as being equipped with GAIA, all 2016 Samsung SUHD TVs will be IoT hub technology enabled, allowing the TV itself to act as the controller for the entire home IoT service.