Protecting data stored in a chip card interface device in the event of compromise

Abstract

A chip card interface device (CCID) is configured for protecting data stored at the CCID in the event of a compromise. The CCID has a housing and a compromise detection system including one or more detection devices configured for detecting a compromise of the housing. The compromise detection system is configured for generating a detection signal indicating the detected compromise. A data protection system is coupled with the compromise detection system and includes a memory device and a processing device coupled with the compromise detection system. The processing device is for receiving the detection signal and erasing data stored on the memory device based on the detection signal in some embodiments. In some embodiments, the processing device also activates a locking function for rendering itself inoperable based on the detection signal.