WISeKey’s Subsidiary, SEALSQ to Launch a Dedicated Service Supporting OEMs Achieve Compliance with the "U.S. Cyber Trust Mark" Initiative

SEALSQ at the forefront of a new era in consumer cybersecurity: IoT devices embedding a SEALSQ VaultIC secure microcontroller would be more likely to achieve compliance with the U.S. government program guidelines.

Geneva, Switzerland – October 25, 2023: WISeKey International Holding Ltd. (“WISeKey”) (SIX: WIHN, NASDAQ: WKEY), leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and Internet of Things (IoT) solutions operating as a holding company, today announced that its subsidiary SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES) (“SEALSQ”) will be launching a dedicated service to support OEMs achieve compliance with the "U.S. Cyber Trust Mark" initiative recently announced by the Biden-Harris administration.

SEALSQ service will bring tools and support to any IoT device manufacturer willing to achieve compliance to the “US Cyber Trust Mark” program by leveraging its expertise in Security by Design. Specifically, IoT devices embedding a VaultIC secure microcontroller hosting a unique trusted identity provided and managed by INeS PKI service would be more likely to achieve compliance with the U.S. government program guidelines.

The "U.S. Cyber Trust Mark" initiative, which is expected to launch in 2024, is spearheaded by the FCC, and will seek public feedback. It aligns with cybersecurity criteria from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and especially NIST IR8425 guidelines emphasizing secure default passwords, data protection, regular software updates, and incident detection.

Leading companies in electronics and consumer products, including Amazon, Best Buy, Google, LG Electronics U.S.A., Logitech, and Samsung Electronics, are already committing to enhanced cybersecurity measures for their products.

As part of the program, the Federal Communication Commission (“FCC”) would allow manufacturers of IoT devices or products that meet certain cybersecurity standards to use an FCC-endorsed label known as the "U.S. Cyber Trust Mark.” The FCC will work with various government agencies to promote consumer awareness and encourage retailers to prioritize these certified products. Products with the FCC-endorsed label will feature a QR code linking to detailed security information, promoting transparency and informed purchasing decisions.

To ensure the program's integrity, regulatory bodies and the Department of Justice will provide oversight and enforcement. The initiative will also focus on consumer-grade routers due to their vulnerability to serious cyber-attacks, with NIST setting specific security standards expected by the end of 2023.

Products fortified by these advanced security measures could soon flaunt the “U.S. Cyber Trust Mark”, a visible pledge of superior cybersecurity, directly influencing consumer preference in an increasingly security-conscious market. This distinctive shield logo, symbolizing resilience against cyber threats, is expected to steer consumers toward smarter purchasing decisions, recognizing and prioritizing their digital safety.

Moreover, this proactive embrace of higher security protocols anticipates a future of tighter regulations, with SEALSQ paving the way for hassle-free compliance, preventing cybersecurity incidents, and the potentially disastrous consequences therein. Their commitment transcends mere regulatory adherence, signaling a robust defense against financial losses, safeguarding brand reputation, and, paramountly, fortifying consumer trust.

The program also heralds new collaborative horizons. SEALSQ’s advanced security measures could morph into a beacon for partnership opportunities with major manufacturers and retailers committed to bolstering cybersecurity. This alignment creates a robust echo system, advocating for enhanced consumer data protection and privacy.

SEALSQ also recently announced that it is providing IoT device makers with Matter Device Attestation Certificates optionally hosted in a VaultIC secure microcontroller. “SEALSQ is an expert at designing, governing and managing large PKI ecosystems to ensure DAC supporting millions of connected devices and will continue to work closely with the Connectivty Standard Alliance (CSA) Product Security Working Group to shape the security in the IoT industry,” said, Carlos Moreira, CEO of WISeKey.

The growing adoption of cybersecurity standards on the IoT sector reinforces the value proposition of SEASQ as it will greatly improve interoperability between devices and security-by-design in the smart home industry, creating a more efficient and safer experience for consumers.

About SEALSQ

SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES) is a wholly owned subsidiary of the WISeKey Group that focuses on developing and selling Semiconductors, PKI and Post-Quantum technology hardware and software products. Our Post-Quantum solutions include Post-Quantum microchips and devices that can be used in a variety of applications, from Multi-Factor Authentication devices, Home Automation, and IT Network Infrastructure, to Automotive, Industrial Automation and Control Systems.

Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) refers to cryptographic methods that are secure against an attack by a quantum computer. As quantum computers become more powerful, they may be able to break many of the cryptographic methods that are currently used to protect sensitive information, such as RSA and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC). PQC aims to develop new cryptographic methods that are secure against quantum attacks. For more information, visit www.sealsq.com

About WISeKey

WISeKey International Holding Ltd (“WISeKey”, SIX: WIHN; Nasdaq: WKEY) is a global leader in cybersecurity, digital identity, and IoT solutions platform. It operates as a Swiss-based holding company through several operational subsidiaries, each dedicated to specific aspects of its technology portfolio. The subsidiaries include (i) SEALSQ Corp (Nasdaq: LAES), which focuses on semiconductors, PKI, and post-quantum technology products, (ii) WISeKey SA which specializes in RoT and PKI solutions for secure authentication and identification in IoT, Blockchain, and AI, (iii) WISeSat AG which focuses on space technology for secure satellite communication, specifically for IoT applications, and (iv) WISe.ART Corp which focuses on trusted blockchain NFTs and operates the WISe.ART marketplace for secure NFT transactions.

Each subsidiary contributes to WISeKey’s mission of securing the internet while focusing on their respective areas of research and expertise. Their technologies seamlessly integrate into the comprehensive WISeKey platform. WISeKey secures digital identity ecosystems for individuals and objects using Blockchain, AI, and IoT technologies. With over 1.6 billion microchips deployed across various IoT sectors, WISeKey plays a vital role in securing the Internet of Everything. The company’s semiconductors generate valuable Big Data that, when analyzed with AI, enable predictive equipment failure prevention. Trusted by the OISTE/WISeKey cryptographic Root of Trust, WISeKey provides secure authentication and identification for IoT, Blockchain, and AI applications. The WISeKey Root of Trust ensures the integrity of online transactions between objects and people. For more information on WISeKey’s strategic direction and its subsidiary companies, please visit www.wisekey.com.

Press and investor contacts:

Disclaimer:

This communication expressly or implicitly contains certain forward-looking statements concerning WISeKey International Holding Ltd and its business. Such statements involve certain known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which could cause the actual results, financial condition, performance or achievements of WISeKey International Holding Ltd to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. WISeKey International Holding Ltd is providing this communication as of this date and does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements contained herein as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, any securities, and it does not constitute an offering prospectus within the meaning of article 652a or article 1156 of the Swiss Code of Obligations or a listing prospectus within the meaning of the listing rules of the SIX Swiss Exchange. Investors must rely on their own evaluation of WISeKey and its securities, including the merits and risks involved. Nothing contained herein is, or shall be relied on as, a promise or representation as to the future performance of WISeKey.