IDEMIA leads formation of HyGARDE consortium to secure connected equipment

With the rapid growth of IoT device deployments and the rising frequency and complexity of cyber threats, the demand for robust cybersecurity solutions has reached a critical point. In response to this pressing need, the HyGARDE consortium has been formed to develop an advanced cybersecurity solution aimed at safeguarding connected equipment. This initiative will protect both the devices and the sensitive data they transmit, providing essential security across the entire ecosystem of interconnected technologies.

The HyGARDE consortium brings together key leaders in the cybersecurity industry, including IDEMIA Secure Transactions, the project coordinator and a prominent provider of cryptography and security solutions for payment systems and IoT; BZH, an expert in cybersecurity and open-source embedded software; and SOLENT, a leading provider of critical device development and monitoring. The consortium aims to develop a comprehensive, off-the-shelf platform that will ensure the security and lifecycle management of critical connected equipment, from development to deployment and ongoing maintenance. A particular emphasis will be placed on long-term certification and compliance management to ensure the continued security of these devices.

Offering tools to support certification, monitor and maintain cybersecurity over-the-air, and support the lifecycle of equipment on the field, HyGARDE takes advantage of an onboard SIM or eSIM to protect the operating system and business applications. It offers businesses and governments a long-term, cost-effective solution that meets the stringent cybersecurity requirements mandated by NIS 2, the Cyber Resilience Act and the NIST Cybersecurity for IoT program, each coming into effect starting 2025.

As a first use case, the HyGARDE solution will be used by SOLUTIONS HYDROGENE, a company specialized in the design of renewable hydrogen storage systems for industry, local authorities and private customers, to secure its new equipment. This equipment can be installed in residential houses, to complement solar panels or windmill energy, and is remotely managed.

Funded by France 2030, the French government’s investment plan, the consortium has made significant progress since its launch in September 2023. The first prototype will be made available by the end of 2024, with the full platform – including a fully functional hydrogen storage equipment – set for release in Fall 2025. An AI-powered behaviour monitoring systems will be tested on live systems in 2026.

In the future, the solution may also be adapted to any critical systems connected to public or private networks, benefitting sectors such as automotive, transportation, industrial control systems, and healthcare devices.

“As the digital world continues to grow, so do the risks associated with it. At IDEMIA Secure Transactions, we understand the need for robust, cost-effective cybersecurity solutions. The HyGARDE project highlights our dedication to securing critical infrastructures and promoting sustainability,” said Marc BERTIN, Chief Technology Officer at IDEMIA Secure Transactions.