HSM Definition.

Hardware Security Module: a tamper-resistant hardware device that generates, stores, and uses cryptographic keys without ever exposing them. It handles PIN verification, EMV cryptograms, tokenization, and signing. Certified to FIPS 140-2/3 and PCI PTS HSM, HSMs are essential at issuers, acquirers, and processors. The security of card processing ultimately rests on these devices and their key ceremonies.

See also

→ PIN→ Tokenization→ PCI DSS

Where this term appears

GuideCard issuing: building and running a programGuideEMV and card securityGuidePayment cryptographyCoursePCI DSS and payment data security

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