This 'Zero Trust' Phone Might Be The Most Secure Smartphone Ever
A smartphone made by software company Sikur offers cutting-edge security measures without breaking the bank. However, although its features make it among the most secure handsets on the market, it does come with a catch. With hacking exploits becoming universal nowadays, it's getting harder for users to trust their smartphones regularly.
This is where Sikur comes into the picture, a cybersecurity firm that started in 2014, specializing in developing "military-level protection" solutions. Aside from aiding organizations with battling cyber threats, the company's also been producing smartphones since 2015, coming up with hack-proof models such as the Granite Phone and SikurPhone. These handsets were proven to be a nightmare for hackers to break into, but now, Sikur is working on a model that might make physical key log-ins seem unnecessary. Related: Updating To iOS 15 Is Now Mandatory As Apple Axes iOS 14 Security Updates
According to Engadget, the company's latest smartphone, dubbed the Sikur One, runs on Android 11, albeit with tighter security measures. It utilizes an authentication token system that forgoes the need for passwords, called Sikur ID, considered a zero-trust system. It comes with a 6.5-inch screen, 4GBs of RAM, 128GBs of expandable storage, an octa-core processor, a triple-lens primary shooter, a 3MP secondary camera, and a hefty 4,000mAh battery. The handset also supports two SIM cards, but connectivity is limited to 4G. Sikur One reportedly costs about $274, which includes a one-year license.
Even Google is worried, given how some malicious hacks are getting. Having a smartphone that can protect itself from such attacks is becoming more crucial than ever. To tighten security, Sikur One utilizes Sikur Messenger, a communication platform that keeps data in a private cloud. It also incorporates a Mobile Device Management (MDM) system to determine which apps are safe to download. The company claims the smartphone remains protected even when connected to public networks, like airport terminals.
Aside from having a built-in Virtual Private Network, Sikur One also automatically removes bloatware, disables location services by default, and comes with security measures that prevent its operating system from being manipulated. If the device gets stolen or compromised, its owner can also wipe its data remotely and safely retrieve them via Sikur's cloud. Unfortunately, to keep its security airtight from most common exploits, the phone won't have any means to transfer files via USB. Furthermore, users will have to pay $145 annually once their license expires to continue using its Sikur Messaging and MDM features. Sikur One might be ideal for users who manage various highly sensitive accounts, especially since two-factor authentication might not be enough. Of course, the smartphone is mainly aimed towards organizations, but individuals who still insist on getting such a secure smartphone will have to gauge whether or not it's worth the additional hassles it comes with.