Cryptographic Implementations

The SIM3 hardware wallet, powered by the ST33 chip, employs a range of advanced cryptographic algorithms, each suited for specific blockchain protocols. This tailored approach ensures optimal security and performance for various digital currencies.

ST33 ARM Core

ECC for Bitcoin and Ethereum

• Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC): The ECC co-processor within the ST33 chip is pivotal in generating and securely managing wallet keys, which are the cornerstone of user interaction with blockchain networks. ECC is a preferred cryptographic method for its balance of security and computational efficiency.

• Bitcoin: Bitcoin utilizes the secp256k1 elliptic curve for its cryptographic operations. This particular curve was chosen for several reasons, including its efficiency in computation and its large prime order, which enhances security. When a user generates a Bitcoin wallet, the ECC co-processor creates a private key, which is a randomly selected number from the finite field defined by secp256k1. The corresponding public key is then computed as a point on the elliptic curve by multiplying the private key with the curve's base point, G. The public key can then be hashed and encoded to produce a Bitcoin address.

• Ethereum: Ethereum also leverages elliptic curve cryptography for wallet key generation, employing the same secp256k1 curve as Bitcoin. Ethereum's use of this curve allows for the creation of a unique public-private key pair that forms the basis of an Ethereum address. The process mirrors Bitcoin's key generation, ensuring that the integrity and security principles provided by the secp256k1 curve are maintained.

Other Layer 1 (L1) Chains

• L1 chains such as Litecoin, Ripple, Dash, and others, may use secp256k1 or different ECC curves like secp256r1 or ed25519. For instance, ed25519 is known for its speed and resistance to certain types of cryptographic attacks, making it a popular choice for newer blockchains seeking to optimize performance and security.

• Some L1 chains have adopted cryptographic protocols that include additional features, such as zero-knowledge proofs for enhanced privacy, or different hashing algorithms that may be better suited to their specific network requirements.

• The ST33 chip's ECC co-processor is designed to be adaptable, with the capability to support multiple curves and cryptographic protocols. This ensures that SIM3 hardware wallets can cater to the diverse and evolving landscape of L1 blockchains, facilitating secure and efficient operations across various cryptocurrency platforms.

RSA for Broad Cryptographic Applications

• RSA Algorithm: While not directly tied to a specific blockchain, the RSA capabilities of the ST33 are crucial for secure communications and data encryption across various blockchain networks. RSA's widespread acceptance and robustness make it an essential part of the cryptographic toolkit for blockchain applications.

Symmetric Key Algorithms for Encrypted Data Storage

• DES, 3DES, and AES: These symmetric key algorithms are employed for encrypting data stored on the SIM3 card, ensuring the privacy and security of user information. While these algorithms are not used directly in transaction signing for blockchains, they play a vital role in securing the user's data at rest.

Security and Efficiency

• The use of these specific cryptographic algorithms, matched to the requirements of each blockchain, ensures that the SIM3 hardware wallet provides the highest levels of security and operational efficiency. This approach allows users to confidently manage their digital assets across a range of blockchain networks.