The TEMPEST standard is devoted to electromagnetic waves emitted from devices (both emitted and directed) and assesses the risk of interception. All electrical and electronic devices generate electromagnetic radiation. EMC radiation from data processing devices ...
WHAT IS THE TEMPEST STANDARD ?
• PROTECTION AGAINST INTERCEPTION OF SECRET CLASSIFIED INFORMATION
The TEMPEST standard is devoted to electromagnetic waves emitted from devices (both emitted and directed) and assesses the risk of interception.
All electrical and electronic devices generate electromagnetic radiation. EMC radiation from data processing devices, such as laptops or mobile phones, contains sensitive information that can be easily intercepted. A receiver can evaluate these signals without being detected without having direct access to the original device.
The figure below illustrates a mitigation measure method to classify individual parts of a security perimeter in Zones 1, 2 or 3. This classification requires a standard a standard shielding test for processing secret data in those parts.
LEVEL A
Tempest level A is the most stringent NATO standard and is therefore sometimes referred to as “FULL”.
Level A applies to environments and equipment where immediate interception may occur in the vicinity of the adjacent piece (approximately 1 metre away).
Therefore, this standard applies to aircraft operating in NATO Zone 0.
LEVEL B
Tempest level B is NATO’s next stricter standard, also known as “IMMEDIATE”.
This Tempest standard applies to devices that cannot be intercepted at a distance greater than 20 metres. This Tempest standard applies to device operating in NATO Zone 1.
This standard protects devices both at an open distance of 20 meters and at a comparable distance through walls and obstacles.
LEVEL C
Tempest level C is also called “TACTICAL”.
This Tempest standard applies to devices at an open distance of 100 metres or at a comparable distance through walls and obstacles.
This standard protects to environments and devices located in NATO Zone 2.
NCS SYSTEMS designs industrial IT solutions of the 19' rack type to meet the requirements of the TEMPEST standard. Our know-how also allows us to adapt laptops and tablets to this standard. Finally, in collaboration with a NATO-certified laboratory, we propose that you take charge of the certification procedures for the configurations delivered.
