Stockholm, Sweden, Sept. 10, 2003 (PRIMEZONE) -- Sweden Post today announced its decision to discontinue the Certificate Authority (CA) operation as part of its strategy to focus on core business operations.
However, the public may continue to purchase the SIS-approved electronic identification card from Sweden Post via its website www.posten.se/esakerhetsbutiken or Swedish Cashier Service branches, which provide essential financial transaction services. The intention is for TeliaSonera(Nasdaq:TLSN), the Nordic and Baltic telecommunications leader, to deliver the certificates containing the electronic identity.Like TeliaSonera, Sweden Post has long been a key actor in the provision of services and issuance of certificates specific to electronic security. Both companies have also been driving forces behind standardization efforts, in which Sweden as a nation is at the cutting edge. TeliaSonera's move to take over Sweden Post's CA operation could herald another important step toward the creation of standardized e-security solutions -- a commodity the market is demanding.
"Our paramount concern was to identify a partner that would ensure a smooth transition for Sweden Post's valued customers. Sweden Post and TeliaSonera have highly similar technological platforms, and we share identical sets of administration guidelines and security requirements. Our customers can rest easy," said Gaby Roseen, head of eServices, eCommerce & Logistics.
Sweden Post's array of EID services includes the electronic ID card. This SIS-approved ID card is furnished with the certificate that provides the electronic identity, digital signature and secure eMail. Sweden Post sells the ID card to the public via its website (www.posten.se/esakerhetsbutiken) and Swedish Cashier Service branches. Sweden Post will continue to deliver SIS-approved electronic IDs to the public. When Sweden Post ceases to issue certificates, the intention is for TeliaSonera to deliver the certificates.
Sweden Post will honor all existing customer obligations. Customers may transfer contracts to TeliaSonera at their discretion.
Sweden Post connects people and organizations around the world by delivering mail promptly, reliably and cost-effectively. We drive value creation by combining conventional postal services with convenient electronic solutions, and integrating these services into customers' businesses. Simply put, we are experts at everything between "From and To." With over 3,000 retail service outlets, we provide daily service to 4.3 million homes and 800,000 businesses in Sweden. Every day we handle close to 20 million pieces of mail. With sales of over SEK23 billion and roughly 40,000 employees, the group is one of the largest in Sweden. The group's parent, Posten AB (publ), is wholly owned by the Swedish state. For more information, please visit our Web site at www.posten.se