Pitney Bowes Technology On Display At

National Cryptologic Museum

STAMFORD — Pitney Bowes, a leading provider of integrated mail and document management solutions, has created a permanent display for the National Cryptologic Museum at Fort George G. Meade, Md., highlighting the history of cryptography in postal payment applications, one of the most widely deployed examples of information security in commercial applications.

The display showcases the unique benefits offered by cryptographic technology including the ability for businesses to securely access and manage funds from remote locations. In addition, the display showcases how today’s well-known meter indicia or Digital Postage Mark includes several data elements of secure information created through the use of sophisticated, modern cryptography.

“Pitney Bowes has invested more than $1 billion over the last ten years in its R&D efforts including the development of information security designed specifically for payment applications,” stated Leon Pintsov, Pitney Bowes Fellow and vice president, international standards and advanced technology. “As companies look for secure solutions to help them manage their mail and documents, our expertise in cryptography, combined with our competency in managing data and information, enables Pitney Bowes to develop solutions that ultimately make mail a more effective and efficient communications channel for businesses of all sizes.”

Included as part of the exhibit is an example of cryptographic solutions from 1979, the mechanical implementation of a one-time pad. Because this device allowed the meter operator to add postage to the meter over the phone, it is an example of the first commercial application of a secure remote transaction system. Also included are examples of digital postage marks with two-dimensional bar codes that ensure the integrity and authenticity of payment data. Since their introduction in 1920, postage meters have processes more than two trillion mail pieces.

“Today, the presence of cryptologic principles are found in even the most familiar objects, including auto alarms, cell phones, and automatic garage doors,” stated Jack Ingram, curator, National Cryptologic Museum. “While many people may recognize an indicia, many may not appreciate the importance cryptology has had in its development.”

Located at NSA Headquarters in Fort George G. Meade, the National Cryptologic Museum collection contains thousands of artifacts that collectively serve to sustain the history of the cryptologic profession. Ranging from rare books to computers that are barely obsolete, the collection neglects no aspect of cryptology. The National Cryptologic Museum is open to the public; school groups and civic organizations are welcome. More information about the museum can be found at www.nasa.gov/museum/index.cfm.

Pitney Bowes is s the world’s leading provider of integrated mail and document management systems, services, and solutions. The $4.6 billion company helps organizations of all sizes engineer the flow of communication to reduce costs and increase impact, and enhance customer relationships. Its 80-plus years of technological leadership has produced many major innovations in the mailing industry and more than 3,500 active patents with applications in a variety of markets, including printing, shipping, encryption, and financial services. With approximately 33,000 employees worldwide, including facilities in Newtown, Pitney Bowes serves more than two million businesses through direct and dealer operations. For more information about the company, visit www.pb.com.