Iridium, ZOCA partner to offer enhanced container security

Iridium, ZOCA partner to offer enhanced container security    Dutch-owned ZOCA Container Security BV has partnered with Bethesda, Md.-based Iridium Satellite to produce a container locking device that uses satellite data to prevent unauthorized opening of shipping containers.
   The ZOCA system consists of a strong mechanical tamper-proof lock, which can only be operated with a ZOCA handheld mobile device. In order to lock or unlock the container, the handheld instrument must be plugged into a connection on the outside of the container. The control unit sends a security code for the lock to a central computer at ZOCA's global processing center through Iridium's constellation of 66 low-earth orbiting satellites. The central computer confirms the correct security code. It then checks the GPS location of the container to ensure it is in the proper location and transmits a signal that permits the container to be unlocked.