Download a copy of the Certificate Holders Guide in PDF format. 

What is the relationship between Trustis Limited and ChamberCard?
Trustis Limited is the certification authority for ChamberCard.

What is PKI (Public Key Infrastructure)?
Keys are mathematical algorithms and each user or system is assigned a pair of keys. One key is public and does not need to be secure, the other is private and cannot be viewed or disclosed. Public keys are used for encryption, authentication or digital signatures. The IETF’s X.509 key, which is the key we use for TrustAssured is widely accepted as the standard in digital certificates and with certification authorities.

What is X.509 v3?
X.509 is a popular standard for public key certificates. Each X.509
certificate contains a version number, serial number, identity information,
algorithm-related information and the signature of the issuing authority.
If you would like to obtain more information, Microsoft's Internet Explorer
will display some of the fields if you choose the 'Properties' option while
looking at a secure document. 

What is a Smart Card?
Similar to today’s plastic payment card, the smart card has a microprocessor or memory chip embedded in it. When coupled with a reader and an application, smart cards make personal and business information available to appropriate users. The card provides data portability, security and convenience, they can also provide users with the ability to purchase goods or exchange value.

What is a certificate and what does it look like?
A certificate is the digital equivalent of a passport. It is file which has been uniquely issued by a trusted authority. Each certificate is stored on a smartcard - similar to a credit card but with an embedded electronic silicon chip which can be read by a smartcard reader. The smartcard provides an assurance that the user's private identity key is unique, since it cannot be extracted from the card. The card requires knowledge of a Personal Identity Number (PIN) to unlock.

Do I need a specific PC or operating system for my smartcard?
The table below summarises the PC operating systems that are compatible with the smartcard reader, and how much RAM each requires. In addition, the PC must be at least a Pentium II 400Mhz with 20MB of available hard disk space.

Can I use my own smartcard reader?
Support will only be provided for ChamberCard smartcards used in conjunction with the reader and software issued by ChamberCard. 

What if I change registration details?
Log a call with the service desk on +44(0)870 241 3569. You will be sent confirmation of the change, which you must arrange to be authorised and sent to your certificate manager. Changes affecting your email address, name or company name will result in a new digital certificate being issued and your existing certificate being cancelled.

What if I forget my PIN number or lose my smartcard?
In the event that you forget your PIN or believe that your smartcard is compromised or lost, you should download a Revocation form. The form should be completed and faxed or posted to the Certificate Manager at the Chamber of Commerce where you completed your original registration. Your certificate will then be cancelled and a new smartcard issued.

Does my certificate ever expire?
Yes. Although you have purchased a three-year entitlement, your certificate has a 1-year lifetime. Prior to its expiry you will be sent a new smartcard and certificate. This will be repeated prior to the end of the second year. Prior to the end of the third year we will write to you asking whether you wish to extend entitlement for a further three years.

Does my certificate ever expire?
Yes. New certificates have a lifetime of 3 Years (1095 days) and each user will have one certificate for the contracted 3-year period.


What are my obligations as a certificate holder?
Check User Agreement/CP.