Highlights
-
Protecting customers and the business from fraud
- Up to 80% of product and distribution costs saved by eliminating paper-based processing
- Reducing the risk of data breaches
“The move from paper-based to electronic invoicing has proved a great success.”
Download in PDF »
European and Slovenian national directives and legislation now allow companies to issue invoices solely in an electronic format, as long as they follow a strict set of rules. Si.mobil–Vodafone was quick to realize the huge savings that could be achieved by eliminating paper-based invoicing and, with the help of technology
from Thales, it is now one of the largest electronic invoicing systems in Slovenia.
Si.mobil-Vodafone is the first private mobile telephony operator in Slovenia and with its variety of new services, products and technologies is competing directly with the large state owned telco. With more than 500,000 customers, billing is a major cost to the business. Si.mobil-Vodafone therefore took the decision to introduce electronic invoicing. As a result, it is now possible for all of Si.mobil-Vodafone’s customers to choose whether they receive invoices in paper or electronic format, or both.
The electronic invoices must be created in accordance with strict EU directives and legislative requirements that require proof of authenticity and integrity. To do this Si.mobil-Vodafone worked with ecommerce solutions provider SETCCE who is experienced in automating electronic business processes in accordance with legal requirements. SETCCE also has a strong technology partnership with Thales who provided the core security technology.
The solution was effectively designed as an ‘in-house electronic print shop’ that captures the data normally sent to the printing house and post office for paper-based invoicing. The data is then processed and an electronic invoice is produced along with any necessary supplementary information such as detailed specifications on services provided. All electronic documents are created in accordance with the VAT Act and Accounting Standards. Next, each invoice is digitally signed to seal its integrity and authenticity and delivered to customers via e-mail or through alternative electronic channels.
SETCCE’s eBiller® system processes the input data and generates invoices while Thales nShield hardware security modules (HSMs), part of the nCipher product line, are used to digitally sign the electronic invoices. With high volumes, time is a crucial factor and the nShield HSM plays an essential role by accelerating the cryptographic processing. It is capable of more than 5,000 digital signatures per second (1024 RSA key signing).
Another very important requirement was the secure storage of cryptographic keys needed to apply digital signatures to electronic invoices. The nShield HSM not only securely stores the keys for digital signing but it also secures and manages access to the information. The Thales HSM provides a tamper-resistant hardware environment certified to FIPS 140-2 level 3, one of the most stringent security benchmarks in the industry; and the private keys can only be accessed and used for signing if the correct number of authorized personnel are present. This means that the chances of compromising the keys and the process are almost eliminated.
E-invoicing has further strengthened Si-mobil’s position as a progressive mobile services operator and the financial benefits are increasing daily as more and more customers opt to receive invoices solely in electronic format. Si.mobil-Vodafone believes that up to 80 percent of production and distribution costs have been saved by eliminating paper-based processes.
With the massive growth in fixed and mobile telecommunications, billing is a major challenge for all network operators. The move to electronic invoicing not only cuts costs and streamlines the invoicing process but also reduces the carbon footprint for telcos. However, it is also essential that the process is completely secure and Thales technology has a major roll to play in delivering protection and a secure audit trail.