Here in Germany we can use FinTS(HBCI) doing online banking. This method is theoretically safer then the most commonly used method using PIN/TAN. PIN/TAN is vulnerable to phishing or attacks by trojans logging key strokes. That, and the fact that I wanted to test the FinTS(HBCI) service forced me to do switch.
The other day I ordered a card reader, namely the Kobil TriB@nk. There are other vendors, for example Reiner SCT, who produce card readers. I searched the web for Linux support of Kobil card readers and found some forum sites discussing the object. Anyhow, after downloading the driers of the card reader from the Kobil website and using “apt-get” (I’m currently using kubuntu) to install the missing libraries (pcsc-lite and ccid) I got stuck with the card reader not working at all.
I used hours in searching the web fore more information. And as time went by I started being frustrated, as the Linux support from Kobil seems to be half-assed. The Reiner SCT card readers seem to have a very good Linux support… *sigh*.
At one point (I wanted to go to bed about one hour before) I made a final attempt. I purged the “libccid” from my system, downloaded the latest source from the developers website, compiled and installed it. Now starting the pcscd and plugging in the card reader finally gave me some usable output. *cheer*
I went to bed with a relief.
To be continued…