Transatel, Docomo & Zscaler launch IoT security service

Transatel, NTT Docomo Business and Zscaler have launched a cellular security service for IoT deployments, the first carrier-led offering of its kind in Japan.

The product, Cellular SASE for IoT, is designed to secure connected devices through SIM-based connectivity and cloud-delivered zero trust controls. It removes the need for conventional virtual private networks and software agents installed on endpoints.

The launch targets a growing security challenge in the internet of things market as businesses connect more devices across multiple countries and networks. Many of those devices have limited processing power and storage, making it difficult to run security tools directly on the hardware.

As a result, a wide range of equipment remains exposed to cyber risk, particularly in large international deployments where businesses must manage different device types and local communications environments. Traditional methods based on per-device software or VPN connections can also be hard to scale across large fleets.

The service combines Transatel's global mobile connectivity network, Zscaler's zero trust security platform and NTT Docomo Business's integration and managed support services. It is intended to secure connections between IoT devices, cloud systems and corporate IT environments without relying on software installed on the devices themselves.

Transatel provides connectivity across more than 200 countries and territories through its global mobile virtual network operator model. Its multi-carrier SIM technology is also designed to give customers network redundancy without requiring separate carrier contracts in each market.

A central management portal allows customers to manage SIMs and mobile lines across international deployments from one place, reducing the operational burden of running large numbers of connected devices in different regions.

Zscaler's security platform is embedded in the mobile network layer. It provides firewall protection, URL filtering and intrusion prevention for internet access, while private traffic is routed through the cloud to reduce exposure and support secure two-way communications between devices, users and servers.

NTT Docomo Business is responsible for integration, implementation support and managed services for the launch. Customers can also use its X Managed service for centralised operational support across network and security functions.

The release comes as the global IoT market continues to expand rapidly. Figures cited from GSMA Intelligence project that the number of connected IoT devices will reach 40.8 billion by 2030.

Security risks remain a major concern for operators and enterprise users. The companies cited Palo Alto Networks research showing that 48.2% of network connections involving IoT and IT devices originate from high-risk IoT equipment.

Market focus

The service is aimed at enterprises managing cross-border device fleets and mobile endpoints, particularly in manufacturing, logistics, energy and smart infrastructure. These sectors often depend on widely distributed equipment that must remain connected while meeting security requirements across multiple jurisdictions.

Transatel has built its business around mobile connectivity for machine-to-machine and IoT applications, as well as mobile virtual network enablement. Its connected device base includes vehicles, industrial machines and consumer electronics using public and private cellular networks.

Customers named by Transatel include Airbus, BMW Group, Worldline, Air France and Toyota. In addition to its IoT operations, it also runs the Ubigi mobile data service for travellers and remote workers.

The launch reflects a broader shift in telecoms and cyber security towards network-based protection for connected devices that cannot easily support on-device tools. By placing controls at the network and cloud layers, providers are trying to address the practical limits of securing low-power sensors, machines and embedded systems.

For large multinational users, one immediate advantage is the potential to use a single commercial and management framework for international deployments. That could appeal to businesses struggling with fragmented contracts, varying compliance requirements and the complexity of maintaining secure connectivity across multiple territories.

A senior executive at Zscaler said the launch responds to those operational and security pressures.

"Through our expanded partnership with NTT Docomo Business and Transatel, Zscaler is bringing a cellular security solution to the global IoT market. By combining trusted mobile connectivity with zero trust security, this solution will enable customers to scale deployments under consistent policies, reduce their attack surface and simplify day-to-day operations," said Nathan Howe, Vice President, Emerging Technologies, Zscaler.