Google Cloud HSM

Google Cloud HSM is designed for managing and protecting sensitive encryption keys in the cloud by providing a cloud-hosted Hardware Security Module (HSM) service. This service is built on FIPS 140-2 Level 3 certified HSMs, ensuring high standards of security and compliance.

Technically, Cloud HSM integrates tightly with Google Cloud Key Management Service (Cloud KMS), allowing users to manage HSM-backed keys alongside other cryptographic resources. The service is available in every Google Cloud region, enabling geographic flexibility and compliance with regional data residency requirements. When using Cloud HSM, key creation and management are handled through the Cloud KMS API, which verifies caller identity, permissions, and quotas before forwarding requests to the HSM cluster. The HSMs are managed by Google, eliminating the need for users to handle clustering, scaling, or patching.

Operationally, Cloud HSM ensures strict isolation of tenant data and provides fine-grained access control through IAM roles. Key import processes are secured with attestation statements to validate that no unauthorized access to the key material occurred. Administrative operations and data access are logged in Cloud Audit Logs, enhancing transparency and auditability. Google also partners with the HSM manufacturer to keep the hardware and software updated, addressing potential security vulnerabilities in real-time.

Key technical details include the use of location-specific wrapping keys for key creation and the requirement for CMEK keys and the data they encrypt to be in compatible geographic locations. This geographic restriction ensures that all encryption and decryption operations are also geographically constrained, aligning with compliance and regulatory needs.