AppGuard Application Security for Mobile Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing systems for managing applications on mobile devices face challenges in ensuring security and controlling access to sensitive information, especially when constant connectivity is not available, as locally stored applications risk exposure and unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A system that uses a server to manage applications on mobile devices by supplementing them with AppGuard code, which validates permissions, monitors network connections, and enables secure information exchange without requiring constant connectivity, allowing for remote management and control of application functionality.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If applications are stored locally on the appliance, then the user can work with the application without requiring constant connectivity, but the stored local information becomes insecure and vulnerable to unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the application into two parts: the core application functionality stored locally on the appliance for offline access, and sensitive data stored remotely on the server. The AppGuard component acts as a security layer that controls access to the locally stored application, ensuring that even though the application is locally available, the sensitive data it requires remains protected and accessible only through secure server connections.
2Adaptability or versatility
If applications are downloaded and stored on the appliance, then remote working is enabled, but corporate intellectual property and sensitive information may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces AppGuard as an intermediary security layer between the application and the data. AppGuard validates permissions, controls access to sensitive information, and monitors application behavior. It acts as a mediator that allows the application to function remotely while maintaining security by preventing unauthorized access to corporate intellectual property and sensitive information stored on the server.
3Reliability
If a constant connection is maintained between the appliance and server, then application security is improved, but network limitations and signal quality issues affect usability in mobile environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary security validation through AppGuard, which checks permissions and validates application access before the application executes locally. This preliminary security check ensures that even when the appliance is offline or disconnected from the server, the application cannot access sensitive information without proper authorization. The security validation is performed in advance, allowing the application to function securely without requiring constant connectivity.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for managing applications on an appliance are provided. A server is in communication with appliances. The server is also coupled to databases which include appliance information, as well as application data. A user may authenticate using the appliance. A set of permissions may be associated with the user. The server then supervises information exchanged between the appliance and the server, as well as application functionality upon the appliance, by supplementing the applications downloaded to the appliance with supplemental code, referred to hereafter as an AppGuard. The AppGuard is tailored, using information related to the appliance, to the appliance type in order to ensure proper functionality. The AppGuard is executed upon installation, and collects device information for validation. After validation, the application may be run. Additionally, management of the applications may include augmenting, deleting, disabling or authorizing the application.