Capability Manager Stub Data Privacy Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users of computing devices face challenges in limiting the capabilities of installed applications, as they must grant all requested permissions for an application to function, which can compromise data privacy and restrict the use of desired applications.
Innovation Solution
A capabilities manager is implemented to handle application requests by providing stub data instead of actual data for selected capabilities, allowing users to limit permissions without affecting the application's functionality, with the capabilities manager storing and managing stub data and determining when to provide actual data.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If all requested capabilities are granted to an application, then the application can function properly, but user privacy and data security are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a capability manager as an intermediary component between applications and user data. This manager intercepts capability requests, validates them against security policies, and provides controlled access to data through mechanisms like data masks and proxy services. The intermediary ensures applications receive necessary capabilities to function while preventing direct access to sensitive user information.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates simplified copies or representations of actual data and capabilities. Instead of providing direct access to real user data, the system generates mock data, placeholder information, or sanitized versions that maintain application functionality without exposing sensitive information. This copying approach allows applications to operate with simulated data that protects user privacy.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If capability access is restricted to protect privacy, then data security is improved, but application functionality may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent dynamically changes parameters of data access by adjusting data masks, modifying capability permissions, and transforming data formats based on security requirements. The system can alter the level of data exposure, the form in which data is presented, and the conditions under which access is granted, allowing privacy protection while maintaining application operation through parameter adjustment rather than complete restriction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements dynamic capability management where access permissions are not static but can change based on application behavior, user choices, and security context. The system continuously evaluates capability requests and adjusts access levels in real-time, allowing applications to receive appropriate data access rights when needed while maintaining privacy protection, creating a flexible and adaptive security model.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If users are given control over capability permissions, then data security is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service mechanisms where the system automatically manages capability permissions without requiring constant user intervention. The capability manager autonomously evaluates requests, applies security policies, and makes access decisions based on pre-configured rules and user preferences. This automation reduces the perceived complexity for users while maintaining robust security control through intelligent system management.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and techniques are provided for protecting user privacy from intrusive mobile applications. A capability request may be received from an application. The capability request may be a request for access to data associated with a capability. A selection may be received to provide the application with stub data upon receiving a request from the application to access the data associated with the capability. The stub data may be generated to be provided to the application when the application requests the data associated with the capability. The stub data may be stored. A request may be received from the application for the data associated with the capability. It may be determined that the application is to be provided with the stub data when the application requests access to the data associated with the capability. The stub data may be retrieved. The stub data may be provided to the application.