Cryptographic Algorithm Status Transition Record System
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Solution Overview
Problem
Blockchain systems face challenges in managing and verifying changes in cryptographic algorithms over time, which can compromise the integrity and authenticity of data, leading to potential loss of access to encrypted information and strain on processing power and memory.
Innovation Solution
A cryptographic algorithm status transition (CAST) record system is implemented, where a CAST record is digitally signed and stored out-of-band on a secondary blockchain to monitor and document changes in cryptographic algorithms, ensuring the integrity and authenticity of blockchain data by providing a mechanism for future verification and efficient management of cryptographic changes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cryptographic algorithms are changed over time to improve security or efficiency, then cryptographic strength and processing speed are improved, but verification of data integrity and authenticity becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by creating CAST records that document cryptographic algorithm status transitions in advance. These records capture the algorithm being used at specific blockchain blocks before changes occur, enabling future verification without requiring complex real-time analysis of algorithm evolution. The records are generated and stored proactively as algorithms transition, making future verification straightforward.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces CAST records as an intermediary mechanism between the blockchain data and the verification process. These records serve as a mediator that simplifies verification by providing a clear audit trail of which cryptographic algorithms were active at specific blocks, eliminating the need for complex analysis of algorithm changes over time.
2Reliability
If cryptographic algorithm changes are monitored and documented for each blockchain block, then data integrity and authenticity are maintained, but processing power and memory requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies segmentation by dividing the monitoring and documentation process into discrete CAST records that are created only when algorithm transitions occur. Rather than continuously monitoring and processing every block, the system segments the documentation into event-driven records triggered by specific algorithm change events, reducing overall processing requirements while maintaining integrity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements periodic action by creating CAST records at specific intervals - namely, when cryptographic algorithm transitions occur. This event-driven periodic approach is more efficient than continuous monitoring, as records are generated only when necessary (at transition points) rather than for every single block, reducing processing power and memory usage while maintaining complete audit capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cryptographic algorithms are active in the blockchain environment, then adaptability and security are improved, but tracking and verifying algorithm usage becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies feedback by creating CAST records that provide a clear audit trail of cryptographic algorithm usage. Each record documents which algorithm was active at specific blockchain blocks, providing feedback information that simplifies tracking and verification. This feedback mechanism transforms the complexity of multiple active algorithms into a manageable record-keeping system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces CAST records as an intermediary layer between the multiple cryptographic algorithms and the verification process. These records mediate the complexity by providing a standardized documentation format that tracks algorithm usage across different blocks, making it easier to detect and measure which algorithms were active when, without requiring direct analysis of the algorithms themselves.
Data Source
AI summary
Various embodiments relate to a method performed by a processor of a computing system. An example method includes determining a first cryptographic algorithm utilized in a first block of a first blockchain. The first block of the first blockchain has a first unique block identifier. A second cryptographic algorithm utilized in a second block of the first blockchain is determined. The second block of the first blockchain having a second unique block identifier. A first cryptographic algorithm status transition (“CAST”) event is defined if the second cryptographic algorithm is different than the first cryptographic algorithm. A first CAST record is defined upon occurrence of the first CAST event. The first CAST record includes the second cryptographic algorithm and the second unique block identifier. The first CAST record is digitally signed and stored on a second blockchain. The second blockchain may be referenced out-of-band of the first blockchain.