Cryptographic Access Control for Ransomware Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for preventing cryptographic ransomware attacks are ineffective, as they rely on resource-intensive monitoring, key-logging, and backup solutions that are costly, inefficient, and vulnerable to evolving ransomware behaviors, with existing solutions failing to reliably block all ransomware attacks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an access control mechanism that monitors and blocks unauthorized access to cryptographic resources, such as cryptographically secure random number generators, by enforcing predetermined requirements through a calling interface, thereby preventing ransomware from generating encryption keys.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If monitoring activities on the computing system are performed to detect suspicious behaviors, then ransomware detection capability is improved, but computational resources are excessively consumed and system performance deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and monitors only the specific cryptographic resource access calls that are critical for ransomware operation, rather than monitoring all system activities. By focusing exclusively on calls to random number generators and cryptographic functions, the solution achieves effective ransomware detection while minimizing computational overhead.
Solution Approach 2:
The monitoring mechanism applies different levels of scrutiny to different parts of the system. Critical cryptographic resources are monitored with high precision, while other system activities continue with minimal interference. This localized monitoring approach optimizes the balance between detection capability and system performance.
2Reliability
If key-logging is implemented to capture encryption keys for later decryption, then file recovery capability is improved, but system security is compromised and time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary action by blocking ransomware access to cryptographic resources before the encryption process can complete. By preventing the generation and use of encryption keys in the first place, the system eliminates the need for key-logging and associated security risks, while still enabling file recovery through alternative means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the harmful aspect of cryptographic key generation into a beneficial detection opportunity. By monitoring and blocking access to random number generators used for key generation, the system transforms the previously hidden key creation process into a visible, controllable event that enables prevention without compromising security.
3Reliability
If strong encryption with robust algorithms and long keys is used, then encryption security is improved, but vulnerability to ransomware attacks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary monitoring layer between the ransomware and the cryptographic resources. This intermediary blocks malicious access to random number generators and cryptographic functions, preventing the ransomware from obtaining strong encryption keys, while leaving legitimate cryptographic operations unaffected.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent segments the cryptographic resource access control into distinct monitored calls. By identifying and blocking specific API calls related to random number generation and cryptographic functions, the system prevents ransomware exploitation while maintaining security for legitimate applications that require cryptographic operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for preventing ransomware attacks on a computing system. By controlling the access to a calling interface through which cryptographic functions, such as the random number generator, can be accessed to generate strong encryption keys the method allows to efficiently terminate cryptographic ransomware attacks on the system before they can start doing any damage. If the access to the cryptographic functions, such as the random number generator, is not granted, the ransomware is unable to build a strong encryption key, and it is unable to deploy its intended effect.