Data Storage Device Physical Feature Alteration for Secure Repurposing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data storage devices lack a secure and efficient method to repurpose secure data storage devices, often resulting in unnecessary disposal when security features are tampered with or when they are upgraded, as complete disabling of the device is the only solution in prior art.
Innovation Solution
A data storage device with physically alterable features, such as resistors, capacitors, or removable chips, that allows users to disable host access to secure data, enabling the device to be repurposed by altering a physical feature, thereby enabling access to secondary data storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If complete disabling of the data storage device is implemented when security tampering is detected, then security is improved, but device usability and lifecycle are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The data storage device is segmented into multiple independent data areas (secure data area and non-secure data area), allowing selective access control. The secure data area can be independently disabled while the non-secure data area remains accessible, enabling device repurposing without complete disabling.
Solution Approach 2:
Different quality levels of security are applied to different parts of the storage device. The secure data area maintains high security with authentication and encryption, while the non-secure data area allows broader access. This local differentiation enables partial disabling for repurposing.
2Reliability
If authentication and encryption security features are implemented, then data protection is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Security features are segmented and applied only to the secure data area rather than the entire device. The authentication module and encryption module operate selectively on secure data, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining strong protection where needed.
3Reliability
If secret keys are stored in the data storage device for security implementation, then security functionality is improved, but vulnerability to tampering increases
Solution Approach 1:
Secret keys are stored locally within the data storage device in a protected key storage area, enabling security functionality while isolating the keys from external tampering. The keys remain within the device boundaries, maintaining security functionality while reducing exposure to external harmful factors.
Data Source
AI summary
A data storage device is disclosed comprising a non-volatile memory and control circuitry operable to evaluate a physical feature of the data storage device, wherein the physical feature is physically alterable by a user. When the physical feature is in a first state, host access to first secure data stored in the non-volatile memory is enabled, and when the physical feature is in a second state, the host access to the first secure data is disabled and host access to second data stored in the non-volatile memory is enabled.