Data Processing System Location Verification via Out-of-Band Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Data processing systems are vulnerable to unauthorized modifications and compromise during transportation due to unreliable location data, which can lead to unintended use and loss of data, and existing methods fail to provide reliable location tracking during vulnerable periods.
Innovation Solution
Implementing out-of-band components and communication channels to manage location data independently from in-band components, using a management controller to obtain and verify location data through multiple sources, ensuring the data's reliability and integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If in-band components and communication channels are used to track location data, then the system can monitor device movement, but the location data becomes unreliable and vulnerable to compromise during transportation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the location tracking system into two independent segments: in-band components for normal operations and out-of-band components for secure location tracking during transportation. The out-of-band management controller and communication channel operate independently from the main hardware resources, creating a separate secure pathway that prevents compromise of location data even when in-band components are affected by unauthorized modifications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an out-of-band management controller as an intermediary component that specifically handles location data collection and verification. This intermediary operates through a dedicated out-of-band communication channel, acting as a mediator between the location tracking function and the external verification system, thereby isolating the critical location data from potential attacks on the main system.
2Reliability
If out-of-band components and communication channels are implemented, then location data reliability is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the system into distinct functional areas with the out-of-band management controller handling only location tracking responsibilities through a dedicated communication channel. This segmentation allows the complex secure tracking function to be isolated from the main system operations, making the overall system more manageable despite the added complexity of the out-of-band infrastructure.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for managing operations of data processing system are disclosed. To manage operations of the data processing system, a management controller of the data processing system may obtain and provide validated location data in the form of a location report for the data processing system to an external device via an out-of-band communication channel. The validated location data may be used to verify whether the data processing system is following expected geographical routes. By identifying any inconsistencies between the validated location data and expected geographical locations, the likelihood of identifying potential unauthorized modifications or other forms of compromise of the data processing system may be increased.