Database Search Limiting System for Preventing Unauthorized Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Private workplace databases are often abused for personal purposes, as seen in the misuse of a Michigan public servants' database for stalking and tracking individuals, highlighting the need for enhanced security measures to prevent such abuse.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that limits the number of searches on a target person or object within a database, with notifications sent to supervisors when the maximum number of searches is exceeded, and allowing exceptions based on active investigations or specific circumstances, such as increased search limits for vehicles involved in incidents.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If search limits are imposed on database targets, then database security is improved and abuse is prevented, but legitimate investigative access may be restricted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic search limits that automatically adjust based on the target's involvement in investigations. The system monitors investigation status and dynamically modifies the number of allowed searches for specific targets, enabling flexible access control that adapts to changing investigative needs while maintaining security for non-investigative use
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where search patterns and investigation status are continuously monitored. When a target becomes involved in an investigation, the system receives feedback about this status change and automatically adjusts search limits accordingly, ensuring that legitimate investigative access is maintained while preventing abuse in non-investigative contexts
2Adaptability or versatility
If unlimited searches are allowed on targets, then investigative flexibility is maintained, but database abuse for personal purposes increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by establishing default search limits on all database targets before abuse can occur. These preemptive restrictions prevent stalking and personal abuse by limiting the number of searches that can be conducted on any individual target, while still allowing legitimate investigative needs to be met through dynamic adjustments when investigations are authorized
3Reliability
If search monitoring and notifications are implemented, then supervisor awareness and control are improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service automation where the database search system automatically monitors search counts, tracks investigation status, determines when limits are exceeded, and sends notifications to supervisors without requiring manual intervention. This automated self-monitoring approach provides comprehensive supervisor control while minimizing the added complexity by eliminating the need for manual tracking and notification systems
Data Source
AI summary
A method and apparatus for better securing databases is provided herein. During a database search, a target of a search (e.g., a person or object) will have a maximum number of allowed searches. When a user performs a search on a target, a determination of how many prior searches on the target object or individual was made. If the number of prior searches exceeds a threshold, then the search will be denied.