Dynamic File Deletion Algorithm Selection for Secure Data Erasure

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing file deletion methods do not provide a dynamic selection of data erasing algorithms based on file parameters and user criteria, leading to potential data recovery and lack of centralized control, especially in mobile storage devices.

Innovation Solution

A system for permanent data deletion that dynamically forms deletion algorithms based on file parameters such as extension, size, location, and user-defined criteria, using a database of rules and an algorithm forming unit to select and execute appropriate operations for secure file erasure.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If standard OS deletion methods are used, then files become invisible and space is freed, but data remains on storage and can be recovered by special utilities

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeletion speedVSAvoidpermanent deletion guarantee
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system dynamically selects deletion algorithms based on file parameters (extension, size, location) and user criteria, adapting the deletion approach rather than using a fixed method. This allows optimization between speed and security for each specific file

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The system changes parameters such as number of overwriting passes, type of overwriting data (zeros, random bytes), and deletion methodology based on file characteristics and security requirements, transforming a static deletion process into a variable one

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

2Reliability

If multi-pass erasing algorithms are used, then data restoration probability decreases, but deletion time increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedata restoration preventionVSAvoiddeletion time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system varies the number of overwriting passes and type of overwriting data based on file parameters and user-defined criteria, allowing flexible adjustment between security and speed requirements for different files

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

Solution Approach 2:

The deletion algorithm is dynamically formed and selected based on real-time analysis of file characteristics, enabling the system to adapt the intensity and duration of deletion operations to match actual security needs

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Ease of operation

If a fixed deletion algorithm is used for all files, then the system is simple to operate, but it cannot adapt to different file types and security requirements

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem simplicityVSAvoidalgorithm selection flexibility
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The system automatically analyzes file parameters and selects appropriate deletion algorithms without requiring user intervention, making the complex adaptive system as easy to use as a simple one while providing intelligent adaptation

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system dynamically forms deletion algorithms based on file characteristics and user criteria, automatically adapting to different file types and security requirements without manual configuration

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

4Reliability

If centralized control is implemented, then deletion policy compliance is improved, but system complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedeletion policy enforcementVSAvoidsystem architecture complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system provides centralized control with feedback mechanisms that monitor and enforce deletion policies across the network, ensuring compliance while managing complexity through automated policy application

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP2363815B1System for permanent file deletion
Publication Date: 2014.10.15 AO KASPERSKY LAB
  • EP2363815B1 patent drawingFigure 1
  • EP2363815B1 patent drawingFigure 2
  • EP2363815B1 patent drawingFigure 3

AI summary

A system for permanent data deletion is provided. The file deletion system consists of a permanent deletion unit, an analysis module, a database of rules for forming deletion algorithm and an algorithm forming unit. A file to be deleted is passed into the system and the system permanently deletes the file. The system dynamically forms the deletion algorithm based on algorithm forming rules. The rules are selected from the database according to file parameters and user criteria. The file parameters are determined by the analysis module. A user has an access to algorithm forming rules and can edit the rules. Algorithm forming rules can be based on an arbitrary number of complex conditions.