Forensic Data Tracking with Embedded Identifiers for Encrypted Transfers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data protection systems fail to provide comprehensive tracking and management of sensitive data as it moves between authorized and unauthorized devices and users, leading to breaches and compliance issues with regulatory requirements such as HIPAA and PCI.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for tracking data files and elements using a Forensic Computing Platform that scans, classifies, and encodes data based on predefined text strings, enabling complete visibility, auditability, and management of sensitive information across various cloud storage systems and user environments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional encryption and access control measures are used, then data security is improved, but data movement tracking capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system embeds forensic identifiers and tracking codes into data files before they are encrypted or transferred. This preliminary action ensures that even when data is encrypted and moved between authorized and unauthorized devices, the tracking information remains embedded and can be retrieved later to trace the data's journey, thus maintaining both security and trackability simultaneously
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary forensic tracking layer that operates between the encryption mechanism and the data itself. This intermediary component (forensic identifier) does not interfere with encryption's security function but adds the capability to track data movement independently, resolving the contradiction by adding a mediating tracking function that works alongside encryption
2Loss of information
If comprehensive data tracking is implemented, then data visibility is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the tracking function into independent, modular components: forensic identifier embedding, tracking code insertion, and separate analysis modules. This segmentation allows the tracking capability to be added without complicating the core data management system, as each component operates independently and can be implemented in a standardized, repeatable manner
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the parameter of data representation by adding metadata layers (forensic identifiers and tracking codes) without altering the fundamental data structure or requiring complex system restructuring. This parameter change approach allows comprehensive tracking to be achieved through simple additive modifications rather than complex system redesign
3Reliability
If data is encrypted for protection, then security is improved, but data traceability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements nesting by embedding forensic identifiers and tracking codes within the encrypted data structure itself. Like nested dolls, the tracking information is contained within the encrypted package, allowing the data to maintain its security encryption while simultaneously carrying embedded traceability information that can be extracted and analyzed without decryption of the main data content
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to a method and system for tracking the movement of data elements as they are shared and moved between authorized and unauthorized devices and among authorized and unauthorized users.