Hidden File System Within Standard Storage Using Random Cipher
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing file systems lack the ability to create and manage hidden electronic file systems, where the existence and location of files, directories, and free space are not discernible without proper password sequences, and data is not secured effectively against unauthorized access.
Innovation Solution
A system utilizing a random cipher to encrypt data and directory structures within a non-hidden file system, where files and directories are only exposed upon correct password application, and the use of pre-allocated files within a standard file system to contain a hidden file system, ensuring data remains encrypted and secure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a standard file system is used to store data, then data accessibility and ease of operation are improved, but data security and the ability to hide files are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a hidden file system nested within a standard file system by allocating specific files as containers that hold both visible and hidden file system data structures. The hidden file system is embedded within the standard file system's file allocations, allowing dual-layer access where the same physical storage serves both visible and concealed purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a file allocation table as an intermediary layer that manages both visible and hidden file allocations. This intermediary structure enables the system to distinguish between visible and hidden files while maintaining a unified storage mechanism, allowing standard file operations to work transparently while providing additional hidden storage capabilities.
2Object-affected harmful factors
If files are hidden within a standard file system, then data security is improved, but the ability to determine file existence and location is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The hidden file system nesting technique conceals hidden files within the structure of the standard file system, making them indistinguishable from visible files without proper authorization. The file allocation table embeds hidden file information within the same data structures used for visible files, preventing detection through standard file system examination methods.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different access properties to different portions of the file allocation table, where certain entries are marked as visible and others as hidden. This local differentiation allows the system to provide standard access to visible files while restricting access to hidden files, creating security through localized property assignment rather than system-wide changes.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If a hidden file system is implemented within a standard file system, then data protection is improved, but system complexity is worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The file allocation table serves multiple functions simultaneously: it manages visible file allocations, manages hidden file allocations, and provides the mechanism for switching between visible and hidden states. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate complex structures, as the same data structure performs multiple security and management roles.
Solution Approach 2:
By nesting the hidden file system within the standard file system using the same file allocation structures, the patent avoids creating entirely separate management systems. The hidden file system reuses the standard file allocation table and file structures, reducing overall system complexity while providing enhanced security functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and method for creating a hidden electronic file system within a non-hidden electronic file system are provided. Files within a non-hidden electronic file system are pre-allocated and populated with a number of payload blocks, a first portion of which include user data to be covertly stored, a second portion of which include directory information pointing to first portion of payload blocks, and a third portion of which is configured for use as free and available space for new or replacement data. Each of a number of cipher blocks comprise random numbers to be used as a cipher for a corresponding one of the number of payload blocks. Each of the payload blocks is encrypted by an associated one of the cipher blocks.