Immutable Ledger Data Destruction via Segmented Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current blockchain systems face challenges in efficiently deleting data while maintaining the integrity and availability of immutable distributed ledgers, particularly in compliance with data retention policies and regulations like GDPR, which require the deletion of personally identifiable information.
Innovation Solution
The system introduces a method to render data inaccessible on a distributed ledger by using transient data fields and side databases, allowing smart contracts to process and delete data without storing it on the blockchain, while maintaining the ledger's integrity and allowing for data restoration.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is stored on an immutable distributed ledger, then the integrity and availability of the ledger is maintained, but the ability to delete data according to data retention policies is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments data storage into two distinct locations: the immutable distributed ledger stores only cryptographic hashes and metadata, while the actual data is stored in a separate mutable database. This segmentation allows the ledger to maintain integrity while enabling data deletion through manipulation of the separate database and hash references.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts the actual data from the immutable ledger by storing only cryptographic hashes on the ledger and keeping the full data in a separate mutable database. This extraction enables data deletion capability while preserving ledger immutability, as deleting data in the mutable database does not affect the hash references on the immutable ledger.
2Adaptability or versatility
If data is deleted from a distributed ledger, then compliance with data retention policies is achieved, but the integrity and availability of the ledger is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments data storage into two distinct locations: the immutable distributed ledger stores only cryptographic hashes and metadata, while the actual data is stored in a separate mutable database. This segmentation allows the ledger to maintain integrity while enabling data deletion through manipulation of the separate database and hash references.
Solution Approach 2:
The system introduces cryptographic hashes as intermediaries between the immutable ledger and the mutable database. The hashes serve as references that link data in the mutable database to records on the immutable ledger, enabling deletion of data in the mutable database without affecting the immutable ledger's integrity.
3Reliability
If data is stored on the blockchain, then the system provides tamper-proof storage, but the system cannot efficiently respond to data destruction requests
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments data storage into two distinct locations: the immutable distributed ledger stores only cryptographic hashes and metadata, while the actual data is stored in a separate mutable database. This segmentation allows efficient data deletion by operating on the mutable database without requiring system-wide operations or disrupting the tamper-proof storage mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts the actual data from the immutable ledger by storing only cryptographic hashes on the ledger and keeping the full data in a separate mutable database. This extraction enables efficient data deletion through direct manipulation of the mutable database, while the immutable ledger maintains its tamper-proof characteristics through hash verification.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for destroying data stored on an immutable distributed ledger utilizes technology from the following fields: encryption, digital signatures, data structures, distributed storage, distributed ledger technology, and smart contracts. Immutable distributed ledgers provide benefits for sensitive data, including availability, integrity, and data processing visibility. The system and method places sensitive data on an immutable distributed ledger and maintains these advantages of immutable distributed ledgers. The system and method also supports the efficient deletion of this sensitive data without compromising the integrity of the ledger.