Magnetic Storage Data Timestamp and Read Counter
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data storage technologies face challenges in detecting data tampering and access, particularly in preventing unauthorized access and tracking data access history, which is crucial in preventing misinformation and malicious data manipulation.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a data timestamp and/or read counter using a write assist element in the write head to degrade data or markers after access, allowing for tracking of access history without rewriting the original data, and utilizing a timestamp to record and update access times.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If data is made tamperproof to prevent unauthorized access, then data security is improved, but data accessibility and usability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by embedding tamper-evident markers and timestamps into data during the writing process, before any potential unauthorized access occurs. This allows the system to proactively detect and respond to tampering attempts without preventing legitimate access in advance.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces intermediary elements (tamper-evident markers, timestamps, and detection mechanisms) that mediate between the data and potential unauthorized access. These intermediaries provide evidence of access without blocking the data itself, resolving the contradiction between security and accessibility.
2Reliability
If data access tracking is implemented to detect tampering, then data security monitoring is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges data access tracking functionality with existing storage operations by integrating timestamps and tamper-evident markers into the normal write and read processes. This combination allows tracking without requiring separate complex monitoring systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements self-service by making the data storage medium itself carry the tracking information through embedded markers and timestamps. The medium automatically provides access history and tamper evidence without requiring external tracking infrastructure.
3Measurement precision
If read counter is implemented to track access times, then data access detection is improved, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses copying by creating redundant timestamp and marker copies that are written alongside the actual data. These copies serve as access tracking records without requiring complex manufacturing processes, as they use the same write operations as the primary data.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables detection of data access and tracking of access history, providing tamper-evidence and aiding in differentiating between 'hot' and 'cold' data, while maintaining data integrity and security.
Implementation Method 1
apply current to the write assist element, wherein the applied current: is insufficient to cause data to be written to the magnetic storage media, and changes an amplitude of the read data or a mark on the magnetic storage media
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure generally relates to using a data timestamp and/or a read counter to prevent data from being re-read and signal that the data has been accessed. The write assist element in the write head can be utilized to degrade the data or an allocated marker after the data has been read. The degradation functions as a read counter to indicate how many times the data has been read. Additionally and/or alternatively, a timestamp can be utilized. The timestamp is updated each time that the data has been accessed. In so doing, it is possible to determine whether data in a data storage device has been accessed.