Multi-function device secure scanning with identity key encoding
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current password-based secure scanning features in multi-functional devices offer inadequate data protection, as passwords can be shared or hacked, leading to potential leaks of confidential data.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a secure scanning method using an identity key to encode scanned document content, ensuring access is restricted to multi-function devices configured with the same identity key, thereby enhancing data protection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If password-based secure scanning is used, then users can access scanned documents with a password, but data protection is insufficient as passwords can be shared or hacked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an identity key as an intermediary element that mediates between the scanning device and the scanned document. The identity key is embedded in the document metadata and tied to the specific device that scanned it, creating a device-specific access control mechanism that goes beyond simple password protection
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the security parameter from a user-defined password to a device-specific identity key that is automatically generated and embedded in the document. This parameter change transforms the security model from manual password management to automated device-based security
2Reliability
If identity key encoding is implemented, then access is restricted to devices with the same identity key, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The scanning device automatically performs the identity key encoding and embedding process without requiring manual intervention. The device services itself by automatically securing its own scanned documents with its unique identity key, eliminating the need for complex manual security configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The identity key is embedded in the document metadata at the time of scanning, before the document is stored or transmitted. This preliminary security action ensures that the document is secured from the moment of creation, preventing later security issues
3Adaptability or versatility
If password protection is used, then users can share documents by sharing passwords, but confidential data can be leaked
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by making the security restriction device-specific rather than user-specific. The identity key encoding ensures that only the particular device that scanned the document (or devices with the same identity key) can access it, while other devices cannot, creating localized security at the device level
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure discloses methods and systems providing a secure scanning. A method includes receiving a document for scanning, by a multi-function device, wherein the multi-function device is configured with an identity key, wherein the multi-function device is enabled with a secure scanning feature. An image data corresponding to the document is generated. A scanned document corresponding to the image data is generated. Then, content of the scanned document is encoded with the identity key of the multi-function device, to secure the content in the scanned document, wherein the content of the scanned document is accessible only at a device having the identity key. The device can be the same multi-function device that encodes the content of the scanned document. The device can be a different multi-function device but configured with the same identity as of the multi-function device.