Offline Backup Storage Switching Against Ransomware Exposure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing data backup systems are vulnerable to cyber threats such as hacking, ransomware, and malware, which can delete or encrypt data, and there is a need for secure off-line backup solutions to protect data from such attacks.
Innovation Solution
A data backup device with a microcontroller that executes rule-based program logic to select and disconnect storage devices after data transfer, using a multiplexer to isolate backups offline, preventing remote access and protecting data from cyber threats.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If data is stored online or in the cloud for easy access, then data accessibility is improved, but data vulnerability to cyber threats increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments backup storage across multiple offline storage devices rather than using a single centralized online storage system. The multiplexer divides the data path to different storage devices based on scheduling criteria, creating isolated backup segments that are not simultaneously accessible, thereby reducing the attack surface for cyber threats while maintaining data accessibility through scheduled rotations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system extracts data from the online environment and transfers it to offline storage devices. By taking backups offline and physically disconnecting storage devices after data transfer, the system removes data from the vulnerable networked environment while preserving accessibility through scheduled offline access.
2Reliability
If multiple storage devices are continuously connected for backup redundancy, then backup reliability is improved, but exposure to cyber threats increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements periodic connection and disconnection of storage devices based on scheduled criteria. Storage devices are connected only during scheduled backup windows and disconnected afterward, creating periodic access patterns that maintain backup reliability through rotation while minimizing exposure to cyber threats by limiting the time window for potential attacks.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes the connection state of storage devices based on scheduling criteria. Rather than maintaining static continuous connections, the multiplexer dynamically switches between different storage devices, connecting them only when needed for backup operations and disconnecting them afterward, thereby adapting the system's connectivity to operational requirements and reducing constant exposure.
3Ease of operation
If storage devices remain connected for easy data retrieval, then data accessibility is improved, but security against remote attacks deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by scheduling and automating the connection of storage devices before data retrieval operations are needed. Storage devices are automatically connected according to predetermined schedules, allowing users to retrieve data during scheduled windows without manually managing connections, thus maintaining ease of access while ensuring security through automated disconnection after scheduled periods.
Data Source
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AI summary
Devices and methods for backing up digital data on storage devices which are automatically selected on an individual basis for digital connection, data exchange and data storage on a scheduled basis and each kept digitally disconnected when not selected and connected for backup data transfer and storage. Devices and methods which backup data on one of a number of an offline storage devices by connecting a selected storage device, backup data onto an offline storage device and then disconnecting the offline storage device, in order to isolate the backed-up data and optionally allow a different storage device to be used for the next back up event.