Offline Password Reset With Hash Matching for Critical Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for resetting passwords on critical devices that cannot be power cycled or factory reset are insecure and disruptive, particularly in offline scenarios where traditional password reset methods are not feasible.
Innovation Solution
A two-stage process involving enrollment and recovery, using a PC-based application as an intermediary, authenticates the device and user, generates and compares hash values to securely reset passwords without power cycling, utilizing a password recovery system with hash value matching for verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional password reset methods are used on critical devices, then password recovery is achieved, but system downtime and power cycling occur
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by pre-generating encrypted challenge-response pairs and storing them securely on the device before password reset is needed. When password recovery is required, the system uses these pre-prepared cryptographic materials to authenticate and reset passwords without requiring power cycling or factory reset, thus avoiding system downtime
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary cryptographic authentication mechanism that mediates between the lost password and system access. Instead of directly resetting the password through traditional methods that cause downtime, the system uses challenge-response authentication with pre-shared keys and encrypted communications as an intermediary to securely reset passwords while maintaining continuous operation
2Adaptability or versatility
If offline password reset is implemented for remote devices, then password recovery is enabled, but security verification becomes challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary security setup by establishing secure cryptographic credentials and challenge-response pairs during device initialization or enrollment phases. These pre-configured security materials enable offline verification without requiring real-time connection to a authentication server, thus providing both offline capability and maintained security
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses cryptographic copying by creating and storing encrypted copies of authentication credentials (challenge-response pairs, pre-shared keys) both on the device and in secure storage. These cryptographic copies enable offline authentication and password reset while maintaining security verification through cryptographic proof rather than physical presence
Data Source
AI summary
A computer-implemented method and system for providing secure password reset functionality for a password protected device. Receiving, in a password reset computer server, is a request code for enabling password reset functionality for the password protected device. The request code is parsed to identify the password protected device for generating a recovery string including at least metadata and a unique identifier associated with the password protected device. A first hash value representation of the recovery string is generated for the password protected device. The first hash value is then compared to a second hash value, which second hash value is generated by another computer device and is representative of a second recovery string that includes at least the metadata and the unique identifier associated with the password protected device. Password reset functionality for the password protected device is enabled when the first and second hash values match.