Outbound Communication PII Detection Module
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users inadvertently expose personal identifying information (PII) during everyday online interactions, posing risks of identity theft and security threats due to the lack of effective tools for managing and tracking PII in outbound communications.
Innovation Solution
A content upload safety technique that monitors outbound communications using a detection module to identify PII, allowing users to manage and track its release, with options to delete, modify, or permit the content, and providing a warning system based on predefined and user-defined preferences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users engage in everyday online interactions (e-mail, instant messaging, chats, social networking, postings), then communication and information sharing are enabled, but personal identifying information (PII) is inadvertently exposed creating security risks
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary scanning and detection of PII in content before it is uploaded or shared online. The detection module analyzes outbound communications, email attachments, and web postings to identify PII patterns before the user completes the upload action, allowing preventive measures to be taken.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary detection module and management system between the user and the online upload process. This intermediary component scans content, detects PII, and manages the upload process, acting as a mediator that protects users from inadvertently exposing PII while still enabling legitimate online interactions.
2Reliability
If PII detection and monitoring tools are implemented in outbound communications, then PII exposure risk is reduced, but system complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The detection system is segmented into modular components including a detection module for scanning content, a management module for handling detected PII, and integrated components that work with existing email and web applications. This segmentation allows the system to be implemented incrementally and reduces overall complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection module automatically scans and identifies PII in outbound communications without requiring user intervention. The system self-manages the detection process, uses predefined PII definitions for automatic recognition, and provides automated warnings and management options, reducing the need for complex manual configuration.
3Measurement precision
If comprehensive PII detection is performed on all outbound communications, then PII identification accuracy is improved, but processing time and user workflow efficiency decrease
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial detection by focusing on outbound communications and attachments where PII exposure risk is highest, rather than scanning all possible data types uniformly. The detection module prioritizes email attachments, web postings, and other high-risk channels, providing sufficient protection without unnecessarily processing low-risk communications.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual PII review and management with automated detection algorithms and pattern recognition systems. The detection module uses automated scanning, keyword matching, and PII pattern recognition to identify sensitive information, substituting manual mechanical review processes with automated electronic detection that is both accurate and efficient.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments of content safety upload techniques are presented herein. In an implementation, outbound communications of client are monitored to detect personal identifying information (PII) in the content being communicated. Upon detection of PII one or more actions may be taken to manage the PII, for example warning a user, providing options to send or delete the communication, seeking approval and so on. Further, released PII may be tracked to permit reporting and subsequent management of PII released in outbound communications.