Physical Key Identity Matching for Digital File Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current cryptographic techniques for secure digital file transmission are vulnerable to unauthorized access due to the strength of cryptographic keys, and existing physical keys are not adapted to control access to digital files effectively, particularly in industries like multimedia production where large files are exchanged.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that encrypt digital files with a header containing permitted access identity data corresponding to a physical key, allowing decryption only if the physical key's identity matches the header's access identity, ensuring secure transmission and access to designated recipients.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If cryptographic techniques are used to secure digital file transmission, then security is improved, but the actual security remains vulnerable to key access or copying
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a physical key as an intermediary device between the user and the digital file. This physical key contains identification data that must match the permitted access identity in the file header, creating a mediating layer that prevents direct access to cryptographic keys and eliminates the vulnerability of key copying or access.
2Reliability
If physical keys with unique identification are associated with reading computers, then physical access control is improved, but the keys are not adapted to limit access to secure data files
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the physical key multi-functional by using it for both physical computer access control and digital file access control. The same physical key with unique identification data serves dual purposes: securing the computer system and securing specific digital files, thereby eliminating the need for separate access control mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extends the scope of physical key functionality from the physical dimension (computer access) to the digital dimension (file access). By embedding permitted access identity in the file header that corresponds to the physical key's identification, the system creates a new dimension of access control that bridges physical and digital security.
3Reliability
If proxy video files with watermarks are used for secure transmission, then security is improved, but the files may still be pilfered and disseminated widely
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a physical key as an intermediary authentication mechanism that goes beyond watermarks. Instead of relying solely on deterrent watermarks, the system requires physical key verification for file access, creating a robust barrier against piracy that controls actual file usage rather than just discouraging theft.
4Reliability
If cryptographic keys are made stronger to improve security, then encryption strength is improved, but the complexity of key management increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cryptographic key management complexity from the system by using a physical key with embedded identification data. Instead of managing complex cryptographic keys digitally, the system uses a physical artifact that contains identification data, thereby simplifying key management while maintaining strong encryption through the physical authentication layer.
Data Source
AI summary
A digital file is associated with a security attribute in which identification data for a physical key is stored. The digital file content is encrypted, and may not be decrypted by a receiving computer unless a removable physical key that can be associated with the receiving computer includes identification data which matches the identification data stored in the file's security attribute. The digital content encrypted in the file may be compressed, and a portion of the security attribute may also be encrypted. When a portion of the security attribute is encrypted, the receiving computer may decrypt only the encrypted portion of the security attribute unless the identification data of the security attribute matches the identification data of a physical key physically or wirelessly coupled to the receiving computer. Improved security and reduction of pirating of the digital content are therefore provided.