Polymorphic File Self-Destruction Algorithm
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing file security methods, such as password-protected encryption, do not prevent unauthorized access or distribution of files after deletion, and lack mechanisms to ensure secure destruction of file contents.
Innovation Solution
A method is introduced where a file is stored in a predefined format with an integrated algorithm that checks predefined trigger criteria upon opening, destroying file contents if criteria are met, and modifying the algorithm to prevent unauthorized access or copying, using a polymorphic approach that changes form after opening and cannot be recognized.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If password-protected encryption is used to protect file security, then authorized users can control access to files, but the file contents can still be copied or distributed after deletion and do not ensure secure destruction of file contents
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates a self-destruct algorithm into the file that is triggered automatically under predefined conditions (such as multiple failed password attempts, detection of unauthorized copying, or passage of time). This preliminary action ensures that if unauthorized access or copying is detected, the file contents are automatically destroyed, preventing the problem of copied files circulating after deletion.
Solution Approach 2:
The file contains an embedded algorithm that autonomously monitors for security violations and executes self-destruction without requiring external intervention. The file serves itself by detecting unauthorized access attempts or copying actions and automatically destroying its own contents, thereby ensuring secure destruction that cannot be bypassed by external deletion commands.
2Reliability
If an integrated self-destruct algorithm is added to the file to ensure secure destruction, then file contents can be destroyed when trigger criteria are satisfied, but the device complexity and algorithm storage requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a universal self-destruct algorithm that can be integrated into various file formats and operates under multiple different trigger conditions (password failures, copying detection, time-based triggers). This multi-functional algorithm handles diverse security scenarios with a single integrated solution, reducing the need for separate complex mechanisms for each security requirement.
Solution Approach 2:
The algorithm modifies its behavior and trigger thresholds based on detected parameters such as the number of failed password attempts, type of access violation, or time elapsed. By dynamically adjusting parameters rather than requiring fixed complex logic for every scenario, the system achieves high reliability with manageable complexity.
3Reliability
If the algorithm is modified to prevent copying onto specific media, then unauthorized distribution is reduced, but the difficulty of detecting and measuring copying attempts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary anti-action by embedding watermarks, unique identifiers, or cryptographic signatures into the file before distribution. These embedded markers enable automatic detection of unauthorized copying attempts without requiring complex analysis of the copied content. When copying is detected through these pre-placed markers, the self-destruct algorithm is triggered.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses feedback mechanisms where the embedded algorithm continuously monitors for signs of copying (such as unauthorized program execution or media writing attempts) and provides feedback that triggers the self-destruct sequence. This feedback loop allows the system to detect and respond to copying attempts automatically, reducing the need for manual detection while maintaining high reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
A method of destroying file contents of a file includes storing the file in a predefined file format, wherein a first part of the algorithm is integrated into a pre-execution header of the file called by an executing program or an executing operating system when the file is opened and a second part of the algorithm is integrated into a second part of the file, called by the first part of the algorithm when the first part of the algorithm is called by the executing program or the executing operating system, and modifying of the integrated algorithm includes modifying a storage structure of the algorithm so that it occurs in changed form after the opening of the file and cannot be recognized as before and storing the modified algorithm in the file.