Printer Identity Security via PKI Key Storage
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Solution Overview
Problem
Printing devices are increasingly vulnerable to unauthorized access and reconfiguration, leading to potential data breaches and damage, as they become more interconnected, making it difficult to ensure their security and authenticity.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for establishing a unique and secure identity for printing devices at the manufacturing stage, using Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) with unique private and public keys stored in a secure memory portion, to authenticate operations and prevent unauthorized firmware, hardware, or software configurations, thereby enhancing security and integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If printing devices are made more interconnected to improve functionality and connectivity, then the device's adaptability and ease of operation are improved, but the device becomes more vulnerable to unauthorized access and security attacks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing a secure identity and cryptographic credentials for the printing device during the manufacturing process, before the device is deployed to the field. This pre-configured security identity includes private keys stored in secure memory and digital certificates that enable the device to authenticate itself and protect against unauthorized access. By performing security configuration in advance at the factory, the device is hardened against attacks before it becomes vulnerable in the field.
2Reliability
If security measures are strengthened to protect against unauthorized access, then the device's reliability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements the nested doll principle by embedding a secure memory portion within the printing device that contains cryptographic credentials and identity information. This nested secure element provides a layered security architecture where the secure memory is embedded within the broader device system, creating a protected core that stores sensitive information while the rest of the device operates normally. This nesting approach enhances security without requiring complete redesign of the entire device architecture.
3Reliability
If a secure identity is established at manufacturing to prevent unauthorized configurations, then the device's reliability is improved, but the manufacturing process complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an intermediary approach by introducing a certificate authority (CA) that acts as a trusted third party during the manufacturing process. The CA issues digital certificates to the printing device based on the device's unique identity, creating a chain of trust that verifies firmware authenticity. This intermediary CA system simplifies the manufacturing process by providing a standardized method for establishing security credentials, rather than requiring each manufacturer to implement their own complex verification systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for establishing a secure identity for a printing device at the time of manufacturing is provided. The method includes obtaining a first private key for use with a first operation of the printing device and obtaining a second private key for use with a second operation of the printing device. The method also includes loading the first private key into a secure memory portion of the printing device during manufacturing of the printing device, and loading the second private key into the secure memory portion of the printing device during manufacturing of the printing device.