On-Chip Secure Element for Set-Top Box Data Protection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional data protection systems in set-top boxes are inadequate in preventing unauthorized access and ensuring secure data transmission, particularly in fee-based video broadcasting systems, where security keys are vulnerable to unauthorized use and corruption.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that control encryption and decryption processes based on source and destination rules, utilizing a key table stored on-chip, with the ability to generate and manage encryption keys within the chip, and employing various encryption standards like AES and DES to secure multimedia data transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional conditional access systems are used in set-top boxes, then basic encryption can be implemented, but security keys become vulnerable to unauthorized access and corruption
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the encryption system into multiple independent components: a secure element (separate security module) and a main processor. Security keys are stored and managed in the isolated secure element, physically separated from the main system, preventing unauthorized access while maintaining encryption functionality. This segmentation isolates the critical security functions from potential attack vectors in the main system.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a secure element as an intermediary between the main processor and external communication interfaces. This secure element acts as a mediator that handles all cryptographic operations, key management, and secure data transmission, preventing direct access to security keys by the main system or external attackers. The intermediary architecture ensures that even if the main system is compromised, the security keys remain protected.
2Ease of operation
If security keys are stored in conventional memory, then access is simple, but the keys are vulnerable to corruption and unauthorized use
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the security key storage and management functions from the conventional memory system and places them in a dedicated secure element. This extraction separates the sensitive security functions from the general-purpose memory, providing enhanced protection against corruption and unauthorized access while maintaining controlled access through secure authentication mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different security qualities to different parts of the system: the secure element implements high-security measures including isolated hardware security modules, secure key storage with physical protection, and controlled access protocols, while the main processor uses conventional memory for non-sensitive data. This local quality differentiation ensures that security keys receive the highest level of protection appropriate to their sensitivity.
3Reliability
If frequent key changes are implemented, then security is enhanced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The secure element implements self-service capabilities for key generation, storage, and rotation. The system automatically manages cryptographic key lifecycles including generation, distribution, rotation, and revocation without requiring manual intervention or complex external key management infrastructure. This self-service approach simplifies the overall system architecture while enabling frequent key changes for enhanced security.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary key generation and secure storage setup during the initial provisioning phase, before the set-top box enters service. Security keys are pre-generated and securely stored in the secure element, and key management policies are pre-configured, enabling automatic frequent key rotation during operation without adding operational complexity. The preliminary setup eliminates the need for complex runtime key management decisions.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for protecting data may include controlling encryption and/or decryption and identifying a destination of corresponding encrypted and/or decrypted data, utilizing rules based on a source location of the data prior to the encryption or decryption and an algorithm that may have been previously utilized for encrypting and/or decrypting the data prior to the data being stored in the source location. The source location and/or destination of the data may comprise protected or unprotected memory. One or more of a plurality of algorithms may be utilized for the encryption and/or decryption. The rules may be stored in a key table, which may be stored on-chip, and may be reprogrammable. One or more keys for the encryption and/or decryption may be generated within the chip.