Secure Time Reference Virtualization for DRM
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing time/date generators in electronic systems are vulnerable to manipulation, which compromises the security of limited-time restrictions in applications such as Digital Rights Management (DRM), and there is a need to differentiate between secure and non-secure time manipulation across various applications.
Innovation Solution
A system that employs a secure time reference with a validity indicator, where applications generate virtual time references based on this secure source, ensuring authentication and preventing unauthorized manipulation by using a secure interface and authentication process, thereby maintaining the integrity of time/date information.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a secure time reference with authentication is implemented, then security against manipulation is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The time reference system is segmented into a secure hardware-based time generator and separate software-based virtual time references. The secure time reference is isolated in a protected environment while virtual time references are provided to applications, creating distinct security zones that prevent manipulation while maintaining functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
A validity indicator acts as an intermediary between the secure time reference and applications. This intermediary component authenticates the time reference and controls access, allowing applications to use time information without direct access to the secure source, thus preventing manipulation while enabling controlled usage.
2Adaptability or versatility
If virtual time references are generated for applications, then adaptability for different application needs is improved, but reliability may be compromised due to potential manipulation
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments time reference provision into a protected secure source and multiple unprotected virtual references. Each application receives its own virtual time reference that is derived from but isolated from the secure source, allowing customized time manipulation for each application while the secure source remains tamper-proof.
Solution Approach 2:
The validity indicator serves as an intermediary that authenticates each virtual time reference against the secure source. This allows applications to have flexible virtual time references while the intermediary ensures none can deviate from the secure source, maintaining integrity despite adaptability.
Data Source
AI summary
A system is provided that includes a processor and a system memory coupled to the processor, the system memory stores at least one application for execution by the processor. The system also includes logic coupled to the processor, the logic providing a secure time reference. The processor selectively accesses the secure time reference to generate a virtual time reference for the at least one application.