Secure URL Sharing with Browser Restriction Enforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
In modern computing environments, sharing URLs can pose security risks due to the potential execution of plugins, runtime environments, and tracking cookies, necessitating a framework to enforce browser restrictions during link sharing.
Innovation Solution
A framework that allows sharing URLs with indications for the recipient browser to enable specific browser or URL restrictions, such as private browsing mode, disabling plugins, and blocking tracking cookies, by modifying the URL with embedded commands and using a URL restriction validator service to ensure compliance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If links are shared freely between users, then ease of communication is improved, but security risks increase due to potential plugin execution and tracking
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by automatically enabling private browsing mode and blocking plugins/cookies before the user even views the link. The browser restriction framework is activated in advance, creating a secure environment prior to any potential harm occurring.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary layer - the browser restriction framework - that sits between the shared link and the user's browser. This intermediary enforces security policies by blocking plugins, enabling private browsing, and preventing tracking cookies without requiring direct user intervention.
2Reliability
If browser restrictions are enforced on shared links, then security is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional framework requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The browser restriction framework is designed with multi-functionality, serving multiple security purposes simultaneously: enabling private browsing mode, blocking plugins, preventing tracking cookies, and enforcing enterprise policies. This universal approach consolidates multiple security functions into a single framework, reducing overall system complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework implements self-service by automatically detecting and enforcing security restrictions without requiring manual user configuration. The system autonomously identifies when a link requires restrictions and applies the appropriate browser settings, eliminating the need for complex user-side configuration.
3Object-affected harmful factors
If private browsing mode and plugin blocking are enforced, then tracking and malicious execution are prevented, but user convenience deteriorates due to restricted browser functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts browser behavior based on the link being accessed. When a restricted link is detected, private browsing mode and plugin blocking are temporarily activated only for that specific session. Once the user navigates away or closes the browser, normal browsing behavior resumes, maintaining convenience without permanent restrictions.
Solution Approach 2:
The framework applies partial restrictions only when and where needed - specifically when accessing shared links that require security protection. Normal browsing activities are not affected by these restrictions, allowing users to enjoy full browser functionality for regular use while having enhanced security only when accessing potentially risky shared links.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are various approaches for sharing uniform resource locators (URLs) and enforcing browser restrictions along with a shared URL. Browser restrictions can be identified by appending commands to the shared URL that instruct the receiving browser to activate certain browser restrictions. Browser restrictions can also be enforced using a URL restriction validator, which is a server process that can facilitate enforcement of browser restrictions along with a shared URL.