Security Program File Tracking via Attribute Collection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods face challenges in effectively tracking and managing the spread of leaked electronic files across the internet, as they require dedicated software installation on all devices and lack efficient mechanisms for specifying and deleting the routes of file propagation.
Innovation Solution
A security measure program that collects and assigns attribute information to files, allowing for tracking and transmission of this information to a distributor computer, which then searches for and manages the associated files, utilizing existing software resources to track and potentially perform procedures on the files.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a common file tracking application is installed in all information processing devices connected to the Internet, then leaked electronic files can be tracked effectively, but it becomes difficult to have dedicated software installed in all devices worldwide
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the security measure program perform multiple functions: it not only provides security checks but also collects attribute information from files and participates in tracking leaked files. By integrating file tracking functionality into existing security software that is already widely installed, the system achieves universal coverage without requiring separate dedicated tracking software installation on each device
Solution Approach 2:
The security measure program automatically collects attribute information from files and transmits it to the management device without requiring user intervention. The system self-configures and self-operates, utilizing existing security infrastructure to enable tracking capabilities across distributed devices
2Productivity
If dedicated tracking software is installed on each device, then file propagation routes can be specified and deleted, but the device complexity and software distribution burden increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the file tracking functionality with the existing security measure program and centralizes management operations in a single management device. Instead of distributing complex tracking software to each device, the system combines local attribute collection with centralized tracking and control, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining propagation control capability
Solution Approach 2:
The management device acts as an intermediary that receives attribute information from multiple security measure programs, performs tracking analysis, and coordinates file propagation control. This intermediary approach simplifies the architecture by centralizing complex tracking logic while keeping local security programs lightweight
3Ease of operation
If attribute information is collected and assigned to files using existing security measure programs, then the need for widespread dedicated software installation is reduced, but the capability to track and manage leaked files must be maintained
Solution Approach 1:
The security measure program collects and assigns attribute information to files in advance, before any leakage occurs. This preliminary collection of file characteristics (hash values, metadata, etc.) enables rapid tracking and identification of leaked files later, maintaining tracking capability while using existing widely-installed security software
Data Source
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AI summary
A collection and assignment unit collects attribute information for each file and assigns attribute information to a file to which attribute information is not assigned, when checking a file in a present information processing device. A reception unit receives attribute information of a tracking target file from a distribution device that distributes a pattern file. A search unit searches for a file associated with the attribute information of the tracking target file that is received. A transmission/procedure unit transmits, when there exists information regarding the file associated with the attribute information, the information regarding the file associated with the attribute information of the tracking target file to the distribution device and/or performs a procedure on the file.