Selective Voice Masking for Secure Password Input in MFPs
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Solution Overview
Problem
Voice input for password operations in multi-functional peripherals (MFPs) poses a security risk due to the potential for password leakage, and existing masking solutions continuously output masking signals for all voice inputs, making normal conversations difficult and uncomfortable for nearby individuals.
Innovation Solution
An image forming apparatus with multiple hardware processors that outputs guidance information, receives voice inputs, sets functions, and selectively outputs masking signals only during sensitive operations, such as password input, based on predefined confidentiality flags to enhance security and user comfort.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a masking signal is continuously output from start of voice input to end of voice input, then security is enhanced by masking password input, but normal conversation becomes difficult and people around feel uncomfortable
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies masking signal output selectively based on the type of voice input being processed. Confidential information such as passwords triggers masking signal output, while non-confidential information does not. This local differentiation resolves the contradiction by providing security only where needed rather than continuously, maintaining user comfort in normal conversation scenarios.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically adjusts whether to output masking signals based on real-time analysis of the voice input content. The masking signal output is not static but changes according to the confidentiality level of the current input, enabling the system to adapt between security-enhancing mode and normal conversation mode seamlessly.
2Ease of operation
If voice input is used for password input, then operation convenience is improved, but password leakage risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system takes preliminary anti-action by detecting when confidential information is being input and proactively outputting masking signals before the password can be heard by others. This preventive measure counteracts the potential harm of password leakage while preserving the convenience of voice input operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The masking signal is applied locally to specific confidential inputs rather than all voice inputs. This selective application protects sensitive information like passwords while maintaining the natural flow and convenience of voice-based operation for non-sensitive commands.
Data Source
AI summary
An image forming apparatus includes: a first hardware processor that outputs guidance information for setting a predetermined function to a user; a second hardware processor that receives voice input from the user according to the guidance information; a third hardware processor that executes a process of setting the predetermined function according to the voice input received by the second hardware processor; and a fourth hardware processor that outputs a masking signal for masking voice from the user based on the guidance information.