Secure Handwritten Signature Capture Using Hash Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing biometric-electronic signature systems face challenges in securely integrating handwritten signatures from external individuals into electronic workflows without media breaches, as the separation between signature capture devices and computers can lead to manipulation risks due to inadequate display capabilities and security during data transfer.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that utilize a signature capture apparatus connected to a computer apparatus to securely capture and encrypt handwritten signatures and biometric data, generating hash sums for verification and encryption, ensuring the integrity of the electronic document and signature during transfer, even when the capture device lacks a suitable display for the document.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a signature capture apparatus is separated from the computer apparatus to enable independent signature capture, then the ease of operation and mobility are improved, but the security and reliability of data transfer deteriorates due to manipulation risks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a hash sum as an intermediary verification mechanism between the signature capture apparatus and computer apparatus. The hash sum acts as a mediator that ensures data integrity during transfer, allowing the separated apparatuses to maintain trust without direct physical connection. This resolves the contradiction by enabling operational independence while securing data transfer through cryptographic verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical connection dependencies with electronic cryptographic verification. Instead of relying on physical security of data transfer channels, the system uses hash sums and encryption to verify integrity electronically. This substitution allows the signature capture apparatus to be physically separated while maintaining reliability through computational verification rather than physical trust.
2Device complexity
If the signature capture apparatus lacks a suitable display for the document, then the device complexity and mobility are improved, but the ability to verify document identity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The hash sum serves as an intermediary verification mechanism that compensates for the absence of a display. Instead of visually verifying the document on the capture apparatus, the system uses cryptographic hash verification to ensure document identity. This allows the device to remain simple and mobile while maintaining reliability through alternative verification means.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a cryptographic copy (hash sum) of the document to verify identity rather than requiring the original visual display. The hash sum is a digital fingerprint that can be verified without displaying the entire document, allowing the capture apparatus to function without a suitable display while maintaining verification capability.
3Adaptability or versatility
If biometric data is transferred from the signature capture apparatus to the computer apparatus, then the functionality and completeness of the electronic signature are improved, but the security against manipulation deteriorates during transfer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces physical security measures with cryptographic protection for data transfer. Instead of relying on physical security of the transfer channel, the system uses encryption and hash verification to protect biometric data. This allows complete data transfer for functional versatility while eliminating manipulation risks through cryptographic security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by verifying data integrity before the harmful manipulation can occur. The hash sum is calculated and verified in advance, creating a preventive mechanism that detects any manipulation attempt before it can compromise the biometric data. This preliminary verification counteracts potential harmful factors during transfer.
Data Source
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AI summary
The present invention refers to a method and apparatus for electronically capturing a handwritten signature. The method comprises providing a computer apparatus having a first monitor configured to display an electronic document to be signed by a signer, and providing a signature capture apparatus having a second monitor. The signature capture apparatus being an individual unit separate from the computer apparatus but being connected to the computer apparatus, and being configured to electronically capture a handwritten signature of the signer and biometric data of the signer's signature. In the computer apparatus a first hash sum of the electronic document to be signed by the signer is being generated. The generated first hash sum and optionally the electronic document to be signed by the signer are transmitted to the signature capture apparatus. On the first monitor of the computer apparatus the electronic document to be signed by the signer and the generated first hash sum of the electronic document are displayed. On the second monitor of the signature capture apparatus the first hash sum transmitted from the computer apparatus is displayed. The handwritten signature of the signer made on the signature capture apparatus is captured and thereby generates signature data. The signature data and optionally the first hash sum in the signature capture apparatus are encrypted. The encrypted signature data and optionally the first hash sum are transmitted to to the computer apparatus. The encrypted signature data and optionally the first hash sum and the document signed are stored on a computer-readable medium.