Tamper-Respondent Secure Token for Encryption Key Distribution
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital communication systems face challenges in securely distributing encryption keys and other sensitive information, particularly in small computing devices where conventional cryptography methods are impractical due to key size and tampering concerns.
Innovation Solution
A tamper-respondent device is used for secure storage and communication of digital information, which includes a mechanism to detect unauthorized access and respond by disabling or destroying the secure information. The device can generate, store, and distribute digital encryption keys and uses gesture-based input interfaces for secure authorization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional public-key cryptography systems are used in small computing devices, then security is improved, but device complexity and ease of operation deteriorate due to large key sizes and cumbersome input interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the cryptographic key generation and storage functions from the main processing device into a separate secure element or hardware module. This allows the main device to use simpler operations while the dedicated secure component handles the complex key management, resolving the contradiction between security requirements and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary secure element that acts as a mediator between the user and the cryptographic system. This intermediary handles the complex key generation and protection operations, allowing users to interact with a simplified interface while maintaining high security standards through the intermediary's specialized functions.
2Ease of operation
If symmetric-key systems are used for secure communication, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to key distribution vulnerabilities and lack of end-to-end security
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the cryptographic system into multiple components: a secure element for key generation and storage, and a processing device for communication operations. This segmentation allows symmetric-key operations to be used for efficient communication while the segmented secure element maintains end-to-end security by protecting the master keys used to derive communication keys.
3Ease of operation
If private keys are generated on small computing devices, then ease of operation is improved, but reliability deteriorates due to insufficient protection against tampering and unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a nested structure where a secure element (the inner doll) is embedded within the larger processing device (the outer doll). The secure element contains the private keys and cryptographic operations, nested within the processing device that handles user interaction and communication. This nesting provides enhanced protection as the secure element acts as a protected enclave within the less secure main device.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by implementing tamper-detection mechanisms and self-destruct capabilities in the secure element before any unauthorized access can occur. If tampering is detected, the secure element automatically destroys the private keys, preventing unauthorized access. This preliminary protective action resolves the contradiction by ensuring security measures are in place before threats materialize.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method for secure generation and distribution of digital encryption keys is disclosed. The system may also be used to protect and distribute other types of secure information, including digital, audio, video, or analog data, or physical objects. The system may include a tamper-respondent secure token device, which may be configured to destroy or disable access to the secure information contained therein in response to attempts to physically or electronically breach the device. Outputs may be provided in a secure manner through various interfaces without using electricity (wires) or electromagnetic radiation. Inputs may be provided in a secure manner, including through the use of a gesture-based input interface. Destruction or disablement of the device and/or its secure contents may be provided upon detection of tamper attempts or upon input of a self-destruct command. Proof of the destruction or disablement of the device or its contents may be provided.