Authentication Token Mediator for Secure External Access
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for authenticating and authorizing external entities in data security systems pose security risks by requiring users to reveal sensitive information, such as usernames and passwords, which can compromise system security.
Innovation Solution
A method for authenticating and authorizing external entities in a multi-tenant on-demand database system involves generating a unique key and security information for remote access, allowing conditional data access without exposing users' login credentials, and ensuring secure data transfer through secure channels.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users reveal credentials (usernames and passwords) to external entities for authentication, then access authorization is achieved, but security risks increase due to exposure of sensitive information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a security token as an intermediary element between the user and the external entity. Instead of directly revealing credentials, the user provides a security token that mediates the authentication process. The system validates this token against stored credential information, allowing authorization without direct credential exposure to external entities.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the sensitive credential verification logic from the external entity and relocates it within the secure system boundary. By moving the authentication decision-making process inside the system, only non-sensitive tokens need to be exchanged externally, while the actual credential validation remains protected and isolated from external access.
2Device complexity
If traditional authentication methods are used, then implementation simplicity is maintained, but data security is compromised due to credential exposure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary action by pre-storing hashed credential information and security token mappings in the system database before external entities need access. This advance preparation allows the system to validate external entities using pre-computed token-credential associations rather than requiring complex real-time verification protocols, maintaining simplicity while enhancing security.
Data Source
AI summary
In accordance with embodiments, there are provided mechanisms and methods for authenticating and authorizing an external entity. These mechanisms and methods for authenticating and authorizing an external entity can enable improved data security, more efficient data transfer, improved data access channels, etc.