Secure Access to Value Item Information via Security Signature
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for securing access to information associated with value items, such as machine-readable passports or smart cards, are insecure due to the ability to generate access codes from photocopies and inadequate protection of encrypted data without secure decryption keys.
Innovation Solution
A method that compares a security signature generated by scanning unique security features on the item with a stored profile, allowing access only if the signatures match, using a scanner with a radiating stimulus and sensor to produce and sense electromagnetic radiation, and processing the data to create a unique digital representation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a bar code is used to provide access to stored data, then access is enabled, but security is compromised because the code can be generated from photocopies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces optical/mechanical bar code reading with electromagnetic radiation detection. The scanner uses electromagnetic radiation (e.g., laser) to read security features and generate security signatures, making it impossible to copy from photocopies since the electromagnetic interaction with the physical document cannot be replicated.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the detection parameter from optical reflection (bar codes) to electromagnetic radiation interaction with security features. By detecting physical characteristics through electromagnetic radiation and creating unique security signatures based on these parameters, the system ensures that only the actual document can be authenticated, not copies.
2Reliability
If data encryption techniques are used to protect secure data, then data protection is improved, but the system becomes vulnerable when decryption keys are not adequately secured
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary authentication by scanning security features and generating security signatures before accessing any encrypted data. The stored profile containing the security signature is verified in advance, ensuring that only authenticated users can proceed to access encrypted information, thereby eliminating the need for complex key security management.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces security signatures and stored profiles as intermediary authentication mechanisms between the user and the encrypted data. Instead of directly managing encryption keys, the system uses these intermediary security signatures to verify identity and authorize access, simplifying the overall security architecture.
3Reliability
If a scanner with radiating stimulus and sensor is used to generate security signatures, then security is enhanced, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent makes the scanner system multi-functional by using the same electromagnetic radiation-based scanning mechanism for multiple purposes: reading security features, generating security signatures, and verifying document authenticity. This universal approach consolidates what would otherwise require separate systems into a single integrated scanner.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances security by ensuring that only authentic items can access associated information, preventing unauthorized access and maintaining privacy, even when encryption is not adequately secured.
Implementation Method 1
A scanner is used to scan a value item to produce a security signature. The scanner includes a radiating stimulus and a sensor.
Implementation Method 2
The scanner includes a radiating stimulus and a sensor. The sensor senses the stimulus to produce a security signature.
Data Source
AI summary
Privacy of information is protected by a method of securing access to information associated with a value item, the method including comparing a security signature and a stored profile, and permitting access to the information associated with the value item if the security signature matches the stored profile. The value item may be a machine readable document or other item of high value. The associated information may be stored in an electronic storage medium attached to the value item, or may be stored in an external database, or both. Permitting access to the associated information may include generating an access code unique to the associated information and to the value item.