Virtual VRAM Segmentation for Secure Remote Display
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for secure password input via virtual keyboards are vulnerable to security breaches when desktop screens are shared between computers, as key presses can be viewed on the local computer, compromising security.
Innovation Solution
An information processing apparatus and method that uses a virtual VRAM to differentiate and securely transmit screen data, preventing the display of security information on either the local or external display by using a dummy screen with a message indicating the computer is in use, thereby masking the actual input.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If the desktop screen is displayed on an external computer for remote access, then ease of operation is improved, but security is worsened because key presses on the virtual keyboard can be viewed on the local computer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the display system into two independent display buffers: a first display buffer for normal desktop content and a second display buffer for security-sensitive content such as password input. This segmentation allows the system to control what is transmitted to the external display versus what remains visible only locally, resolving the contradiction by enabling remote access while protecting sensitive operations from being observed on the external screen.
2Ease of operation
If a virtual keyboard is used for password input, then ease of operation is improved for users without physical keyboards, but security is worsened because the selected keys are highlighted and visible on the display
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the display output by directing security-sensitive content including virtual keyboard interactions to a separate second display buffer that is not transmitted to the external display. This allows users to benefit from the ease of virtual keyboard operation while preventing the highlighted key selections from being visible on the external screen, thus maintaining password security.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a display control mechanism that acts as an intermediary between the virtual keyboard input and the external display output. This intermediary selectively prevents security-related display content from being transmitted to the external display, thereby mediating between the user's need for easy character entry and the requirement for password security.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the desktop screen is shared between computers, then adaptability is improved for remote collaboration, but security is worsened because sensitive information can be viewed on either computer
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the display content into transmissible and non-transmissible portions using separate display buffers. The first display buffer contains general desktop content that can be safely shared, while the second display buffer contains security-sensitive content that remains local-only. This segmentation enables adaptability for remote collaboration while maintaining security by preventing sensitive information from being transmitted to external displays.
Data Source
AI summary
An information processing apparatus which is capable of ensuring mutual security in cases where security information is displayed in a state in which an image displayed on a display is open to the outside. A display displays an operation screen of the apparatus. An input section receives an operation instruction to the apparatus, and a network interface receives an operation instruction to the apparatus from an external device. A control section determines whether an instruction for displaying an operation screen containing security information is received from the input section or via the network interface. When determining that the instruction is received via the network interface, the control unit cause screen data for displaying the operation screen to be transmitted to the external device, and the operation screen containing the security information to be prevented from being displayed on the display.