Watermark Access Control System for Digital Content Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing digital file transmission methods lack robust security measures to ensure that only intended recipients can access and manipulate digital content, particularly in environments where large files are exchanged, such as in multimedia production, and current watermarking techniques do not effectively track recipient information.
Innovation Solution
A method that encrypts digital content and associates it with a security attribute containing watermarking criteria, which is only decrypted if client-side watermarking is actively provided on the receiving computer, ensuring that access is restricted to authorized users and devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of information
If traditional watermarking techniques are used to track content copies, then source identification is improved, but recipient-specific security control deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The watermarking system is segmented into multiple independent components: source-based watermarks embedded in the content and device-based watermarks generated by the receiving system. This segmentation allows each component to fulfill its specific function - source identification and recipient tracking respectively - without compromising either capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nested watermarking where a source-based watermark is embedded within the content, and a device-based watermark is subsequently embedded by the receiving system. The outer device-based watermark contains recipient identification information while the inner source-based watermark preserves source tracking capability, creating a layered security structure.
2Reliability
If proxy video files with watermarks are used for distribution, then security against pilfering is improved, but ease of dissemination deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The receiving system automatically generates and embeds device-based watermarks without requiring manual intervention from the content provider. This self-service mechanism maintains security while simplifying distribution, as the watermarking process is automated and integrated into the content reception and playback system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary watermarking by embedding device-based watermarks during the content reception phase, before any potential pilfering occurs. This preliminary security measure is seamlessly integrated into the normal content distribution workflow, maintaining ease of dissemination while establishing security controls in advance.
3Reliability
If continuous watermark verification is implemented, then access control security is improved, but system complexity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements continuous feedback loops where the watermark verification module constantly monitors for the presence and integrity of device-based watermarks during content playback. This automated feedback mechanism maintains high security by immediately detecting and responding to watermark removal attempts without requiring complex manual verification procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces complex mechanical or manual verification systems with software-based watermark detection and validation algorithms. The receiving system uses digital signal processing techniques to automatically verify watermarks, substituting physical verification mechanisms with computationally efficient digital methods that reduce overall system complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
A digital file is associated with a security attribute related to watermarking criteria. The digital file content is encrypted, and may not be decrypted by a receiving computer unless the watermarking criteria is met. The receiving computer may decrypt only the encrypted portion of the security attribute unless the watermarking criteria are continuously met at the receiving computer. Improved security and reduction of pirating of the digital content is therefore provided.