WORM Storage Time Verification via Reference Clock

The patent introduces a security chip as an intermediary component between the RTC and the processor. The security chip securely stores the RTC's initial time value and uses it to verify subsequent time values from the RTC. This mediator prevents intruders from directly modifying the RTC time, as any modification would be detected when compared against the securely stored initial time in the security chip.

The patent implements a feedback mechanism where the processor periodically verifies the current RTC time against the securely stored initial time value in the security chip. When a data operation request is received, the system checks whether the RTC time has been modified by comparing it with the initial time. If modification is detected, the system refuses to execute the operation, providing feedback that prevents malicious file attribute changes while allowing legitimate operations within the protection period.

The patent segments the timekeeping system into two distinct functional components: the RTC that generates time values and the security chip that securely stores the initial time value for verification purposes. This segmentation allows the system to maintain low overall complexity while adding dedicated security functionality. The RTC continues its simple timekeeping role, while the security chip handles the secure storage and verification, creating a modular architecture that improves reliability without significantly increasing complexity.