Systems and methods for tracking electronic files in computer networks using electronic signatures
US8826026B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 20, 2006 |
| Grant date | Sep 2, 2014 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 12, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L63/123
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Systems and methods are provided for tracking electronic files in computer networks using electronic signatures. A signature program installed on a network node inserts an electronic signature into certain encoded media files when they are transferred to other network users. Each network user is issued a unique electronic signature based on public key infrastructure. A signature repository supplies the recipient signature to the signature program prior to transferring a file. The sender and recipient signatures are appended to a portion of the media file, preferably the lower order bits to minimize perceptible file degradation. A transaction record is thereby written into the file and a copy of the transfer information is stored centrally at the repository, thereby creating a traceable record of a file's movement.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.