Using timestamps to prevent data tampering

Abstract

Timestamps are used to prevent data tampering. A trusted data generator generates a concatenated data object including a data object and metadata, which includes a location indication, a timestamp, and, depending on the type of encryption, an integrity value. The trusted timestamp generator encrypts the concatenated data object, stores the encrypted concatenated data object (e.g., in untrusted storage) in accordance with a location indicated by the location indication, and protects the timestamp in trusted storage (e.g., by protecting at least the root timestamp). A trusted data validator extracts the data object and metadata from the decrypted concatenated data object and validates the data object by comparing the storage location to the extracted location indication, the protected timestamp to the extracted timestamp, and a calculated integrity value to the extracted integrity value. Timestamps may be validated without calculations and with tolerances, supporting performance customization/security optimization.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.