Physically modifying a data storage device to disable access to secure data and repurpose the data storage device

摘要

A data storage device is disclosed comprising a non-volatile memory and control circuitry operable to evaluate a physical feature of the data storage device, wherein the physical feature is physically alterable by a user. When the physical feature is in a first state, host access to first secure data stored in the non-volatile memory is enabled, and when the physical feature is in a second state, the host access to the first secure data is disabled and host access to second data stored in the non-volatile memory is enabled.

主权项

1. A data storage device comprising:
a printed circuit board including a plurality of mounted chips each comprising internal circuitry; a non-volatile memory; and control circuitry operable to:
evaluate a physical feature of one of the chips, wherein the physical feature is physically alterable by a user;when the physical feature is in a first state. enable host access to first secure data stored in the non-volatile memory; andwhen the physical feature is in a second state, disable the host access to the first secure data and enable host access to second data stored in the non-volatile memory,wherein the physical feature comprises a modifiable package of one of the chips, and modifying the package of one of the chips destroys at least part of the internal circuitry of the chip.