Secure online system using encryption keys bound with an electronic footprint

摘要

An electronic footprint that uniquely identifies a computer desktop is used as part of an encryption key to encrypt digital goods, such that the digital goods may only be decrypted on a specific computer. This process is automated using a server containing a decryption service, which itself is encrypted. This system is the basis for an automated licensing system to prevent installation of digital media except on licensed computer desktops, a secure messaging system whose messages can only be decrypted on the computer the message was intended for, and to "harden" applications such that encrypted applications can run in non-secure environments without the fear of theft or tampering.