초록 ▼

A secure computer controlling access to data storage devices via a card reader. A microprocessor-controlled card reader interface logically connected to the card reader and the central processing unit (CPU) of the computer reads and writes information from and to a card placed in the card reader and

A secure computer controlling access to data storage devices via a card reader. A microprocessor-controlled card reader interface logically connected to the card reader and the central processing unit (CPU) of the computer reads and writes information from and to a card placed in the card reader and performs additional functions in response to commands received from the CPU. The card reader interface includes an encryption engine for encrypting data in a data storage device and a boot ROM containing verification program code executed during an initialization procedure. The verification program verifies that a valid user card has been placed in the card reader, reads one or more questions from the user card, asks the questions of the user and verifies the answers against the contents of the card. If authorization is verified, the card reader interface permits the user to access the encrypted data. Otherwise the user is denied access to the data by one or more of the following methods: freezing the system bus, and requiring the user to reset the computer and re-enter the verification program; logically destroying the data in the data storage devices; and physically destroying the data storage devices.

대표청구항 ▼

A method of operating a computer having a central processing unit, the central processing unit executing a boot program to initialize the computer, the method comprising the steps of: a) prior to completion of the boot program, acquiring control of the central processing unit; b) loading a verificat

A method of operating a computer having a central processing unit, the central processing unit executing a boot program to initialize the computer, the method comprising the steps of: a) prior to completion of the boot program, acquiring control of the central processing unit; b) loading a verification program; c) upon attempted access by a user, verifying that the user is authorized using the verification program; and d) controlling access to the computer by monitoring system calls.