Patent ID: 8381287
Filing Date: 2013-02-19
Classification: G06F,H04L

Abstract:
1. A computer-based method for providing hierarchal access to information of a first user, the information is encrypted and stored within one or more computer readable memories, an account identifier for the first user and a portion of the information of the first user are stored on a portable, computer readable device associated with the first user, said method comprising: receiving the account identifier of the first user at a central server, the account identifier of the first user transmitted to the central server via a user computer, the account identifier of the first user identifying the first user associated with the portable, computer readable device; verifying the account identifier of the first user at the central server; receiving a password of a second user requesting access to the encrypted information of the first user, the password entered at the user computer; confirming the password at the central server; determining a level of access for the second user by consulting a security policy look-up table comprising a predetermined hierarchy of rights assigned to a plurality of users, the level of access defining access policies for each of the plurality of users to the stored, encrypted information within the computer readable medium; sending an electronic key from the central server to the user computer, the electronic key defining the level of access for the second user to the stored, encrypted information within the computer readable medium; and utilizing the electronic key to unlock the stored, encrypted information based on the determined level of access of the second user.