Patent ID: 7099478
Filing Date: 2006-08-29
Classification: G06F

Abstract:
1. A security system for controlling access to encrypted information, comprising: a hardware device for storing at least one decryption key for use in decrypting an encrypted item of information, the decryption key being associated with a security code which is used by the hardware device to determine whether it is authorized to send encrypted copies of the decryption key to others, wherein if the hardware device is authorized to send an encrypted copy of the decryption key, it encrypts the decryption key and propagates the encrypted copy of the decryption key, wherein each time the hardware device propagates a decryption key, it includes as part of the decryption key an identifier indicating the identity of a sender's key, and wherein a user appends a control word against their identity in the decryption key to instruct the hardware device to initiate a message to them or an agent informing them of the propagation of the key and giving information concerning that propagation.