System and Method for Ensuring Privacy in Online Document Sharing

Abstract

There is on-going demand for increased security and privacy for digitally shared documents and data. Traditional methods include document password protection or use of stand-alone applications. However, there remains a lack of comprehensive control over document access and privacy. For example, self-destructing photos may be viewed by more than the intended recipient if multiple viewers are looking at the screen or if the receiver takes a screenshot with the device itself or another imaging device.

Researchers at FAU have developed a system which provides a method to control how and when shared documents are displayed. The system leverages multiple methods of receiver identification to ensure the image is only seen by the intended audience. This includes security access methods such as facial recognition, biometrics, location identification through GPS along with both audio identification and situational awareness of the receiver's viewing environment. Additionally, the disclosed technology recognizes threats to the privacy, using methods such as known object identification, should another camera or device be set up to capture the viewing screen image.

FAU is seeking partners to advance this technology into the marketplace through licensing or development partnerships.

Benefit

Market Application