Information infrastructure management data processing tools for processing data flow with distribution controls

What is this patent about?

’639 is related to the field of distributed computing and information infrastructure management, specifically focusing on the automated organization, sanitization, and protection of data. It addresses the risks associated with unstructured and semi-structured data—such as emails and word processing documents—which often contain sensitive intellectual property or private information that is difficult to track compared to structured databases. The invention provides a framework for identifying these critical data elements and managing their lifecycle through configurable filtering and segmented storage.

The underlying idea behind ’639 is to transform a linear, vulnerable data stream into a formless, granular architecture by separating high-value content from its original context. Instead of relying on traditional perimeter defenses like firewalls, the system deconstructs documents into their atomic parts—words, images, or data objects—and disperses them across multiple distributed stores. By breaking the context of the original file and replacing sensitive elements with placeholders, the invention ensures that an intruder gaining access to one part of the system finds only fragmented, non-sensical information.

The claims of ’639 focus on a multi-stage method for extracting and classifying data throughput based on sensitivity levels and taxonomic categories. The independent claims cover the identification of sensitive or select content using a plurality of filters, followed by the extraction of this content into specific data stores corresponding to its sensitivity level. A key aspect of the claims is the application of classification tags to the extracted data, which then drive automated downstream processes such as data mining, supplemental searches, and structured data transfers to predetermined storage locations.

In practice, the system functions as a dynamic gatekeeper that sanitizes data inputs by separating sensitive content from remainder data to create a 'sanitized' version of the original file. This remainder data is then subjected to inference filtering, which uses content, contextual, and taxonomic analysis to ensure that no sensitive information can be reconstructed or deduced by unauthorized users. The implementation allows for a 'rolling' exposure of data, where layers of the original document are only reassembled and displayed to a user who provides the specific security clearances required for each granular piece.

This approach differs from prior solutions by moving away from static classification labels that can be manipulated by attackers. Instead, it employs granular data control to physically and logically isolate information, making the network 'formless' and significantly harder to target. While traditional encryption protects a whole file, this invention allows for the independent management of data segments, enabling an enterprise to share unclassified portions of a document while keeping the strategic 'dots' hidden in vaulted, distributed repositories until they are needed for authorized reconstruction.