FIGURE 12 introduces aspects of the reconstitution
file 0270. Where normal security is desired, there is one reconstitution file 0270 to
match the one cascade 0360 associated with single pass fragmentation 0361. If multiple
pass cascaded fragmentation 0362 is selected, there is one reconstitution file 0270 for
each cascade.
The type and purpose 1210 of a reconstitution file
0270 can be subdivided among three possibilities. These are master 1211, backup 1212,
and distribution 1213. A master ("M") 1211 reconstitution file 0270 is created each
time the user employs the system and method 0110 to privatize computer data; two to
seven such master 1211 reconstitution files 0270 are created if multiple pass cascading
fragmentation 0362 is involved. Backup ("B") 1212 and distribution ("D") 1213
reconstitution files 0270 are created by the support procedure to share access 0120 to
privacy protected archives 0261. Master 1211 and backup 1212 reconstitution files 0270
may be used to view hidden dispersion locations 0440, to run the support procedure to
share access 0120 and create additional reconstitution files 0270 for either backup
or distribution, and/or delete privacy protected archives 0261 that are posted to
Internet locations 0440. A reconstitution file 0270 marked "D" for distribution 1213
may be used only to reconstitute privatized data 0160, and to delete privacy protected
archives 0261 on local hard disk.
Secure handling precautions 1220 are in order for
reconstitution files 0270. These files are designed to be quite small in comparison to
the components of the counterpart privacy protected archive 0261. Without access to
the reconstitution file or files 0270, it is virtually impossible for anyone to precisely
reverse the process required to recoup the original data files 0220. By moving the
reconstitution files 0270 off line to other media, the user makes the related privacy
protected archive especially free from attack. At a minimum, it should be moved to an
anonymous alternative location. Of course, effective security must be supported by
prudent backup procedures. If the reconstitution file were lost and if the original
data files were not backed up, the content is lost forever.
The reconstitution file name 1230 follows the
earlier discussion under 0320, 0451, and 0452.
