Abstract: The present invention discloses an apparatus and method for defining and enforcing rules of transition between two security domains, e.g., a transport domain and a persistent security domain. In turn, a border guard, e.g., a security device, is provided between these two domains that enforce rules for transition between the two security domains. This novel approach of defining a transport domain and a persistent security domain simplifies the classification of the digital content and its movement through the system. Namely, the border guard once established between the two systems can enforce DRM rules associated with how contents are moved between the two domains.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and method for providing a secured system time reference to a subscriber device, e.g., a set top box or a receiver. In one embodiment, the system time reference is provided in a secure system time message that is broadcasted to a plurality of subscriber devices. Each subscriber device has a security device or software application that is capable of determining whether the received system time reference is legitimate. If the system time reference is determined to be legitimate, a local time reference is synchronized with said received system time reference.

Abstract: According to one embodiment of the invention a system is utilized to leverage the security arrangement between a first and second device to establish a secure link between the first device and a third device. One embodiment of the invention is particularly suitable for loading security data on a set top box, such as that utilized in the cable television industry.

Abstract: The invention relates to ways for more efficiently receiving information with a set top box. In one embodiment, a method for distributing a message in a conditional access system is disclosed. In one step authorization information is received and stored by a conditional access receiver. An identifier is determined with the authorization information. It is determined if the conditional access receiver is authorized to receive the message associated with the identifier. Receipt of the message associated with the identifier may be blocked based, at least in part, upon the determining if the conditional access receiver is authorized.

Abstract: The invention relates to authenticating information sent to a set top box. In one embodiment, a process for distributing information to a plurality of conditional access receivers with a plurality of different signature checking capabilities is disclosed. In one step, a first signature is generated over the information and a second signature is generated over the information. The first and second signatures and the information are sent to the plurality of conditional access receivers.