
Advanced hardware data vault

Advanced hardware data vault
Midbar is an advanced hardware data vault designed to maximize the cost of unauthorized access to stored data. Its primary function is to provide a secure environment for encrypting and decrypting sensitive information using a combination of multiple encryption algorithms. The system operates on bare-metal embedded hardware, specifically utilizing an STM32F401CCU6 microcontroller as its core, with an Arduino Uno serving as an RFID reader bridge and a random number generator. This architecture eliminates the need for an operating system or background software, reducing the attack surface and potential software vulnerabilities. The main features of Midbar include superencryption, tampering detection, hardware isolation, and layered authentication. Every bit of data stored on the device is encrypted using a combination of 3DES, AES-256, Blowfish, and Serpent encryption algorithms. This layered approach ensures that even if one algorithm becomes compromised, the data remains protected by the remaining ones. Tampering detection is implemented through HMAC-SHA256, which generates a unique verification tag for each record to validate its integrity upon decryption. Some versions of Midbar require four RFID cards in addition to a master password for authentication, further increasing the difficulty of unauthorized access. Typical use cases for Midbar involve storing and retrieving sensitive data that requires a high level of security, such as cryptographic keys, personal credentials, or confidential documents. The workflow involves encrypting data on the device and decrypting it on compatible hardware, such as the Teensy 4.1-based Midbar V3.1, and vice versa. The device is designed for users who need a cost effective, open source security tool that prioritizes physical and logical protection against data breaches. Technical requirements include the STM32F401CCU6 MCU with a 32-bit ARM Cortex-M4 core, two independent random number generators for secure encryption, and an Arduino Uno for RFID communication. The system is open source, allowing users to inspect and modify the code as needed. Midbar is intended for developers, security researchers, and individuals seeking a hardware based solution for data protection without reliance on cloud services or complex software stacks.