Sector
Information Security, Identity and Access Management
Challenge
A user’s information is scattered across numerous different platforms, leading to difficulty locating items, inconsistent record-keeping, greater security risks, and inefficiencies in finding what they need when they need it.
My Role
Market Research, Wireframing/Prototyping (Lead), Information Architecture
Project Time
3 months (Feb - May 2024)
Designed for maximum security, LockBox is designed to safely store sensitive information like passwords, documents, photos/videos, and financial accounts in one centralized location. Through this comprehensive solution, users can efficiently access their sensitive data without searching multiple places, while benefiting from reliable backup capabilities for documents and personal information.
Advanced security measures protect all stored data through two-factor authentication, password generation, strength verification, and auto-lock/self-destruct functionality. With these robust safeguards in place, users can confidently manage their sensitive information without fear of data breaches or theft.
Security-conscious individuals, organizations, and investors will find value in this comprehensive solution, whether for personal use, partnership opportunities, or implementation recommendations.
Smart organization sets LockBox apart through its intuitive categorization system, enabling quick information retrieval without wading through disorganized files. Secure sharing capabilities allow trusted contacts to exchange information while maintaining strict security protocols, making LockBox the ideal protected environment for managing all types of personal information—from documents and media to passwords and beyond.
MARKET RESEARCH
LockBox's scope covers a wide range of personal resources: passwords, documents, photos/videos, and financial information. Users can securely store sensitive data in our app using labels and categories for easy identification. While the app handles all types of personal information that users want to protect, it specifically focuses on larger documents and security-critical details rather than general notes.
The app provides efficient management of sensitive information through advanced encryption, including multi-factor authentication and regular security updates to address potential risks. We maintain a clear focus on personal privacy and security, avoiding unnecessary features that could compromise these priorities. While this means we may not serve organizations that require features beyond our core security and document protection capabilities, this deliberate scope allows us to deliver exceptional security and a focused user experience.
LockBox offers three plan types: individual, group, and business. Individual plans provide exclusive access to a single user. Group and business plans allow sharing access with trusted users for specific or general information. While individual and group plans share most features, group plans add sharing capabilities and selective access control. The business plan includes additional features such as role-based hierarchies (like "HR Team" and "Accounting"), custom branding with company logos, and Single Sign-On (SSO) integration for existing credentials.
LockBox is the secure vault for anyone—from solo users to families and growing businesses—who need to protect passwords, documents, photos, and financial data.
Gary, a 20‑year‑old day trader, relies on the Individual plan to encrypt his trading passwords, tax forms, screenshots, and account numbers, so he can focus on the markets without worrying about breaches. Sarah, a 28‑year‑old administrative assistant, stores her resume, driver’s license, and work permit in one intuitive vault, giving her instant access whenever she applies for a new job.
The Suns family uses a Family plan with shared and private folders—parents manage insurance and medical records while their adult and teen children pull diplomas, transcripts, and college‑prep materials on demand. And Lisa, a 35‑year‑old startup founder, secures client contracts, NDAs, and shared credentials under a Team plan with granular permissions and audit trails. No matter the use case, LockBox keeps everything organized, accessible, and rock‑solid secure.
The password management and secure storage marketplace currently features several established solutions. Well-respected password managers like Keeper, Norton, and Bitwarden offer functionality similar to Apple Keychain but with enhanced security features. These apps have also expanded beyond password storage. For secure file storage, services like Dropbox provide multi-layered security for files, documents, and photos, while Google Drive offers free storage for various file types, though with less robust security measures.
Our aim is to unite the best features of these services into a single solution. Instead of juggling multiple apps to protect different types of sensitive information, users get a comprehensive secure vault. We address limitations of existing solutions through an intuitive interface, built-in password generation, powerful search functionality, and expanded storage capacity. Our mission is to deliver a unique security solution that simplifies information protection. We stay current with security technology advances and incorporate user feedback to enhance features.
How will our app be populated?
Which method will the data come from?
Existing Interactions?
LockBox would interact with the following information systems:
LockBox provides numerous benefits for individuals and organizations. Users can securely store and search for sensitive information without worrying about losing their data, leading to peace of mind and increased productivity. Organizations benefit from enhanced data security as users are less likely to resort to insecure storage methods. By encouraging proper cybersecurity practices, LockBox makes a broader impact on digital security.
However, the app faces important risks that must be considered. The primary concern is the possibility of a data breach—if the app's security is compromised, exposed sensitive information could lead to financial loss and identity theft. As LockBox grows in popularity, it may become an attractive target for cybercriminals. Another significant risk is potential data loss due to software malfunction, which could affect critical information like passwords and documents. These risks underscore the importance of maintaining up-to-date security measures.
LockBox must comply with several privacy laws and regulations. HIPAA compliance is essential since users may store patient health information in the app. The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is also relevant, as it establishes strict standards for personal data protection and access—particularly important for international users.
U.S. state laws add another layer of compliance requirements. Maryland's Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA) requires protecting consumers' personal identifying information and promptly notifying them of any security breaches. The California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) grants consumers specific rights: knowing what personal information businesses collect, requesting data deletion, refusing the sale of their information, and protection against privacy rights discrimination. In essence, LockBox must comply with all applicable information privacy laws and regulations.
PROTOTYPING
Before users even reach the LockBox home screen, they are met with a secure authentication process. Depending on their device capabilities, users can unlock the app using Face ID, Touch ID, or a manually entered password. This pre-access checkpoint ensures that only authorized individuals gain entry, reinforcing LockBox’s commitment to data protection from the very first tap.
Once inside the app, users land on the intuitive home screen. Here, functionality meets simplicity. At the top of the interface is a password generator, providing users with strong, secure passwords ready for use. Users can also upload new passwords or documents with ease. A “Recently Viewed” section conveniently displays content accessed within the past seven days, ensuring quick retrieval. Navigating to the profile tab allows users to manage account details, including updating or deleting their passcode, managing account preferences, and securely deleting their entire account if needed.
The search screen is designed for efficiency. Users can swiftly locate saved passwords or documents through a straightforward keyword search.
To further refine results, the filter screen offers customizable options, such as document type, access date, file size, and specific keywords. These filters dynamically update the search results, making it easy for users to pinpoint exactly what they need. A single tap resets all filters, returning the results to their original state.
Here's the typed input with smart autocomplete suggestions. As users type, LockBox intelligently narrows down the results. For example, searching “umd” will bring up various entries—but adding “.edu” refines the list to only those that match the full term, such as a specific “umd.edu” password.
Once a user selects an item from the search results, they must verify their identity again using Face ID, Touch ID, or a password. This secondary authentication step ensures that even after unlocking the app, sensitive information remains protected.
First, we'll look into the user's umd.edu password since they are a current student at the University of Maryland, College Park. When viewing password details, users are presented with a structured display: the website or URL, associated username, and the password itself (which remains hidden until tapped). Users can also add notes, receive security recommendations—such as suggestions for password updates or alerts for potential breaches—and delete items securely.
Now onto the other result that came up in our search, "UMD Student ID". The User would need this if they are trying to verify they attend the university in obtaining students discounts on services such as Spotify. The layout for document details is similar. After verification, users can view their document, review or add notes, and manage document access permissions.
INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
Understanding LockBox’s backend starts with metadata schemas, which help organize and define the structure of data stored in the app. Our first focus is on Summary Item Type Tables, which provide a clear overview of the various item types.
Understanding LockBox’s backend starts with metadata schemas, which help organize and define the structure of data stored in the app. Our first focus is on Summary Item Type Tables, which provide a clear overview of the various item types.
Item Type: Upload
Each upload contains key metadata fields:
This structure ensures every upload is easy to find, manage, and secure.
WRAPPING UP
LockBox is more than just an app—it’s a powerful security tool designed to safeguard your most sensitive digital assets. With features like advanced encryption, customizable access controls, secure storage, and a user-friendly interface, LockBox delivers a seamless experience without compromising on security.
Key Highlights:
Whether you're a student managing academic files, a professional handling confidential documents, or simply someone who values digital security, LockBox is your trusted partner in protecting what matters most.
Thank you for considering LockBox. Stay safe, and stay secure.