Protection of metadata in XML format

The article discusses the protection of metadata presented in XML and related languages. At the same time data on the subject area are ordered using ontological methods. A three-component ontological model of the data protection system is proposed on the basis of ontological representations of domain data in terms of protected data and potential threats. A data classification template has been developed that allows you to detail the corresponding classes, enter specific data elements, and cut off unused classes or their subclasses. Based on ontological representations of protected data and actual threats, in accordance with the security policy, an ontological model of the protection tools implemented in the developed system is built. The languages for describing metadata are discussed. It is suggested to use the methods of obfuscation and text steganography to protect the XML document. An algorithm of the modified obfuscation method with random sampling of a part of the code is proposed. A block diagram of an algorithm suitable for the design of metadata protection facilities is constructed. Explanation of the decision to not use the XML document as a stegocontainer is made. Recommendations on the method and sequence of application of ontological metadata protection methods were developed. A description is also given of the specifics of the use of methods of obfuscation and text steganography.