a method and system for remotely maintaining data that is critical for license enforcement . the data consists of named values , is kept on a user &# 39 ; s trusted platform , and encrypted with the use of keys that are stored in two special registers . one register is exclusively readable by a trusted program , and holds a long - term secret . another register is exclusively writable , and changed often , so that old backups of the named values can only be read if suitable permissions are obtained . it uses a hierarchy of servers that act as vendors and have contractual obligations . vendor certificates specify that certain named values are stored on users &# 39 ; trusted platforms , but owned and controlled by servers .