Month/Year of Graduation

5-2026

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science (B.S.)

Department

Computer Science

First Advisor

Harvey Siy

Abstract

As messaging platforms become primary communication hubs within highly secure environments, they introduce significant vulnerabilities regarding file sharing with potential malicious content. This research, an honors extension of the Northrop Grumman sponsored Capstone project ‘LockTalk’, evaluates the technical abilities of automated file scanning methods within messaging platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or our own developed platform LockTalk. This paper investigates a variety of scanning methods and their applications, with particular emphasis on comparing the qualities of static scanning, used in signature-based detection, and dynamic scanning with heuristics. Furthermore, this paper investigates the differences and advantages of both End-to-End Encryption (E2EE), which requires the use of Client-Side Scanning (CSS), as well as Managed Server-Side Scanning which allows for more server-side power but comes with unique privacy concerns. Through a look at the current research in these areas, as well as a look into the future of file scanning on messaging platforms in areas like AI and post-quantum concerns, this research proposes which implementation framework works best in scenarios and applications like LockTalk. The findings in this paper offer a look into the present and future landscape of file scanning that can evolve with the continuously changing digital threats.

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