Two-way communication and authentication system via QR and NFC technology with temporary token, anonymity and access control mechanism
A server-based system with temporary tokens and physical reactivation addresses the limitations of existing lost and found systems by enabling anonymous two-way communication and real-time ownership control, enhancing security and usability.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- DE202025003124
- Authority / Receiving Office
- DE · DE
- Patent Type
- Utility models
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-10-17
- Publication Date
- 2025-12-24
- Estimated Expiration
- 2035-10-31
AI Technical Summary
Existing lost and found systems lack two-way anonymous communication, require personal data disclosure, and do not utilize temporary tokens or physical reactivation mechanisms, leading to potential misuse and lack of real-time ownership control.
A server-based system generates unique IDs for physical codes, enabling two-way communication through temporary session tokens that expire or lock automatically, requiring physical rescan for reactivation, ensuring anonymity and real-time support.
Provides complete anonymity, protection against misuse, and real-time ownership control through temporary tokens and physical reactivation, enhancing security and usability.
Smart Images
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Abstract
Description
1. Title of the invention
[0001] LOST CODE - Two-way communication and authentication system via QR and NFC technology with temporary token, anonymity and access control mechanism. 2. Technical field
[0002] The invention relates to a system and method for secure, anonymous two-way communication between a code holder and a third party using a physical QR or NFC code. The system is particularly suitable for applications such as property protection, product authentication, support communication, emergency contacts, and barrier-free interaction. 3. State of the art
[0003] Well-known systems like lost and found tags (e.g., SeQRContact, FoundMe, ReturnMe) only allow one-way communication from the finder to the owner, requiring the finder to provide personal information such as an email address or phone number. The return channel is via email or persistent chat IDs. These systems are not anonymous, do not use temporary tokens, and are not physically restricted in their access. 4. Object of the invention
[0004] The task is to provide an anonymous communication system that: - Enables two-way communication without disclosing personal data, - can only be activated by physically scanning the original code, - Sessions are time-limited (TTL) and automatically terminated, - completely disconnects access upon expiry or blocking and only reactivates it by rescanning, - and offers optional additional features for B2B, support and accessibility applications. 5. Solution to the task
[0005] The solution comprises a server-based system that assigns a unique ID to each physical code object (e.g., card, label, product tag). Scanning the object generates a temporary session (session token) through which messages can be sent. The token has a defined lifespan (e.g., 24 hours). After expiration or blocking by the owner, the channel is deleted. Re-establishing communication is only possible by physically scanning the code again. 6. Advantages of the invention - Complete anonymity without email or phone number, - Protection against misuse through token expiration and locking logic, - Real-time support and ownership control, - Integration of audio or location data, - Expandability to B2B and inclusion applications. 7. Examples of Implementation
[0006] A user possesses a physical card with a QR and NFC code. When scanned, it opens a web interface through which a message can be sent. The owner can reply until the session ends automatically. After that, a new scan is required. Optionally, the code can be combined with audio, location, or support functions. 8. Differentiation from the state of the art
[0007] Unlike well-known lost and found systems that use personal data or permanent chat IDs, LOST CODE is based on anonymous, temporary tokens generated exclusively through physical scanning. No other service combines QR + NFC, temporary tokens with TTL, server-side access control, mandatory rescan upon expiration / blocking, and complete data anonymity. Drawings (description) Fig. 1: System architecture: QR / NFC code → Smartphone → LOST CODE Server (token and message management) → Receiver. Fig. 2: Two-way communication process: Scan → Token creation → Message → Response → Token deletion. Fig. 3: Physical carrier medium: Card / label with QR and integrated NFC tag. Fig. 4: Authentication and security logic: validation, TTL, locking, token deletion.
[0008] The schematic drawings ( Fig. 1-4) are included separately in the file 'DPMA_Anlage3_Zeichnungen_LOST_CODE.pdf'.
Claims
[1] Two-way communication system via QR and / or NFC code, comprising: - a unique identifier stored in a central database, - a server-side generated temporary session token with a predefined lifespan (TTL), - a communication interface for transmitting messages between a code holder and a scanner. [2] System according to claim 1, characterized by , that the session token is automatically deleted after the TTL expires or after being blocked by the owner. [3] System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein messages may include text, audio or location information. [4] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein renewed contact is only possible after re-scanning the QR or NFC code. [5] System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the owner can receive, reply to, block or release messages. [6] System according to one of the preceding claims, wherein no personal data is exchanged between the parties. [7] System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein QR and NFC elements are used in parallel to ensure redundancy and higher compatibility. [8] System according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the system can be integrated into B2B, support or proof of ownership applications. [9] System according to one of the preceding claims, with optional barrier-free communication mode (tactile map, Braille, audio feedback).