A dual authentication system and method for a courier network

Abstract

A dual authentication system for a courier network, comprises a label (1), at least two authentication device (2, 3), and a remote server (4) with a data storage unit and a plurality of processors. The label (1) is one time use label affixed on a product that is delivered via the courier network and the label (1) includes a scratch off layer (5) which conceals a security code (6). The two authentication devices (2, 3) includes a sender authentication device (2) that is accessed by a sender and a receiver authentication device (3) that is accessed by a receiver. The sender authentication device (2) is configured to prompt the sender to input a contact data of the receiver and the unique security code (6) that is concealed under the scratch off layer (5) of the label (1) along with an additional data.

Description

[0001] “A DUAL AUTHENTICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR A COURIER NETWORK”

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003] The present invention relates to an authentication system and method for a courier network. More particularly, the present invention relates to a dual authentication system and method for a courier network, ensuring secured delivery of the product by jettisoning the issue of counterfeiting or theft.

[0004] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0005] In the recent past, the volume of couriers has increased, leading to a rise in product counterfeiting. The number of people receiving counterfeit products through courier network has significantly escalated. The penetration of the internet and smartphone in rural areas has made even rural individuals tech-sawy.

[0006] Many ordinary individuals in these areas now order their items from e-commerce platforms, resulting in a higher volume of couriers since online orders are exclusively delivered through this medium. Numerous e-commerce platforms offer various services, making courier service indispensable. The success of e-commerce conglomerates relies solely on courier services due to their business model. Consequently, there have been instances where people did not receive the products they ordered or ended up with counterfeit items. Therefore, to ensure that people receive what they have ordered or authentic products, the implementation of suitable technology is necessary.

[0007] Several companies have adopted alternative methods to ensure product authenticity. One approach is the use of tags or labels that provide verification. Additionally, certain e-commerce platforms have made it mandatory for customers to open their delivered packages in the presence of the delivery personnel. This measure aims to guarantee the authenticity of the product and prevent the delivery of counterfeit items to customers.

[0008] In order to deter counterfeiting of courier products, it is imperative to employ robust labelling solutions that integrate advanced security feature and offer tamper-evident properties. Holographic labels have unique visual effects that are difficult to replicate, making them an excellent choice for preventing counterfeiting. They include 3D images, shifting colours, or other holographic features. Tamper evident labels are designed to show clear signs of tampering if someone tries to remove or alter them. They often leave behind a “void” or “tampered” message when peeled off, indicating that the package or label has been compromised. QR Code Tabels are there wherein QR codes are printed on labels and scanned to verify the authenticity of the product. Authentic information are stored in the QR code, and customers easily verify it using a smartphone or scanning device. UV Ink Tabels is also one, which adds an extra layer of security to prevent counterfeiting, in this labels printed with special ultraviolet ink is only seen under UV light, making them difficult to replicate.

[0009] Sequential numbering or barcoding has a unique serial number or barcode assigned to a product. This helps in tracking and authenticating individual products, making it harder for counterfeiters to replicate or clone the labels. The security labels with embedded features in which special labels have embedded security features such as micro printing, hidden images, or other covert markers that are challenging to reproduce without specialized equipment. Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) labels use electronic tags to store and transmit data. They are used to track and authenticate products throughout the supply chain, making counterfeiting more difficult. Incorporating custom design elements like logos, patterns, or watermarks specific to the brand make it complex for counterfeiter to replicate the labels accurately.

[0010] US7143290B1 introduce techniques, methods, and systems aimed at providing reliable and trusted delivery, handling, creation, and execution of digital items. It encompasses various forms of digital information, such as documents and executable code (e.g., Java applets), and emphasizes the role of a trusted third party electronic go-between. This go- between serves as a computer-controlled process that audits, validates, and directs electronic transactions, executions, and delivery. Additionally, it enables the secure archiving of digital information. However, there are some drawbacks to consider with regards to this invention, as the described techniques and methods may introduce complexity due to the intricate processes and systems involved. Implementing and managing such complexity may pose challenges and may require additional resources. The dependence on a trusted third party introduces an additional layer of reliance, potentially making this invention vulnerable to breaches or disruptions in the third party's infrastructure.

[0011] CN104281876A presents an electronic tag anti -counterfeiting technology. The disclosed method focuses on utilizing the chip hardware ID as a means of combating counterfeiting. One key characteristic of this approach is its ability to detect data integrity issues in an NFC (Near Field Communication) tag once it is dismantled. By verifying the integrity of the data in the NFC tag, it becomes possible to determine whether a product associated with the NFC tag has any quality issues. If the data in the NFC tag are found to be incomplete or cannot be verified, it indicates that the product related to the NFC tag may have a quality problem. Despite its innovative approach, it is important to consider certain limitations associated with this invention. First, the reliance on the chip hardware ID as the primary means of anti-counterfeiting may overlook other potential methods or techniques for ensuring product authenticity. Second, the effectiveness of this method may be dependent on the specific implementation and infrastructure supporting the NFC tag system.

[0012] Therefore, there is a need of system and method, which obviate the problems associated with the above-mentioned prior arts and which effectively prevent counterfeiting in the courier network by ensuring that the product that is being couriered is untampered.

[0013] OBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0014] The main object of the present invention is to provide a dual authentication system for a courier network, ensuring secured delivery of the product by jettisoning the issue of counterfeiting.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a tamper evident product label which enhances consumer confidence by visibly and reliably detecting any unauthorized access or tampering with the packaged product, thereby ensuring its safety and authenticity.

[0016] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a dual authentication system that enables the sender to verify that the product they have dispatched is genuine and has not been tampered with. Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a dual authentication system to allow the receiver to authenticate the product upon delivery via verification mechanisms, such as QR codes or secure databases, the receiver verify the authenticity of the received product and ensure that it matches the one sent by the sender.

[0017] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a dual authentication system for enhancing the security of product delivery by facilitating secure contact data entry and generating a one-time passcode.

[0018] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a dual authentication system to establish a secure connection between the receiver authentication device and the remote server for ensuring that only authorized users can access and utilize the system.

[0019] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a dual authentication system to display supplementary data on the receiver authentication device only when the generated one-time passcode corresponds successfully with the encrypted data stored within the remote server, thereby ensuring the authenticity and integrity of the delivered product.

[0020] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a dual authentication system to prevent counterfeit product deliveries by utilizing encrypted storage of contact data, security codes, and encrypted data within the remote server, thereby enhancing the security and reliability of the entire system.

[0021] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a dual authentication system to enhance trust and confidence in the product delivery process by providing a technologically advanced and fool-proof system that safeguards against counterfeits and unauthorized access, ultimately contributing to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty.

[0022] Still another object of the present invention is to provide a dual authentication system that utilizes encryption and decryption mechanisms to establish trust and confidence among both senders and receivers in the courier network.

[0023] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention provides a dual authentication system for a courier network, ensuring secured delivery of the product by jettisoning the issue of counterfeiting and making product available to the receivers, which are authentic and counterfeit proof.

[0024] In an embodiment, the present invention provides a dual authentication system for a courier network, a label, a plurality of authentication device, a remote server with a data storage unit and a plurality of processors. The label is affixed on a product and / or packing of the product which has to be delivered via said courier network and said label is scanned by said plurality of authentication devices. The label is a one-time use tamper evident product label which include a plurality of tamper evident layers discreetly hidden beneath a scratch off layer and the scratch off layer conceals a unique security code. The plurality of authentication devices include a sender authentication device that is accessed by a sender of the product and a receiver authentication device that is accessed by a receiver of the product. The sender authentication device is configured to prompt said sender to input a contact data of said receiver, said unique security code that is concealed under the scratch off layer of the label along with an additional data. The receiver authentication device is accessed by the receiver for adding a contact data upon receiving the product and upon entering the contact data, a one-time pass code is generated and transferred by the remote server and said additional data is displayed onto the receiver authentication device in case said one-time pass code successfully matched with an encrypted data stored in the remote server, thereby ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit. The remote server is connected to the sender and receiver authentication devices and is configured to store said contact data, security code in an encrypted format to obtain said encrypted data.

[0025] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a dual authentication method for a courier network, comprise steps of, a) serialization of the label, b) activation of label by a sender; and c) authentication of label by a receiver. The production of the label include following steps of a) generating a dataset with plurality of unique security codes, b) encrypting said dataset to obtain an encrypted dataset, c) storing said encrypted dataset in a remote server and f) endorsing each label with the unique security code generated in step (a). The activation of label by said sender is performed by following steps of, a) scratching the scratch off layer for reading the unique security code, wherein the scratching is done by the sender and inputting a contact data of said receiver, said unique security code that is concealed under the scratch off layer of the label along with an additional data in a sender authentication device. The authentication of label by said receiver is performed by following steps of, a) inputting said unique security code in the receiver authentication device upon receiving the product, b) matching said unique security code with the encrypted dataset stored in the remote server, c) allowing the receiver to add a contact data onto the receiver authentication device, upon successful matching at step (b), d) matching the contact data received from the receiver from the contact data added by the sender in step (c), e) generating a one-time pass code by a remote server in case of successful matching in step (b) or else terminating process, f) encrypting the one-time pass code in the remote server upon completion of step (e), g) transferring an encrypted one-time pass code obtained in step (f) to the receiver authentication device, h) requesting the user to add the encrypted one-time pass code to add onto the receiver authentication device and displaying the additional data to the receiver upon successful matching of the encrypted one-time pass code entered by the receiver with the encrypted one-time pass code stored in the remote server, thereby ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit.

[0026] The above objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the hereinafter set forth brief description of the drawings, detailed description of the invention, and claims appended herewith.

[0027] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0028] An understanding of the dual authentication system for a courier network of the present invention may be obtained by reference to the following drawing:

[0029] Figure 1(a) is a block diagram of the dual authentication system for a courier network according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] Figure 1(b) is a flow chart of the dual authentication system for a courier network according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0031] Figure 2(a) is a perspective view of the label in the dual authentication system for a courier network according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2(b) is a perspective view of the label in the dual authentication system for a courier network according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 3(a) and Figure 3(b) are flowcharts of working of the dual authentication system for a courier network according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 4 is a block diagram of the encryption and decryption in the dual authentication system for a courier network according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0034] Figure 5 is a flowchart of authentication process in the dual authentication system for a courier network according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0035] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0036] The present invention will now be described hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings in which a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown. This invention may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as being limited to the embodiment set forth herein. Rather, the embodiment is provided so that this disclosure will be thorough, and will fully convey the scope of the invention to those skilled in the art.

[0037] Many aspects of the invention can be better understood with references made to the drawings below. The components in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Instead, emphasis is placed upon clearly illustrating the components of the present invention. Moreover, like reference numerals designate corresponding parts through the several views in the drawings. Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention, it is to be understood that the embodiments of the invention are not limited in their application to the details of construction and to the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The embodiments of the invention are capable of being practiced and carried out in various ways. In addition, the phraseology and terminology employed herein are for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.

[0038] The present invention provides a dual authentication system for a courier network, ensuring secured delivery of the product by jettisoning the issue of counterfeiting and making products available to the receivers, which are authentic and counterfeit proof. In an embodiment, the present invention provides a dual authentication system for a courier network, a label, a plurality of authentication device, a remote server with a data storage unit and a plurality of processors. The label is affixed on a product and / or packing of the product which has to be delivered via said courier network and said label is scanned by said plurality of authentication devices. The label is a one-time use tamper evident product label which include a plurality of tamper evident layers discreetly hidden beneath a scratch off layer and the scratch off layer conceals a unique security code. The plurality of authentication devices include a sender authentication device that is accessed by a sender of the product and a receiver authentication device that is accessed by a receiver of the product. The sender authentication device is configured to prompt said sender to input a contact data of said receiver, said unique security code that is concealed under the scratch off layer of the label along with an additional data. The receiver authentication device is accessed by the receiver for adding a contact data upon receiving the product and upon entering the contact data, a one-time pass code is generated and transferred by the remote server and said additional data is displayed onto the receiver authentication device in case said one-time pass code successfully matched with an encrypted data stored in the remote server, thereby ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit; and the remote server is connected to the sender and receiver authentication devices and is configured to store said contact data, security code in an encrypted format to obtain said encrypted data.

[0039] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a dual authentication method for a courier network, comprise steps of, a) serialization of the label, b) activation of label by a sender; and c) authentication of label by a receiver. The production of the label include following steps of a) generating a dataset with plurality of unique security codes, b) encrypting said dataset to obtain an encrypted dataset, c) storing said encrypted dataset in a remote server and f) endorsing each label with the unique security code generated in step (a). The activation of label by said sender is performed by following steps of, a) scratching the scratch off layer for reading the unique security code, wherein the scratching is done by the sender and inputting a contact data of said receiver, said unique security code that is concealed under the scratch off layer of the label along with an additional data in a sender authentication device. The authentication of label by said receiver is performed by following steps of, a) inputting said unique security code in the receiver authentication device upon receiving the product, b) matching said unique security code with the encrypted dataset stored in the remote server, c) allowing the receiver to add a contact data onto the receiver authentication device, upon successful matching at step (b), d) matching the contact data received from the receiver from the contact data added by the sender in step (c), e) generating a one-time pass code by a remote server in case of successful matching in step (b) or else terminating process, f) encrypting the one-time pass code in the remote server upon completion of step (e), g) transferring an encrypted one-time pass code obtained in step (f) to the receiver authentication device, and h) requesting the user to add the encrypted one-time pass code to add onto the receiver authentication device and displaying the additional data to the receiver upon successful matching of the encrypted one-time pass code entered by the receiver with the encrypted one-time pass code stored in the remote server, thereby ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit.

[0040] Referring to Figure 1(a), a block diagram of the dual authentication system for a courier network is depicted. The dual authentication system for a courier network is for ensuring the security and authenticity of products while delivery of products and stuffs through a courier network. The dual authentication system for a courier network comprises of a label (1), authentication devices (2, 3), and a remote server (4).

[0041] The label (1) is affixed on a product for one-time use to be delivered through the courier network and the label includes a scratch off layer (5) concealing a unique security code (6) as depicted in Figure 1(b). The unique security code (6) needs to be provided during authentication process. For carrying out the authenticity of the product, two authentication devices (2, 3) are provided, one is a sender authentication device (2) and another a receiver authentication device (3).

[0042] The label (1) is affixed on a product and / or packing of the product which has to be delivered via the courier network. The label (1) is a one-time use tamper evident product label which include a plurality of tamper evident layers discreetly hidden beneath a scratch off layer (5) and the scratch off layer (5) conceals a unique security code (6) as depicted in Figure 2(a). The unique security code (6) include but not limited to numeric, alpha numeric, alphabetic code, image, patterns, holographic images, multi-dimensional images, or a combination thereof. Additionally, the label (1) is tamper evident label that is constructed to show visible signs of tampering or any kind of unauthorized access. The label (1) provides assurance to receiver that the product has not been altered or compromised since it was originally sealed by the sender.

[0043] The plurality of tamper evident layers include an upper layer (7), a substrate layer (11) with one or more security features on a rear side, a plurality of coating materials (14), a chemical coated layer (9), a release coat (8), a sensitive adhesive (12), a metalized tamper-evident holographic layer (10), a release coat agent and a release liner (13) and include a double bleeding security hologram as depicted in Figure 2(b).

[0044] The coating materials (14) are coated on a specific area of the substrate layer (11) forming a plurality of separate security features on separate portions of the double bleeding security hologram label. The sensitive adhesive (12) forms a frangible bond with the surface of product to prevent swapping of product label (1) and avoid counterfeiting.

[0045] Further the label (1) is constructed to reveal clear and noticeable sings of tampering such as broken seal or tampered seal. The label (1) assists in building trust between the sender and receiver. The intact label (1) indicates that the product is safe and has not been tampered.

[0046] The sender authentication device (2) is accessible to a sender of the product and the receiver authentication device (3) is accessible to a receiver of the product. The sender of the product need to feed the contact data of the receiver of the product, and the unique security code (6), which has been concealed under the scratch off layer (5) of the label (1) along with an additional data.

[0047] The sender and receiver are required to scratch the scratch off layer (5) for reading the unique security code (6). The sender authentication device (2) and receiver authentication device (3) include but not limited to scanner, barcode reader, radio frequency identification data reader, or a combination thereof.

[0048] Upon receiving the dispatched product the receiver needs to feed the contact data to receive a one-time pass code that is generated by the remote server for verification of the receiver and after successful verification, if the contact data shared by the sender matches with the contact data of the sender than the unique security code (6) is displayed to the sender authentication device (2) which indicates the authenticity of the product and also indicates that the product is untampered.

[0049] The remote server (4) include but not limited to a data storage unit (7), a plurality of processors (8). Further the contact data is preferably contact number or electronic mail address. The additional data include but not personal message, code or gift card details, bonus points details. The one-time pass code is numeric, alpha numeric, alphabetic code. The contact data, additional data and security data are encrypted and decrypted via said remote server (4) for ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit. The sender authentication device (2) and receiver authentication device are equipped with a recording module for maintaining a log of time zone, frequency, geo-coordinates during the matching of contact details. Further, the present invention provides a dual authentication method for a courier network, comprise steps of, serialization of the label (1), activation of label (1) by a sender; and authentication of label (1) by a receiver.

[0050] The production of the label (1) include following steps of, generating a dataset with plurality of unique security codes (6), encrypting said dataset to obtain an encrypted dataset, storing said encrypted dataset in a remote server (4), endorsing each label (1) with the unique security code (6).

[0051] The activation of label (1) by said sender is performed by following steps of: scratching the scratch off layer (5) for reading the unique security code (6), wherein the scratching is done by the sender, inputting a contact data of said receiver, said unique security code (6) that is concealed under the scratch off layer (5) of the label (1) along with an additional data in a sender authentication device (2).

[0052] The authentication of label (1) by said receiver is performed by following steps of, inputting said unique security code (6) in the receiver authentication device (3) upon receiving the product, matching said unique security code (6) with the encrypted dataset stored in the remote server (4), allowing the receiver to add a contact data onto the receiver authentication device (3), upon successful matching, matching the contact data received from the receiver from the contact data added by the sender, generating a onetime pass code by a remote server (4) in case of successful matching or else terminating process, encrypting the one-time pass code in the remote server (4), transferring an encrypted one-time pass code to the receiver authentication device (3), requesting the user to add the encrypted one-time pass code to add onto the receiver authentication device (3) and displaying the additional data to the receiver upon successful matching of the encrypted one-time pass code entered by the receiver with the encrypted one-time pass code stored in the remote server (4), thereby ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit.

[0053] EXAMPLE 1

[0054] Working of the Invention

[0055] Figure 3(a) and Figure 3(b) depicts working of the present invention, the present invention provides a dual authentication system for a courier network in which the sender prepares a package for delivery and affixes the one-time use label to the package. The label has a scratch-off layer concealing a security code.

[0056] The label (1) is affixed on a product and / or packing of the product which has to be delivered via said courier network. The label (1) is scanned by said plurality of authentication devices (2, 3). Further the label (1) is a one-time use tamper evident product label which include a plurality of tamper evident layers discreetly hidden beneath a scratch off layer (5) and the scratch off layer (5) conceals a unique security code (6).

[0057] Additionally, the label (1) is tamper evident label that is constructed to show visible signs of tampering or any kind of unauthorized access. The label (1) provides assurance to receiver that the product has not been altered or compromised since it was originally sealed by the sender.

[0058] The sender uses the sender authentication device which prompts the sender to input the receiver's contact data (e.g., phone number) and the unique security code under the scratch-off layer. The sender also enters additional data, like a personalized message. The package is dispatched and delivered to the receiver.

[0059] Upon receiving the package, the receiver uses the receiver authentication device which prompts the receiver to enter their contact data (e.g., email address). The receiver enters their contact data, and the device generates a one-time pass code. The remote server receives the pass code request, verifies it against the encrypted data stored (including the unique security code) using its processors, and if the code matches, it sends the pass code to the receiver authentication device. The receiver authentication device displays the additional data provided by the sender (e.g., personalized message) along with the pass code, confirming the secure delivery of the package.

[0060] The present invention employs encryption techniques to protect sensitive information at various stages. When the sender enters the receiver's contact data, such as a phone number or email address, into the sender authentication device, this information undergoes encryption. Encryption involves converting the plain contact data into an unreadable format using cryptographic algorithms. By doing so, the contact data is transformed into a cipher text that cannot be understood by unauthorized individuals. This encrypted contact data is then securely transmitted to the remote server for storage in its data storage unit as depicted in Figure 4.

[0061] Similarly, the unique security code, concealed beneath the scratch-off layer of the label, is also subjected to encryption. The unique security code, which include numeric, alphanumeric, or alphabetic characters, is transformed into an encrypted format using encryption technique or protocol, which ensures that the unique security code remains confidential and protected from unauthorized access or tampering.

[0062] The encrypted contact data and security code are stored within the remote server's data storage unit. The encryption process makes it extremely difficult for anyone without the appropriate decryption key to retrieve the original contact data or security code from the stored encrypted data. This adds an extra layer of security, reducing the risk of unauthorized disclosure or manipulation of sensitive information.

[0063] To ensure secure delivery, the remote server's processors handle the encryption and decryption operations as required. When validating the one-time pass code entered by the receiver, the remote server decrypts the stored encrypted data using the appropriate decryption key to compare it with the received pass code. This process allows the server to authenticate the delivery and verify the integrity of the received data, providing assurance that the product has been securely delivered without any counterfeit. By combining the one-time use label and the authentication devices, the dual authentication system provides multiple layers of protection against tampering. These measures ensure that any attempts to tamper with the product or the label are readily identifiable, allowing for swift action to be taken to address any potential security breaches. As a result, the system help to maintain the integrity and security of the delivered product, providing assurance to both the sender and the receiver that the package has remained untampered throughout the courier network as depicted in Figure

[0064] 5.

[0065] Further, the present invention provides a dual authentication method for a courier network, comprise steps of, serialization of the label (1), activation of label (1) by a sender; and authentication of label (1) by a receiver.

[0066] The production of the label (1) include following steps of, generating a dataset with plurality of unique security codes (6), encrypting said dataset to obtain an encrypted dataset, storing said encrypted dataset in a remote server (4), endorsing each label (1) with the unique security code (6).

[0067] The activation of label (1) by said sender is performed by following steps of: scratching the scratch off layer (5) for reading the unique security code (6), wherein the scratching is done by the sender, inputting a contact data of said receiver, said unique security code (6) that is concealed under the scratch off layer (5) of the label (1) along with an additional data in a sender authentication device (2).

[0068] The authentication of label (1) by said receiver is performed by following steps of, inputting said unique security code (6) in the receiver authentication device (3) upon receiving the product, matching said unique security code (6) with the encrypted dataset stored in the remote server (4), allowing the receiver to add a contact data onto the receiver authentication device (3), upon successful matching, matching the contact data received from the receiver from the contact data added by the sender, generating a onetime pass code by a remote server (4) in case of successful matching or else terminating process, encrypting the one-time pass code in the remote server (4), transferring an encrypted one-time pass code to the receiver authentication device (3), requesting the user to add the encrypted one-time pass code to add onto the receiver authentication device (3) and displaying the additional data to the receiver upon successful matching of the encrypted one-time pass code entered by the receiver with the encrypted one-time pass code stored in the remote server (4), thereby ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit.

[0069] EXAMPLE 2

[0070] Case Scenario 1: First Level Authentication

[0071] The present invention provide a dual authentication system which enhances the security of product delivery within a courier network. The first level authentication is done by the label (1).

[0072] The label (1) is affixed on a product and / or packing of the product which has to be delivered via the courier network. The label (1) is a one-time use tamper evident product label which include a plurality of tamper evident layers discreetly hidden beneath a scratch off layer (5) and the scratch off layer (5) conceals a unique security code (6). Additionally, the label (1) is tamper evident label that is constructed to show visible signs of tampering or any kind of unauthorized access. The label (1) provides assurance to receiver that the product has not been altered or compromised since it was originally sealed by the sender.

[0073] The plurality of tamper evident layers (7, 8, 9) includes an upper layer (7), a substrate layer (11) with one or more security features on a rear side, a plurality of coating materials (14), a chemical coated layer (9), a release coat (8), a sensitive adhesive (12), a metalized tamper-evident holographic layer (10), a release coat agent and a release liner (13) and include a double bleeding security hologram.

[0074] The coating materials (14) are coated on a specific area of the substrate layer (11) forming a plurality of separate security features on separate portions of the double bleeding security hologram label. The sensitive adhesive (12) forms a frangible bond with the surface of product to prevent swapping of product label (1) and avoid counterfeiting.

[0075] Further the label (1) is constructed to reveal clear and noticeable sings of tampering such as broken seal or tampered seal. The label (1) assists in building trust between the sender and receiver. The intact label (1) indicates that the product is safe and has not been tampered. Case Scenario 2: Second Level Authentication

[0076] The present invention provides the dual authentication system which enhances the security of product delivery within a courier network, further the second level authentication is done by using sender authentication device (2), receiver authentication device (3), the label (1) and the remote server (4) as depicted in Figure 1.

[0077] The label (1) is equipped with a special scratch-off layer. This layer is scraped off by the sender, revealing a confidential security code, such as 64568298929, as visually illustrated in Figure 2. As part of the process, Sender S is provided with a sender authentication device (2). Using this device, the sender inputs not only the recipient's contact number but also the aforementioned security code. Additionally, the sender can include extra information like a personal message. All of this input data is subjected to encryption and then securely stored on a remote server (4). Once these initial steps are completed, the item is dispatched to the intended recipient based on the geographical coordinates specified by the sender. Upon delivery, the recipient engages with a receiver authentication device (3). Through this device, the recipient provides their contact number. The receiver authentication device (3) then establishes a connection with the remote server (4) to compare the contact number provided by the sender during the initial steps with the contact number entered by the recipient. Upon a successful match, the remote server (4) generates a single-use pass code.

[0078] Subsequently, the recipient is prompted to input this pass code into the receiver authentication device (3). Once entered, the pass code is verified against the stored data. Upon successful verification, any additional information that was sent by the sender is displayed to the recipient. In essence, this process ensures secure sender and recipient verification, as well as the secure exchange of additional information between them in the context of sending and receiving items through a courier network.

[0079] Therefore, the present invention provides a secure and reliable dual authentication system and method for a courier network to ensure secure and reliable operations like intact delivery of products through courier network, eliminating counterfeit and duplication issues, by utilizing encryption and decryption techniques during the transmission process, above all the present invention ensures to maintain the confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity of the data exchanged between the authentication devices and the remote server.

[0080] Many modifications and other embodiments of the invention set forth herein will readily occur to one skilled in the art to which the invention pertain having the benefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that the invention is not to be limited to the specific embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be included within the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms are employed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation.

Claims

CLAIMSWe claim:

1. A dual authentication system for a courier network, comprising of: a label (1); a plurality of authentication devices (2, 3); and a remote server (4) with a data storage unit and a plurality of processors; wherein: said label (1) is affixed on a product and / or packing of the product which has to be delivered via said courier network and said label (1) is scanned by said plurality of authentication devices (2, 3); said label (1) is a one-time use tamper evident product label which include a plurality of tamper evident layers discreetly hidden beneath a scratch off layer (5) and the scratch off layer (5) conceals a unique security code (6); said plurality of authentication devices (2, 3) include a sender authentication device(2) that is accessed by a sender of the product and a receiver authentication device(3) that is accessed by a receiver of the product; said sender authentication device (2) is configured to prompt said sender to input a contact data of said receiver, said unique security code (6) that is concealed under the scratch off layer (5) of the label (1) along with an additional data; said receiver authentication device (3) is accessed by the receiver for adding a contact data upon receiving the product and upon entering the contact data, a onetime pass code is generated and transferred by the remote server (4) and said additional data is displayed onto the receiver authentication device (3) in case said one-time pass code successfully matched with an encrypted data stored in the remote server (4), thereby ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit; andsaid remote server (4) is connected to the sender and receiver authentication devices (2, 3) and is configured to store said contact data, security code in an encrypted format to obtain said encrypted data.

2. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said plurality of tamper evident layers includes an upper layer (7), a substrate layer (11) with one or more security features on a rear side, a plurality of coating materials (14), a chemical coated layer (9), a release coat (8), a sensitive adhesive (12), a metalized tamper-evident holographic layer (10), a release coat agent and a release liner (13) and include a double bleeding security hologram.

3. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensitive adhesive (12) forms a frangible bond with the surface of product to prevent swapping of label (1) and avoid counterfeiting.

4. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said unique security code (6) includes but not limited to numeric, alpha numeric, alphabetic code, image, patterns, holographic images, multi-dimensional images, or a combination thereof.

5. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sender and receiver are required to scratch the scratch off layer (5) for reading the unique security code (6).

6. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sender authentication device (2) and receiver authentication device (3) include but not limited to scanner, barcode reader, radio frequency identification data reader, or a combination thereof.

7. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said remote server (4) include but not limited to a data storage unit (7), a plurality of processors (8).

8. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said contact data is preferably contact number or electronic mail address.

9. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said additional data include but not personal message, code or gift card details, bonus points details.

10. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said one-time pass code is numeric, alpha numeric, alphabetic code.

11. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said contact data, additional data and security data are encrypted and decrypted via said remote server (4) for ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit.

12. The dual authentication system for a courier network as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sender authentication device (2) and receiver authentication device are equipped with a recording module for maintaining a log of time zone, frequency, geocoordinates during the matching of contact details.

13. A dual authentication method for a courier network, comprise steps of: a) serialization of the label (1); b) activation of label (1) by a sender; and c) authentication of label (1) by a receiver; wherein: said production of the label (1) include following steps of: a) generating a dataset with plurality of unique security codes (6); b) encrypting said dataset to obtain an encrypted dataset; c) storing said encrypted dataset in a remote server (4); d) endorsing each label (1) with the unique security code (6) generated in step (a); said activation of label (1) by said sender is performed by following steps of:a) scratching the scratch off layer (5) for reading the unique security code (6), wherein the scratching is done by the sender; b) inputting a contact data of said receiver, said unique security code (6) that is concealed under the scratch off layer (5) of the label (1) along with an additional data in a sender authentication device (2); said authentication of label (1) by said receiver is performed by following steps of: a) inputting said unique security code (6) in the receiver authentication device (3) upon receiving the product; b) matching said unique security code (6) with the encrypted dataset stored in the remote server (4); c) allowing the receiver to add a contact data onto the receiver authentication device (3), upon successful matching at step (b); d) matching the contact data received from the receiver from the contact data added by the sender in step (c); e) generating a one-time pass code by a remote server (4) in case of successful matching in step (b) or else terminating process; f) encrypting the one-time pass code in the remote server (4) upon completion of step (e); g) transferring an encrypted one-time pass code obtained in step (f) to the receiver authentication device (3); h) requesting the user to add the encrypted one-time pass code to add onto the receiver authentication device (3); i) displaying the additional data to the receiver upon successful matching of the encrypted one-time pass code entered by the receiver with the encrypted one-time pass code stored in the remote server (4), thereby ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit.

14. The dual authentication method for a courier network as claimed in claim 13, wherein said unique security code (6) includes but not limited to numeric, alpha numeric, alphabetic code, image, patterns, holographic images, multi-dimensional images, or a combination thereof.

15. The dual authentication method for a courier network as claimed in claim 13, wherein said sender authentication device (2) and receiver authentication device (3) include but not limited to scanner, barcode reader, radio frequency identification data reader, or a combination thereof.

16. The dual authentication method for a courier network as claimed in claim 13, wherein said contact data is preferably contact number or electronic mail address.

17. The dual authentication method for a courier network as claimed in claim 13, wherein said one-time pass code is numeric, alpha numeric, alphabetic code.

18. The dual authentication method for a courier network as claimed in claim 13, wherein said additional data include but not personal message, code or gift card details, bonus points details.

19. The dual authentication method for a courier network as claimed in claim 13, wherein said contact data, additional data and security data are encrypted and decrypted via said remote server (4) for ensuring a secured delivery of the product without any counterfeit.

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