System and method for tracing a location of an international in-roamer register (IIR) subscriber in a network

Abstract

A method (700) for tracing location of a subscriber in a network (106) is disclosed. The method (700) includes receiving, by an international in-roamer register (IIR) server (212), a first customized request and a second customized request from a visited Service Communication Proxy (V-SCP) (226A) to extract a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber. The extracted SUPI and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters is stored in a database and IIR server (212), determines a Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI) corresponding to the extracted SUPI within the second customized request and establishing a mapping between the extracted SUPI and the determined GPSI and storing the mapping in the database. The IIR server (212) provides, the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping to a Visited Gateway Mobile Location Centre (V-GMLC) (218) to enable tracing the location of the subscriber.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACING A LOCATION OF AN INTERNATIONAL IN-ROAMER REGISTER (HR) SUBSCRIBER IN A NETWORKRESERVATION OF RIGHTS

[0001] A portion of the disclosure of this patent document contains material, which is subject to intellectual property rights such as, but are not limited to, copyright, design, trademark, Integrated Circuit (IC) layout design, and / or trade dress protection, belonging to Jio Platforms Limited or its affiliates (hereinafter referred as owner). The owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in the Patent and Trademark Office patent files or records, but otherwise reserves all rights whatsoever. All rights to such intellectual property are fully reserved by the owner.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to the field of telecommunication networks. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a system and a method for tracing a location of an international in-roamer register (HR) subscriber in a network.DEFINITION

[0003] As used in the present disclosure, the following terms are generally intended to have the meaning as set forth below, except to the extent that the context in which they are used to indicate otherwise.

[0004] The expression “Network Function (NF)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a software- based component that executes specific network tasks within a telecom network, including but not limited to functions related to authentication, authorization, location tracking, and session management. The NFs can be instantiated and scaled dynamically, allowing for flexible network management and optimization in both 4G and 5G architectures.

[0005] The expression “International In-roamer Register (HR)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a specialized network node that stores and manages the roaming data of international subscribers who are visiting a network. The HR facilitates the retrieval of critical information such as subscriber identity, location, and mobility data, enabling accurate tracking and communication with the home network of the international in-roamer subscriber.

[0006] The expression “Diameter Edge Agent (DEA)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a network function responsible for routing and managing diameter protocol messages at the edge of the network. The DEA serves as an intermediary that handles authentication, authorization, and accounting requests, ensuring secure and efficient communication between the visited network and external entities.

[0007] The expression “Gateway Mobile Location Centre (GMLC)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a network node that manages the retrieval of location information for mobile subscribers. The GMLC interfaces with various network elements to obtain and provide accurate location data, supporting services such as emergency calls, location-based services, and lawful interception.

[0008] The expression “Diameter Routing Agent (DRA)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a network component that optimizes the routing of diameter messages within the telecom network. The DRA ensures that messages are directed to the appropriate nodes, such as the DEA, GMLC, and HR, thereby reducing network congestion, improving response times, and enhancing overall network efficiency.

[0009] The expression “Mobility Management Entity (MME)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a key control node in the network responsible for handling signalling related to mobility and session management. The MME coordinates withother network functions to manage handovers, attach / detach procedures, and bearer activation / deactivation for the subscribers.

[0010] The expression “Service Communication Proxy (SCP)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a network function that acts as a communication facilitator, routing, and balancing a Hyper Text Transfer Protocol (HTTP) message in the network. The SCP plays a critical role in ensuring efficient and secure message routing between network functions, including facilitating communication between visited and home network entities. The term “Visited Service Communication Proxy (V-SCP)” refers to a network function deployed in a visited Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) that operates as an intermediary for servicebased communication between network functions of the visited network and network functions of a home network. The V-SCP manages and optimizes inter-network signaling by providing service communication control functions such as message routing, traffic filtering, policy enforcement, and load balancing. The expression “Security Edge Protection Proxy (SEPP)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a security-focused network function that protects and manages the inter-network interfaces between the visited and home networks. The SEPP ensures secure communication by encrypting and decrypting messages, thereby maintaining the confidentiality and integrity of data exchanged across network boundaries.

[0011] The expression “Unified Data Management (UDM)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a central data repository in the 5G network that stores and manages subscriber-related information, including profiles, authentication credentials, and service subscriptions. The UDM facilitates access to this data by various network functions to support subscriber services, authentication, and policy management.

[0012] The expression “Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a core network function in the network that handles signalling related to access, mobility management, and connection setup.The AMF coordinates with the UDM and other network functions to manage registration, connection establishment, handovers, and session continuity for mobile subscribers.

[0013] The expression “Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a unique identifier assigned to each mobile subscriber in the network. The SUPI is used to identify and authenticate the subscriber within the network and is typically stored in the UDM. It is designed to be globally unique, allowing for efficient and secure subscriber identification, especially in scenarios involving roaming between different network operators.

[0014] The expression “Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to an identifier used to publicly reference a subscriber in the network. The GPSI is derived from the SUPI and is used for services that do not require the full security of the SUPI, such as making a voice call or sending a text message. The GPSI allows for a level of privacy protection by providing a public identifier that can be mapped to the SUPI without exposing the SUPI itself.

[0015] The expression “Visited Gateway Mobile Uocation Centre (V-GMLC)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a network function deployed in a visited PUMN to provide gateway support for location-based services (UBS) in relation to roaming subscribers. The V-GMLC is configured to receive identifiers, such as the Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and the Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI), along with dynamic roaming parameters from the HR server. Based on this information, the V-GMLC establishes communication with serving network functions (e.g., AMF, SMF) to determine or refine the geographical location of the roaming subscriber. The V-GMLC thereby supports enhanced location-based services, emergency call handling, and regulatory compliance requirements within the visited network.

[0016] The expression “Visited Access and Mobility Management Function (V-AMF)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a logical network function residing in the visited Public Land Mobile Network (VPLMN) and is responsible for managing access and mobility procedures for a roaming user equipment (UE), including registration, connection management, and mobility handling within the visited network domain. The V-AMF communicates with the Home AMF (H-AMF) in the UE’s Home PLMN (HPLMN) to perform authentication, subscription retrieval, and service authorization, while locally managing access network interactions, such as RAN signaling and the UE context establishment. The V-AMF supports interworking with other core network functions, including the SMF, Policy Control Function (PCF), and Network Slice Selection Function (NSSF), and plays a key role in enabling efficient and secure access for roaming users, consistent with operator policies and roaming agreements.

[0017] The expression “Home-Unified Data Management (H-UDM)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a centralized network function within a subscriber’s home network that securely stores and manages subscriber profiles, authentication credentials, and service subscriptions in the 5G system, enabling other network functions to access this data for authentication, session management, and policy enforcement.

[0018] The expression “Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (NSSAI)” used hereinafter in the specification refers to a data element used in 5G networks to assist in selecting the appropriate network slice for a user. It consists of one or more Single Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (S-NSSAI) identifiers, each representing a specific network slice characterized by particular network capabilities and services. The NSSAI enables the 5G core and access network to efficiently route and manage user traffic according to the subscriber’s subscription and service requirements, ensuring tailored quality of service and resource allocation.

[0019] The expression “Allocation and Retention Priority (ARP) used hereinafter in the specification refers to a parameter used in 4G and 5G networks to determine the priority level for resource allocation and retention during network congestion or overload situations. The ARP specifies whether a particular session or service request should be accepted, delayed, or rejected based on its priority compared to other ongoing sessions. The ARP helps the network manage limited resources by prioritizing critical or higher-value services, ensuring optimal quality of service and maintaining network stability.

[0020] These definitions are in addition to those expressed in the art.BACKGROUND

[0021] The following description of related art is intended to provide background information pertaining to the field of the disclosure. This section may include certain aspects of the art that may be related to various features of the present disclosure. However, it should be appreciated that this section be used only to enhance the reader's understanding with respect to the present disclosure, and not as admissions of prior art.

[0022] With the rapid adoption of 5G networks, there has been an increase in international roaming, which allows subscribers to use their mobile devices in foreign networks. These international in-roamer subscribers connect to the visited 5G network while still being managed by their home network subscriber management system. Traditionally, location of such roaming subscribers is tracked using various network components, including an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) and a Unified Data Management (UDM) system.

[0023] In existing 4G network, the International In-Roamer Register (HR) facilitates the tracking of international roaming subscribers by interfacing with a Mobility Management Entity (MME) to retrieve and manage subscriber locationinformation. This approach has been successful in enabling 4G networks to provide accurate location data for in-roamer subscribers.

[0024] However, the transition to 5G networks introduces new complexities and requirements for location tracking, particularly for international in-roamer subscribers. In a typical 5G international roaming scenario, the AMF and a Gateway Mobile Location Centre (GMLC) of a visited network handle subscriber management, while the UDM resides in the home network of the international operator to which the subscriber belongs. One of the key challenges arises from the fact that the current 5G roaming guidelines do not specify use of a standardized interface between the 5G GMLC and the UDM hosted in the home network of international operators.

[0025] The absence of the standardized interface for direct communication between the GMLC of the visited network and the UDM of the home network presents a significant challenge for location tracking of international in-roamer subscribers. Without the standardized interface, it becomes difficult for the serving 5G operator to accurately determine the current location of international subscribers under lawful interception or other regulatory compliance scenarios. This gap in communication can lead to compliance issues with Lawful Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), which require precise and real-time location data for lawful interception purposes.

[0026] There is, therefore, a need in the art to provide a method and a system that can mitigate the disadvantages of the prior art.OBJECTIVE

[0027] Some of the objectives of the present disclosure, which at least one embodiment herein satisfies, are as follows:

[0028] An objective of the present disclosure is to provide a system and a method for tracing a location of an international in-roamer register (IIR) subscriber in a network.

[0029] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide the system and the method that ensures accurate location information retrieval for regulatory and lawful interception purposes, ensuring that operators can comply with regulatory requirements without violating international agreements.

[0030] Another objective of the present disclosure is to provide the system and the method for enhancing the security and privacy of the international in-roamer subscriber data by minimizing the transmission of sensitive information between networks.

[0031] Other objects and advantages of the present disclosure will be more apparent from the following description, which is not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure.SUMMARY

[0032] In an exemplary embodiment, a method for tracing location of a subscriber in a network is disclosed. The method includes receiving, by an international in-roamer register (IIR) server, a first customized request and a second customized request from a visited Service Communication Proxy (V-SCP). The method includes parsing, by the IIR server, the first customized request and the second customized request to extract a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber. The method includes storing, by the IIR server, the extracted SUPI and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters in a database. The method includes determining, by the IIR server, a Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI) corresponding to the extracted SUPI within the second customized request and establishing a mapping between the extractedSUPI and the determined GPSI and storing the mapping in the database, The method includes providing, by the IIR server, the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping to a Visited Gateway Mobile Location Centre (V-GMLC) to enable tracing the location of the subscriber.

[0033] In an embodiment, the first customized request includes an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) access registration request and an AMF access registration response exchanged between a visited AMF (V-AMF) and a Home-Unified Data Management (H-UDM) and the second customized request includes an Access and Mobility Data Retrieval request and an Access and Mobility Data Retrieval response exchanged between the V-AMF and the H-UDM.

[0034] In an embodiment, upon determining that the GPSI is not present in the second customized request initiating, by the IIR server, an identifier translation request sent to the H-UDM to obtain the GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI. Receiving, by the IIR server, an identifier translation response from the H-UDM, wherein the identifier translation response comprises the GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI and establishing, by the IIR server, the mapping between the extracted SUPI and the obtained GPSI of the subscriber and storing the mapping in the database.

[0035] In an embodiment, the one or more dynamic roaming parameters comprises additional location identifying parameters including an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) instance identifier, deregistration callback Uniform Resource Identifier (URI), global unique AMF identifier, radio access technology type, and, optionally, a permanent equipment identifier.

[0036] In an embodiment, enabling the tracing of the location of the subscriber includes receiving, by the HR server from the V-GMLC, an access registration information retrieval request for the subscriber, where the access registration information retrieval request includes the SUPI or the GPSI. Querying, by the HRserver, the database to fetch the stored dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber. Transmitting, by the IIR server, an access registration information retrieval response comprising the retrieved dynamic roaming parameters to the V- GMLC, to enable the V-GMLC to trace the location of the subscriber based on the dynamic roaming parameters.

[0037] In an embodiment, the method includes transmitting, by the IIR server, an error response to the V-GMLC when the access registration information retrieval request is based on the GPSI for which a corresponding SUPI is not stored in the database.

[0038] In an embodiment, the method includes updating, by the IIR server, the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping in the database upon receiving updated information related to the subscriber.

[0039] In an exemplary embodiment, a system for tracing location of a subscriber in a network is disclosed. The system includes an international in-roamer register (IIR) server, configured to receive a first customized request and a second customized request from a visited Service Communication Proxy (V-SCP). The system includes parse the first customized request and the second customized request to extract a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber. The system includes store the extracted SUPI and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters in a database. The system includes determine a Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI) corresponding to the extracted SUPI within the second customized request and establishing a mapping between the extracted SUPI and the determined GPSI and storing the mapping in the database. The system includes provide the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the established mapping to a Visited Gateway Mobile Location Centre (V-GMLC) to enable tracing the location of the subscriber.

[0040] In an embodiment, the first customized request includes an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) access registration request and an AMF access registration response exchanged between a visited AMF (V-AMF) and a Home-Unified Data Management (H-UDM) and the second customized request includes an Access and Mobility Data Retrieval request and an Access and Mobility Data Retrieval response exchanged between the V-AMF and the H-UDM.

[0041] In an embodiment, upon determining that the GPSI is not present in the second customized request, the HR server is configured to initiate an identifier translation request that is sent to the H-UDM to obtain the GPSI for the extracted SUPI. Receive an identifier translation response from the H-UDM, wherein the identifier translation response comprises the obtained GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI and establish the mapping between the extracted SUPI and the obtained GPSI of the subscriber and storing the mapping in the database.

[0042] In an embodiment, the subscriber data comprises additional location identifying parameters include an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) instance identifier, deregistration callback Uniform Resource Identifier (URI), global unique AMF identifier, radio access technology type, and, optionally, a permanent equipment identifier.

[0043] In an embodiment, for enabling the tracing of the location of the subscriber, the HR server is configured to receive, from the V-GMLC, an access registration information retrieval request for the subscriber, where the access registration information retrieval request includes the SUPI or the GPSI. Query the database based on the received SUPI or GPSI, to fetch the stored dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber and transmit an access registration information retrieval response comprising the retrieved dynamic roaming parameters to the V-GMLC, to enable the V-GMLC to trace the location of the subscriber based on the dynamic roaming parameters.

[0044] In an embodiment, the IIR server transmits an error response to the V- GMLC when the access registration information retrieval request is based on the GPSI for which a corresponding SUPI is not stored in the database.

[0045] In an embodiment, the IIR server updates the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping in the database upon receiving updated information related to the subscriber.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, a computer program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute a method for tracing location of a subscriber in a network is described. The method includes receiving, by an international in-roamer register (HR) server, a first customized request and a second customized request from a visited Service Communication Proxy (V- SCP). The method includes parsing, by the IIR server, the first customized request and the second customized request to extract a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber. The method includes storing, by the HR server, the extracted SUPI and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters in a database. The method includes determining, by the IIR server, a Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI) corresponding to the extracted SUPI within the second customized request and establishing a mapping between the extracted SUPI and the determined GPSI and storing the mapping in the database, The method includes providing, by the IIR server, the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping to a Visited Gateway Mobile Uocation Centre (V-GMLC) to enable tracing the location of the subscriber.

[0047] The foregoing general description of the illustrative embodiments and the following detailed description thereof are merely exemplary aspects of the teachings of this disclosure and are not restrictive.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE ACCOMPANYING DRAWING

[0048] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein, and constitute a part of this disclosure, illustrate exemplary embodiments of the disclosed methods and systems in which, like reference numerals, refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings. Components in the drawings are not necessarily to scale emphasis instead being placed upon clearly illustrating the principles of the present disclosure. Some drawings may indicate the components using block diagrams and may not represent the internal circuitry of each component. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that disclosure of such drawings includes disclosure of electrical components, electronic components or circuitry commonly used to implement such components.

[0049] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network architecture for implementing a system for tracing a location of an international in-roamer register (HR) subscriber in a network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary system architecture for tracing the location of the HR subscriber in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary block diagram of a system for tracing the location of the HR subscriber in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary flowchart of a method for tracing the location of the HR subscriber in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 4 illustrates another exemplary flowchart of the method for tracing the location of the IIR subscriber in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 5 illustrates another exemplary flowchart of the method for tracing the location of the IIR subscriber in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0055] FIG. 6 illustrates yet another exemplary flowchart of the method for tracing the location of the IIR subscriber in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram of a method for tracing the location of the IIR subscriber in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary computer system in which or with which the embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented.

[0058] The foregoing shall be more apparent from the following more detailed description of the disclosure.LIST OF REFERENCE NUMERALS100 - Network architecture102-1, 102-2... 102-N - Plurality of Users104-1, 104-2... 104-N - Plurality of User Equipments106 - Network108 - System200A - System architecture202 - Processors204 - Memory206 - Interface(s) 208 - Processing engine210 - Database200B - Block diagram212 - International In- roamer Register (HR) server214A - Visited-Diameter Edge Agent (V-DEA) 214B - Home-Diameter Edge Agent (H-DEA)216 - Visited-Diameter Routing Agent (V-DRA)218 - Visited-Gateway Mobile Location Centre (V-GMLC)220 - Visited-4G / 5G network222 - Visited-Mobility Management Entity (V-MME) 224A- Visited-Other network elements / Unified Data Management (V-UDM)224B- Home-Other network elements / Unified Data Management (H-UDM)226A - Visited-Service Communication Proxy (V-SCP)226B - Home-Service Communication Proxy (H-SCP)228A - Visited-Security Edge Protection Proxy (V-SEPP)228B - Home-Security Edge Protection Proxy (H-SEPP)230 - Home 4G / 5G network300 - Flow diagram 400 - Flow diagram500 - Flow diagram600 - Flow diagram700 - Method flow diagram800 - Computer system 810 - External storage device820 - Bus830 - Main memory840 - Read-only memory850 - Mass storage device 860 - Communication port(s)870 - ProcessorDETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] In the following description, for the purposes of explanation, various specific details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding ofembodiments of the present disclosure. It will be apparent, however, that embodiments of the present disclosure may be practiced without these specific details. Several features described hereafter can each be used independently of one another or with any combination of other features. An individual feature may not address any of the problems discussed above or might address only some of the problems discussed above. Some of the problems discussed above might not be fully addressed by any of the features described herein. Example embodiments of the present disclosure are described below, as illustrated in various drawings in which like reference numerals refer to the same parts throughout the different drawings.

[0060] The ensuing description provides exemplary embodiments only and is not intended to limit the scope, applicability, or configuration of the disclosure. Rather, the ensuing description of the exemplary embodiments will provide those skilled in the art with an enabling description for implementing an exemplary embodiment. It should be understood that various changes may be made in the function and arrangement of elements without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure as set forth.

[0061] Specific details are given in the following description to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without these specific details. For example, circuits, systems, networks, processes, and other components may be shown as components in block diagram form in order not to obscure the embodiments in unnecessary detail. In other instances, well-known circuits, processes, algorithms, structures, and techniques may be shown without unnecessary detail in order to avoid obscuring the embodiments.

[0062] Also, it is noted that individual embodiments may be described as a process that is depicted as a flowchart, a flow diagram, a data flow diagram, a structure diagram, or a block diagram. Although a flowchart may describe the operations as a sequential process, many of the operations can be performed in parallel or concurrently.In addition, the order of the operations may be re-arranged. A process is terminated when its operations are completed but could have additional steps not included in a figure. A process may correspond to a method, a function, a procedure, a subroutine, a subprogram, etc. When a process corresponds to a function, its termination can correspond to a return of the function to the calling function or the main function.

[0063] The word “exemplary” and / or “demonstrative” is used herein to mean serving as an example, instance, or illustration. For the avoidance of doubt, the subject matter disclosed herein is not limited by such examples. In addition, any aspect or design described herein as “exemplary” and / or “demonstrative” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other aspects or designs, nor is it meant to preclude equivalent exemplary structures and techniques known to those of ordinary skill in the art. Furthermore, to the extent that the terms “includes,” “has,” “contains,” and other similar words are used in either the detailed description or the claims, such terms are intended to be inclusive like the term “comprising” as an open transition word without precluding any additional or other elements.

[0064] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment” or “an embodiment” or “an instance” or “one instance” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. Thus, the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment” or “in an embodiment” in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

[0065] The terminology used herein is to describe particular embodiments only and is not intended to be limiting the disclosure. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context indicates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms “includes” and / or“comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. As used herein, the term “and / or” includes any combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. It should be noted that the terms “mobile device”, “user equipment”, “user device”, “communication device”, “device” and similar terms are used interchangeably for the purpose of describing the invention. These terms are not intended to limit the scope of the invention or imply any specific functionality or limitations on the described embodiments. The use of these terms is solely for convenience and clarity of description. The invention is not limited to any particular type of device or equipment, and it should be understood that other equivalent terms or variations thereof may be used interchangeably without departing from the scope of the invention as defined herein.

[0066] As used herein, an “electronic device”, or “portable electronic device”, or “user device” or “communication device” or “user equipment” or “device” refers to any electrical, electronic, electromechanical and computing device. The user device is capable of receiving and / or transmitting one or parameters, performing function / s, communicating with other user devices and transmitting data to the other user devices. The user equipment may have a processor, a display, a memory, a battery and an input-means such as a hard keypad and / or a soft keypad. The user equipment may be capable of operating on any radio access technology including but not limited to IP-enabled communication, Zig Bee, Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy, Near Field Communication, Z-Wave, Wi-Fi, Wi-Fi direct, etc. For instance, the user equipment may include, but not limited to, a mobile phone, smartphone, virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, laptop, a general-purpose computer, desktop, personal digital assistant, tablet computer, mainframe computer, or any other device as may be obvious to a person skilled in the art for implementation of the features of the present disclosure.

[0067] Further, the user device may also include a “processor” or “processing unit” includes processing unit, wherein processor refers to any logic circuitry for processing instructions. The processor may be a general-purpose processor, a special purpose processor, a conventional processor, a digital signal processor, a plurality of microprocessors, one or more microprocessors in association with a Digital Signal Processing (DSP) core, a controller, a microcontroller, Application Specific Integrated Circuits, Field Programmable Gate Array circuits, any other type of integrated circuits, etc. The processor may perform signal coding data processing, input / output processing, and / or any other functionality that enables the working of the system according to the present disclosure. More specifically, the processor is a hardware processor.

[0068] As portable electronic devices and wireless technologies continue to improve and grow in popularity, the advancing wireless technologies for data transfer are also expected to evolve and replace the older generations of technologies. In the field of wireless data communications, the dynamic advancement of various generations of cellular technology are also seen. The development, in this respect, has been incremental in the order of second generation (2G), third generation (3G), fourth generation (4G), and now fifth generation (5G), and more such generations are expected to continue in the forthcoming time.

[0069] Radio Access Technology (RAT) refers to the technology used by mobile devices / User Equipment (UE) to connect to a cellular network. It refers to the specific protocol and standards that govern the way devices communicate with base stations, which are responsible for providing the wireless connection. Further, each RAT has its own set of protocols and standards for communication, which define the frequency bands, modulation techniques, and other parameters used for transmitting and receiving data. Examples of RATs include a GSM (Global System for Mobile Communications), a Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA), a Universal Mobile Telecommunications System (UMTS), a Long-Term Evolution (LTE), a FifthGeneration (5G) technology, and a Sixth Generation (6G) technology. The choice of RAT depends on a variety of factors, including the network infrastructure, the available spectrum, and the mobile device's / device's capabilities. Mobile devices often support multiple RATs, allowing them to connect to different types of networks and provide optimal performance based on the available network resources.

[0070] Wireless communication technology has rapidly evolved over the past few decades. The first generation of wireless communication technology was analog, offering only voice services. Further, text messaging and data services became possible when a Second Generation (2G) technology was introduced. A Third Generation (3G) technology marked the introduction of high-speed internet access, mobile video calling, and location-based services. A Fourth Generation (4G) technology revolutionized the wireless communication with faster data speeds, improved network coverage, and security. Currently, the 5G technology is being deployed, offering significantly faster data speeds, lower latency, and the ability to connect many devices simultaneously. These advancements represent a significant leap forward from previous generations, enabling enhanced mobile broadband, improved Internet of Things (loT) connectivity, and more efficient use of network resources. The 6G technology promises to build upon these advancements, pushing the boundaries of wireless communication even further. While the 5G technology is still being rolled out globally, research and development into the 6G are rapidly evolving, with the aim of revolutionizing the way of connecting and interacting with technology.

[0071] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the components and component parts of the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiment as well as other embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is tobe distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be interpreted merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

[0072] Embodiments herein relate to a method for tracing a location of a subscriber in a network. The present disclosure address the complexities presented in tracking international in-roamer subscribers in 5G networks, the described method and system effectively overcome these challenges through an advanced approach. By utilizing an International In-Roamer Register (IIR) server that communicates with a Visited Service Communication Proxy (V-SCP), the present disclosure efficiently extracts and manages essential identifiers like a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and a Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI). The approach establishes a mapping and integrates dynamic roaming parameters, enabling precise data exchange with a Visited Gateway Mobile Location Centre (V-GMLC). The present disclosure bridges the gap left by the absence of a standardized interface between 5G GMLCs and an Unified Data Management (UDM) systems of home networks, facilitating accurate, real-time location tracking, and ensuring compliance with lawful interception requirements.

[0073] The present disclosure may use a hybrid approach to obtain an international subscriber's GPSI through a custom Hyper Text Transfer Protocol 2 (HTTP / 2) message in the Access and Mobility Data Retrieval GET process between the Visited Access and Mobility Management Function (V-AMF) and Home-UDM (H- UDM). The GPSI is may be an optional information element in the response, the HR effectuates identifier translation to the H-UDM of the international subscriber when the GPSI is not included in the Access and Mobility Data Retrieval GET response.

[0074] Hereinafter, exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0075] The various embodiments throughout the disclosure will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 1- FIG. 8.

[0076] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary network architecture (100) for implementing a system (108) for tracing location of the subscriber in the network (106), in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the network architecture (100) may include one or more computing devices or User Equipments (UEs) (104-1, 104-2... 104-N) associated with one or more users (102-1, 102-2... 102-N) in an environment. A person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that one or more users (102-1, 102-2... 102-N) may be individually referred to as the user (102) and collectively referred to as the users (102). Similarly, a person of ordinary skill in the art will understand that one or more UEs (104-1, 104-2... 104-N) may be individually referred to as the UE (104) and collectively referred to as the UEs (104). A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the terms “computing device(s)” and “user equipment” may be used interchangeably throughout the disclosure. Although three UEs (104) are depicted in FIG. 1, however, any number of the UEs (104) may be included without departing from the scope of the ongoing description.

[0077] In an embodiment, the UE (104) may include smart devices operating in a smart environment, for example, an Internet of Things (loT) system. In such an embodiment, the UE (104) may include, but is not limited to, smartphones, smart watches, smart sensors (e.g., a mechanical sensor, a thermal sensor, an electrical sensor, a magnetic sensor, etc.), networked appliances, networked peripheral devices, networked lighting system, communication devices, networked vehicle accessories, networked vehicular devices, smart accessories, tablets, smart televisions (TVs), computers, smart security systems, smart home systems, other devices for monitoring or interacting with or for the user (102) and / or entities, or any combination thereof. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the UE (104) may include, but isnot limited to, intelligent, multi-sensing, network-connected devices, that can integrate seamlessly with each other and / or with a central server or a cloud-computing system or any other device that is network-connected.

[0078] In an embodiment, the UE (104) may include, but is not limited to, a handheld wireless communication device (e.g., a mobile phone, a smart phone, a phablet device, and so on), a wearable computer device (e.g., a head-mounted display computer device, a head-mounted camera device, a wristwatch computer device, and so on), the GPSI device, a laptop computer, a tablet computer, or another type of portable computer, a media playing device, a portable gaming system, and / or any other type of computer device with wireless communication capabilities, and the like. In an embodiment, the UE (104) may include, but is not limited to, any electrical, electronic, electro-mechanical, or an equipment, or a combination of one or more of the above devices such as virtual reality (VR) devices, augmented reality (AR) devices, a laptop, a general-purpose computer, a desktop, a personal digital assistant, a tablet computer, a mainframe computer, or any other computing device. Further, the UE (104) may include one or more in-built or externally coupled accessories including, but not limited to, a visual aid device such as a camera, an audio aid, a microphone, a keyboard, and input devices for receiving input from the user (102) or an entity such as a touch pad, a touch enabled screen, an electronic pen, and the like. A person of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that the UE (104) may not be restricted to the mentioned devices and various other devices may be used.

[0079] In FIG. 1, the UE (104) may communicate with the system (108) through the network (106). In particular, the UE (104) may be communicatively coupled with the network (106). The coupling includes steps of receiving, by the network (106), a connection request from UE (104). Upon receiving the connection request, the coupling includes steps of sending, by the network (106), an acknowledgment of the connection request to the UE (104). Further, the couplingincludes steps of transmitting a plurality of signals in response to the connection request.

[0080] In an embodiment, the network (106) may include at least one of the 4G network, the 5G network, the 6G network, or the like. The network (106) may enable the UE (104) to communicate with other devices in the network architecture (100) and / or with the system (108). The network (106) may include a wireless card or some other transceiver connection to facilitate this communication. In another embodiment, the network (106) may be implemented as, or include any of a variety of different communication technologies such as a wide area network (WAN), a local area network (LAN), a wireless network, a mobile network, a Virtual Private Network (VPN), an internet, an intranet, a public network, a private network, a packet-switched network, a circuit-switched network, an ad hoc network, an infrastructure network, a Public- Switched Telephone Network (PSTN), a cable network, a cellular network, a satellite network, a fiber optic network, or some combination thereof. In another embodiment, the network (106) includes, by way of example but not limitation, at least a portion of one or more networks having one or more servers that transmit, receive, forward, generate, buffer, store, route, switch, process, or a combination thereof, etc. one or more messages, packets, signals, waves, voltage or current levels, some combination thereof, or so forth.

[0081] In another exemplary embodiment, the network architecture (100) may include a centralized server (not shown) may include or include, by way of example but not limitation, one or more of a stand-alone server, a server blade, a server rack, a bank of servers, a server farm, a hardware supporting a part of a cloud service or a system, a home server, a hardware running a virtualized server, one or more processors executing code to function as a server, one or more machines performing server-side functionality as described herein, at least a portion of any of the above, some combination thereof.

[0082] The system (108) is configured for tracing location of a subscriber in a network (106), as explained in detail in FIG. 2B.

[0083] Although FIG. 1 shows exemplary components of the network architecture (100), in other embodiments, the network architecture 100 may include fewer components, different components, differently arranged components, or additional functional components than depicted in FIG. 1. Additionally, or alternatively, one or more components of the network architecture (100) may perform functions described as being performed by one or more other components of the network architecture (100).

[0084] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary system architecture (200A) for retrieving one or more information of the international in-roamer subscriber in the network (106), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0085] In an embodiment, the system architecture (200 A) further includes a visited 4G / 5G network and a home 4G / 5G network. The Visited 4G / 5G network includes the HR server (212), a Visited-Diameter Edge Agent (V-DEA) (214A), a V- Diameter Routing Agent (V-DRA) (216), the V-GMLC (218), a Visited-Mobility Management Entity (V-MME) (222), other Visited-network elements / Visited Unified Data Management (V-UDM) (224A), the V-SCP (226A), and a Visited-Security Edge Protection Proxy (V-SEPP). A Home (H) 4G / 5G network (230) includes a Home- Diameter Edge Agent (V-DEA) (214B), a Home-Security Edge Protection Proxy (H- SEPP) (228B) and a Home-other network elements / Home Unified Data Management (H-UDM) (224B). In an embodiment, the other network elements may include an Access and mobility management function (AMF).

[0086] In an embodiment, the HR server (212), serves as a repository for storing and managing the international in-roamer subscriber identity and location information. In the Visited 4G / 5G network, the HR server (212) interacts with1 components such as the V-DEA (214A), which handles authentication and message forwarding, and the V-GMLC (218), which retrieves location information (one or more information) used for tracking the international in-roamer subscriber, while the V-SCP (226A) in the 5G networks manages the HTTP2)-based signalling, facilitating the smooth transmission of requests and responses between servers. The V-SCP (226A) in the 5G environment manages HTTP2-based signalling, analogous to the V-DRA (216) in the 4G context, ensuring efficient communication pathways. The V-SEPP (228 A) and the H-SEPP (228B) servers provide secure communication interfaces between a visited 4G / 5G network (220) and the home 4G / 5G network (230). In the home 4G / 5G network (230), a home Diameter Edge Agent (H-DEA) (214B) and the home other network elements (224B) work alongside the H-SEPP (228B) to facilitate interactions with the Home Subscriber Server (HSS) and the UDM, which store the profile and identity data of the international in-roamer subscriber. By integrating these components, the architecture enables seamless and secure location tracking, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and supporting efficient network operations for international in-roamer subscribers.

[0087] In an embodiment, the visited 4G / 5G network (220) is the network where the international in-roamer subscriber is currently located and receiving service. The visited 4G / 5G network (220) is the network that provides immediate access and connectivity to the international in-roamer subscriber.

[0088] In an embodiment, the HR server (212) may store essential international in-roamer subscriber information, including the SUPI and the GPSI. This enables the V-GMLC (218) to query the HR server (212) using either identifier, to determine current location of the international in-roamer subscriber. The HR server (212) interacts with other network elements, such as the V-SCP (226A) and the home- other network elements / H-UDM (224B), to exchange data and coordinate location tracking processes.

[0089] In an embodiment, the visited-other network elements / V -UDM (224A) may include a visited AMF (V-AMF). The visited-other network elements / V-UDM (224A) also manage the AMF registration process and store dynamic roaming data.

[0090] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212), may trace the location of the international in-roamer subscriber within the network (106). The HR server (212), operates with a selective identity translation with the home-other network elements / H- UDM (224B).

[0091] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) processes the AMF registration access request and response, which are sent in a single request by the V-SCP (226A). The V-SCP (226 A) copies both the request and response of the AMF registration, which is sent initially from the V-AMF to the home-other network elements / H-UDM (224B).

[0092] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) processes the AMF registration access and response sent in a single request by the V-SCP (226A). The V-SCP (226A) copies the AMF registration access and response sent from the V-AMF to the home- other network elements / H-UDM (224B).

[0093] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) maintains roaming data of the international in-roamer subscriber against the SUPI of the international in-roamer subscriber.

[0094] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) sends identifier translation towards the home-other network elements / H-UDM (224B) to fetch the GPSI against the SUPI in case where the GPSI is not received in the AMF registration access and response sent from the V-SCP (226A).

[0095] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) maintains mapping of the SUPI and the GPSI, if the GPSI is received from a forward request from the V-SCP (226A).In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) establishes the mapping between the SUPI and the GPSI by correlating the identifiers extracted from the first and the second customized requests. For example, the SUPI may be obtained from the Access Registration Request or Response, while the GPSI may be obtained from the Access and Mobility Data Retrieval Response. The IIR server (212) parses these requests to identify the subscriber context, and thereafter associates the extracted SUPI with the corresponding GPSI in a database record. The database record may further include a timestamp of creation and one or more dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber, thereby enabling precise linkage of the SUPI and GPSI within the roaming context. Such mappings enable the V-GMLC (218) to retrieve both the permanent and public identifiers of the subscriber for location tracing operations without exposing the SUPI directly. In an embodiment, the dynamic roaming parameters extracted by the IIR server (212) include, but are not limited to, roaming restriction information, subscribed slice identifiers (Subscribed Network Slice Selection Assistance Information (NSSAI)), access and mobility (AM) policy data, session continuity indicators, registration area information, and UE security context parameters. Additional examples of dynamic roaming parameters may include QoS policy data (e.g., Allocation and Retention Priority (ARP)), emergency service support indicators, and network-specific mobility restriction information such as allowed Radio Access Technologies (RATs) or forbidden tracking areas. These parameters are considered dynamic because they may vary depending on the roaming agreements between the home and visited networks, the capabilities of the visited network, or the subscriber’s current roaming status. By extracting and storing these parameters along with the SUPI-GPSI mapping, the IIR server (212) enables enhanced control, monitoring, and location determination for roaming subscribers.

[0096] The IIR subscriber is associated with the H-UDM (224B) of their home network. As per "5GS Roaming Guidelines," operators are unwilling to integrate the NEh interface with their H-UDM (224B). Consequently, it is necessary to develop theIIR, which receives custom HTTP2 requests from the V-SCP (226A). These requests consist of the actual AMF registration for PUT method and Access and Mobility Data Retrieval (GET method), with the request and response taking place between the V- AMF (301) and H-UDM (224B). The IIR server (212) stores aforementioned information elements for the NLh interface, enabling it to provide the NLh interface for international subscribers when roaming.

[0097] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) provides roaming data of the international in-roamer subscriber to the V-GMLC (218). This provision occurs when a lawful interception body performs a query on the V-GMLC (218) to fetch the location of the international in-roamer subscriber. This feature provides legal authorities with accurate and timely location information for international in-roamer subscribers under surveillance, complying with legal and regulatory mandates.

[0098] In an embodiment, the V-DEA (214A) is a gateway for diameter signalling between different network domains. The V-DEA (214A) is used in routing and processing diameter messages related to the international in-roamer subscriber information and location tracking. In an embodiment, the custom request incorporates the original request and response headers and bodies within a single JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) structure, preserving the essential information for processing by the IIR server (212). By forwarding this custom request to the IIR server (212), the V-DEA (214A) enables the IIR server (212) to analyze the international in-roamer subscriber interaction, extract relevant data, and update its stored information accordingly. This process is used for accurate location tracking and effective management of international in-roamer subscriber. The V-DEA (214A) forwards the response to the IIR server (212), ensuring the IIR server (212) has up-to-date information on the international in-roamer subscriber location. In the 5G, the V-DEA (214A) is complemented by the V-SCP (226A), which handles HTTP2-based signalling.

[0099] In an embodiment, the V-DRA (216) routes diameter messages within the network (106). The V-DRA (216) is connected to the V-DEA (214A), the V-GMLC (218) and the V-MME (222). The V-DRA (216) is responsible for directing diameter messages between the visited 4G / 5G network (220) and the home 4G / 5G network (230), ensuring efficient communication and data exchange. The V-DRA (216) may determine the appropriate destination for incoming diameter messages based on their content and the network topology. The V-DRA (216) may distribute diameter messages across multiple network elements to optimize performance and avoid congestion. The V-DRA (216) may handle errors and exceptions that may occur during message processing and routing.

[0100] In an embodiment, the V-GMLC (218) is responsible for location- based services within the network. The V-GMLC (218) may be used in tracking the location of the international in-roamer subscriber and providing the necessary information to the home 4G / 5G network (230). The V-GMLC (218) handles the location information of the international in-roamer subscribers. The present disclosure supports emergency services and lawful interception by providing real-time location data of the international in-roamer subscriber. The V-GMLC (218) queries the HR server (212) to retrieve international in-roamer subscriber location information. In the 5G, it involves the AMF registration information retrieval via a standardized interface to fetch the AMF identity and other related data. The V-GMLC (218) interacts with the HR server (212) to retrieve the location information of the international in-roamer subscriber based on the SUPI or the GPSI. The V-GMLC (218) may determine the approximate location of the international in-roamer subscriber based on the serving cell ID and other network information. The V-GMLC (218) may interact with the HR server (212) to retrieve additional subscriber information, such as the SUPI and the GPSI, which can be used for more precise location tracking. The V-GMLC (218) may generate a response containing the location information of the international in-roamer subscriber, which is then sent back to the requesting entity (e.g., the home 4G / 5G network (230)).The V-GMLC (218) may interact with other network elements, such as the AMF and the V-SEPP (228A), to coordinate location-based services and may provide accurate tracking. By effectively tracking the one or more information such as the location of the international in-roamer subscriber and providing this information to the home 4G / 5G network (230), the V-GMLC (218) enables various location-based services and supports the overall management of international in-roaming subscribers.

[0101] In an embodiment, the V-MME (222) is responsible for managing mobile device registration, bearer activation / deactivation, and mobility management. The V-MME (222) communicates with the V-DEA (214 A) to update the HSS of the location of the international in-roamer subscriber. These updates provide the international in-roamer subscriber which can receive services seamlessly, regardless of their location.

[0102] In an embodiment, the V-SCP (226A) plays a role in routing messages between the visited 4G / 5G network (220) and the home 4G / 5G network (230). The V- SCP (226A) handles the exchange of the diameter messages, including those related to the international in-roamer subscriber location tracking. The V-SCP (226A) may be used in the 5G network, performing similar functions to the V-DRA (216) in the 4G but adapted for HTTP2.

[0103] In an embodiment, the V-SCP (226A) creates a copy of the AMF registration for the access and the access and mobility subscription data retrieval request / response for the international in-roamer subscriber and forwards the same to the IIR server (212) in a single message.

[0104] In an embodiment, the V-SCP (226 A) creates a new request with an authority, path, scheme and method headers with same values as the AMF registration for the access. Then the SCP appends the original request and response headers to the custom request, prefixing them with a “request ” and a “response ”. The resultingheader names will be request_path, request scheme, request method, and response status.

[0105] In an embodiment, the V-SCP (226A) constructs a new request by setting the authority, path, scheme, and method headers to match those used in the AMF registration access request. The V-SCP (226A) then appends the original request and response headers, prefixed with the “request_” and the “response_” respectively, to this new request. Specifically, the headers added include request_path, request scheme, request method, response status, and response content-type, allowing for a comprehensive transfer of both request and response data from the AMF registration access request to the IIR server (212). This approach may support the encapsulation of all relevant information within the new request, facilitating seamless communication and data processing by the HR server (212).

[0106] In an embodiment, the V-SEPP (228A) provides security and protection functions at the edge of the network (106). It enforces security policies, protects against unauthorized access, and may support the integrity of communications. The V-SEPP (228A) is involved in routing messages between the visited 4G / 5G network (220) and the home 4G / 5G network (230), ensuring that they are transmitted securely.

[0107] In an embodiment, H-DEA (214B) securely facilitates data exposure from the home 4G / 5G network (230) to authorized entities, ensuring that data privacy and security protocols are maintained.

[0108] In an embodiment, the H-SEPP (228B) serves as a security gateway, managing secure communication between the home 4G / 5G network (230) and the visited 4G / 5G network (220), thereby safeguarding sensitive subscriber information during international roaming.

[0109] In an embodiment, the home-other network elements / H-UDM (224B) is responsible for managing and storing information of the international in-roamersubscriber, including subscription profiles and authentication data, and may be used in identity translation and providing necessary data for the international in-roamer subscriber.

[0110] In an implementation, when the international in-roamer subscriber attaches to the network (106), the international in- roamer subscriber initiates the AMF access registration request with the UDM system of the home 4G / 5G network (230) through the H-SEPP (228B). The V-SCP (226A) of the visited 4G / 5G network (220) copies and forwards both the AMF access registration request and response to the IIR server (212).

[0111] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) parses the forwarded and copied requests and responses to store the dynamic roaming data of the international in- roamer subscriber, including Global Unique AMF Identifier (GUAM!), etc., against the SUPI of the international in-roamer subscriber.

[0112] In an embodiment, the V-GMLC (218) may perform the AMF access registration information retrieval from the IIR server (212) against the SUPI or the GPSI. The IIR then provides the stored information, such as the GUAMI, etc, which helps in locating the international in-roamer subscriber.

[0113] The present disclosure introduces a selective identifier translation mechanism towards the home-other network elements / H-UDM (224B). In scenarios where the IIR server (212) processes copied Access and Mobility (AM) subscription data retrieval requests and responses, the IIR server (212) attempts to retrieve the GPSI against the SUPI. If the GPSI is obtained, it is stored in the GPSI-to-SUPI mapping data. If the GPSI is absent, the IIR server (112) invokes an identifier translation request towards the home-other network elements / H-UDM (224B) to fetch the GPSI using the SUPI received in the copied AM subscription data retrieval request. The IIR server(212) updates the GPSI-to-SUPI mapping data upon receiving a response from the identifier translation.

[0114] The disclosure operates under an agreement, as part of the roaming agreement with partner networks, it is agreed that the IIR server (212) may invoke identifier translation requests towards the home-other network elements / H-UDM (224B) to obtain the GPSI against the SUPI of international in-roamer subscribers. This hybrid approach uses both the copied AM subscription data retrieval request and response messages and conditional identifier translation invocations if the GPSI is absent in the copied messages. The HR server (212) maintains the GPSI-to-SUPI mapping when it receives a response to the identifier translation request, if invoked.

[0115] FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary block diagram 200B of the system (108) for tracing location of a subscriber in a network (106), in accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 2B is explained in conjunction with FIG. 1 and FIG. 2A. In an embodiment, the network may be, for example, the 4G network, the 5G network, the 6G network, and the like.

[0116] In an embodiment, the system (108) may include the HR server (212). The HR server (212) may include one or more processor(s) 202. The one or more processor(s) 202 may be implemented as one or more microprocessors, microcomputers, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, central processing units, logic circuitries, and / or any devices that process data based on operational instructions. Among other capabilities, the one or more processor(s) 202 may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in a memory 204 of the system 108. The memory 204 may be configured to store one or more computer-readable instructions or routines in a non-transitory computer readable storage medium, which may be fetched and executed to create or share data packets over a network service. The memory 204 may include any non-transitory storage device including, for example, volatile memory such as a Random-Access Memory (RAM), or a non-volatile memory such as an Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), a flash memory, and the like.

[0117] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) may include an interface(s) 206. The interface(s) 206 may include a variety of interfaces, for example, interfaces for data input and output devices (I / O), storage devices, and the like. The interface(s) 206 may facilitate communication through the system 108. The interface(s) 206 may also provide a communication pathway for one or more components of the system 108. Examples of such components include, but are not limited to, a processing engine 208 and a database 210.

[0118] In an embodiment, the processing engine (208) is configured to receive a request from the V-GMLC (218) in the visited network to retrieve location information for the international in-roamer subscriber. The request is typically triggered when the international in-roamer subscriber is registered or updated within the visited network. The V-GMLC (218), acting as the intermediary, identifies that the subscriber is the international in-roamer and forwards the location information request to the IIR server (212).

[0119] In an embodiment, a home network (referred to as H network) refers to the network that the international in-roamer subscriber belongs to and is registered with. This is typically the network operated by the home service provider of the international in-roamer subscriber. Further, a visited network (referred to as V network) refers to the network that the international in-roamer subscriber is currently roaming in. The visited network provides the international in-roamer subscriber with access to services while they are away from their home network. In the context of international in-roaming, the home network is the network in the home country of the international in-roamer subscriber, while the visited network is the network in the country where the international in-roamer subscriber is currently located.

[0120] In an embodiment, the processing engine (208) is configured to process the request to retrieve the identity and associated information of the international inroamer subscriber. This involves extracting the necessary data from the request, such as the SUPI or the GPSI. The IIR server uses this data to query the database (210), which stores dynamic roaming information ensuring that the IIR server can accurately identify and associate the correct information of the international in-roamer subscriber before proceeding with the retrieval of location data.

[0121] In an embodiment, the processing engine (208) is configured to process the request after the IIR server retrieves the location information of the international in-roamer subscriber from a home-other network elements / H-UDM. This is achieved through a secure interface between the IIR server and the home-other network elements / H-UDM. The IIR server sends a request to the home-other network elements / H-UDM, seeking specific details about the current location of the international in-roamer subscriber. The home-other network elements / H-UDM, which maintains the profile and location data of the international in-roamer subscriber, responds with the necessary information.

[0122] In an embodiment, the processing engine (208) is configured to respond to the V-GMLC with the retrieved location information. The response includes information required to accurately pinpoint the location of the international in-roamer subscriber. The location information is used for supporting the operations of the network (106), including call routing, session management, and compliance with regulatory requirements for location tracking. By providing this data to the V-GMLC, the IIR server facilitates seamless communication and supports the location tracking requirements for international in-roamer subscribers.

[0123] In an embodiment, the processing engine (208) may be implemented as a combination of hardware and programming (for example, programmable instructions) to implement one or more functionalities of the processing engine (208).In the examples described herein, such combinations of hardware and programming may be implemented in several different ways. For example, the programming for the processing engine (208) may be processor-executable instructions stored on a non- transitory machine-readable storage medium and the hardware for the processing engine (208) may include a processing resource (for example, one or more processors), to execute such instructions. In the present examples, the machine-readable storage medium may store instructions that, when executed by the processing resource, implement the processing engine (208). In such examples, the system (108) may include the machine-readable storage medium storing the instructions and the processing resource to execute the instructions, or the machine-readable storage medium may be separate but accessible to the system (108) and the processing resource. In other examples, the processing engine (208) may be implemented by electronic circuitry.

[0124] In an embodiment, the database (210) may include data that may be either stored or generated as a result of functionalities implemented by any of the components of the processing engine (208).

[0125] In an embodiment the system (108) for tracing the location of the subscriber within the network (106). The system (108) includes the IIR server (212). The HR server (212) receives a first and a second customized request from the V-SCP (226A). Upon receiving these requests, the HR server (212) parses them to extract the SUPI and various dynamic roaming parameters pertinent to the subscriber. These extracted parameters and the SUPI are stored in the database (210). The IIR server (212) determines the GPSI corresponding to the extracted the SUPI as obtained from the second customized request, establishes the mapping between the SUPI and the GPSI, and stores this mapping in the database (210). The HR server (212) provides the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the established SUPI-GPSI mapping to the V- GMLC (218). For example, the present disclosure may allow the V-GMLC (218) toeffectively trace the subscriber's location. For instance, when the subscriber roams into a foreign network, the IIR server (212) processes the requests to extract the SUPI and dynamic parameters, determines the GPSI, and maps these identifiers to enable precise location tracking, which maybe supporting enhanced location-based services.

[0126] In an embodiment the system (108) includes the first customized request includes the AMF access registration request and the AMF access registration response exchanged between the V- AMF (301) and the H-UDM (224B). The second customized request encompasses an Access and Mobility Data Retrieval request and an Access and Mobility Data Retrieval response, which are similarly exchanged between the V-AMF (301) and the H-UDM (224B).

[0127] In an embodiment the system (108) includes the GPSI is not present in the second customized request. In such cases, the HR server (212) is configured to initiate an identifier translation request directed to the H-UDM (224B) to procure the GPSI for the extracted SUPI. The IIR server (212) receives an identifier translation response from the H-UDM (224B). The HR server (212) includes the obtained GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI.

[0128] In an embodiment the subscriber data includes additional locationidentifying parameters. These parameters include the AMF instance identifier, a deregistration callback Uniform Resource Identifier (URI), a global unique AMF identifier, the radio access technology type, and, optionally, a permanent equipment identifier. These elements may improve the system (108) capability to accurately identify and manage subscriber locations and related information, improving network reliability and service delivery.

[0129] In an embodiment the system (108) includes functionality for enabling the tracing of a subscriber's location by configuring the HR server (212) to perform specific operations. The HR server (212) receives an access registration informationretrieval request from the V-GMLC (218). The access registration information retrieval request includes either the SUPI or the GPSI. The IIR server (212) then queries the database using the received SUPI or GPSI to retrieve the stored dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber. The IIR server (212) transmits the access registration information retrieval response, which contains the retrieved dynamic roaming parameters, back to the V-GMLC (218). This response enables the V-GMLC (218) to trace the subscriber's location using the provided dynamic roaming parameters.

[0130] In an embodiment the IIR server (212) is configured to transmit an error response to the V-GMLC (218) if the access registration information retrieval request is based on the GPSI for which there is no corresponding SUPI stored in the database. The present disclosure may support the prompt notification of the V-GMLC (218) regarding invalid or incomplete requests.

[0131] In an embodiment the IIR server (212) is configured to update the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the existing mapping in the database upon receiving new or updated information related to the subscriber.

[0132] FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram (300) of a method for retrieving one or more information of an international in-roamer subscriber in the network (106), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0133] The following steps outline the multi-layered approach for the AMF registration access request for an international subscriber.

[0134] At 302: The process initiates with an AMF registration access request sent by a V-AMF (301) to a V-SCP (226 A). The AMF registration access request aims to discover the requested Network Function (NF) based on parameters such as NF type, Data Network Name (DNN), or slice information to refine the search. This step is triggered when an international in-roamer subscriber attempts a location update or attachment in the network (106), prompting the V-AMF (301) to send an AMFregistration access request to the home-other network elements / H-UDM (224B) via the V-SCP (226A). The V-SCP (226A), may upon receiving the registration request, recognizes that the international in-roamer subscriber is international based on the Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) identifier. The V-SCP (226A) decides to store and route this request.

[0135] At 304: The AMF registration access request is sent by the V-SCP (226A) to the V-Security Edge Protection Proxy (V-SEPP) (288A). The V-SCP (226A) forwards the AMF registration request to the V-SEPP (288A) based on a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI).

[0136] At 306: The AMF registration access request is sent by the V-SEPP (288A) to the H-SEPP (288B).

[0137] At 308: Upon receiving the AMF registration access request, the H- SEPP (288B) forwards the AMF registration request to a Home Service Communication Proxy (H-SCP) (226B).

[0138] At 310: The AMF registration access request is sent by the H-SCP (226B) to a H-UDM (224B). This routing may support the delivery of the AMF registration access request to the appropriate network functions responsible for managing the profile of the international in-roamer subscriber.

[0139] At 312: The AMF registration access response is sent by the H-UDM (224B) to the H-SCP (226B). The H-UDM (224B), which maintains the international in-roamer subscriber profile, processes the incoming request. The H-UDM (224B) then prepares an AMF registration response based on the profile data of the international inroamer subscriber.

[0140] At 314: The AMF registration access response is sent by the H-SCP (226B) to the H-SEPP (288B).

[0141] At 316: The AMF registration access response is sent by the H-SEPP (288B) to the V-SEPP (288A).

[0142] At 318: The AMF registration access response is sent by the V-SEPP (288A) to the V-SCP (226A).

[0143] At 320: The AMF registration access response is sent by the V-SCP (226A) to the V-AMF (301), completing the initial registration process.

[0144] At 322: The AMF request / response (the AMF registration access request / AMF registration access response) is copied in a PUT request and is sent from the V-SCP (226A) to the UR server (212). In parallel, the V-SCP (226A) creates a customized request containing the actual AMF registration request and response messages that occurred between the V-AMF (301) and the H-UDM (224B). This customized request is sent to the UR server (212) to store the necessary information of the international in-roamer subscriber. The V-SCP (226A) sends the PUT request to the IIR server (212) to record and maintain data about the international in-roamer subscriber.

[0145] At 324: A PUT response is sent from the IIR server (212) to the V-SCP (226A). The IIR server (212) parses the customized request to extract essential subscriber information such as the SUPI. The IIR server (212) stores this information in its database and sends a PUT response back to the V-SCP (226A), acknowledging the storage of the roaming data of the international in-roamer subscriber.

[0146] FIG. 4 illustrates another exemplary flow diagram (400) of the method for retrieving one or more information of an international in-roamer subscriber in the network (106), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0147] The following steps outline an access and mobility subscription data retrieval call flow of the international in-roamer subscriber. An Access and Mobility(AM) data retrieval request is initiated by the V-AMF (301) towards the H-UDM (224B)

[0148] At 402: The AM data retrieval request is routed by the V-AMF (301) to the V-SCP (226A). The V-SCP (226A) determines that the subscriber is an international roamer based on a Public Land Mobile Network (PLMN) of the international in-roamer subscriber. The V-SCP (226A) may store the AM data retrieval request sent to the home 4G / 5G network (230).

[0149] At 404: The AM data retrieval request is routed by the V-SCP (226A) to the V-SEPP (228A) based on the SUPI.

[0150] At 406: The AM data retrieval request is routed by the V-SEPP (228A) to the H-SEPP (228B). The V-SEPP (228A) is on the edge of the visited 4G / 5G network (220) that is communicating with the H-SEPP (228B) of the home 4G / 5G network (230) of the international in-roamer subscriber.

[0151] At 408: The H-SEPP (228B) routes the AM data retrieval request to the H-SCP (226B).

[0152] At 410: The H-SCP (226B) delivers the AM data retrieval request to the H-UDM (224B).

[0153] At 412: The H-UDM (224B) responds to the H-SCP (226B) with an AM data retrieval response. The H-UDM (224B) has subscription data, and the H- UDM (224B) further processes the incoming AM data GET request and sends the response to the H-SCP (226B)

[0154] At 414: The AM data retrieval response goes from the H-SCP (226B) to the H-SEPP (228B).

[0155] At 416: The AM data retrieval response goes from the H-SEPP (228B) to the V-SEPP (228A).

[0156] At 418: The AM data retrieval response goes from the V-SEPP (228) to the V-SCP (226A).

[0157] At 420: The AM data retrieval response goes from the V-SCP (226A) to the V-AMF (301).

[0158] At 422: The AM data retrieval request / AM data retrieval response is copied in a GET request and is sent from the V-SCP (226 A) to the HR server (212). The V-SCP (226A) creates a new customized request of the AM data retrieval request / AM data retrieval response, which has headers and data actual request and response messages (already happened between the V-AMF (301) and the H-UDM (224B)).

[0159] At 424: A GET response is sent from the HR server (212) to the V-SCP (226A). The HR server (212) will parse the copied request / response and check if there is the GPSI in the copied response (GPSI is optional). If GPSI is present in the copied response, then the HR server (212) stores the GPSI to the SUPI mapping and responds to the V-SCP (226A). If the GPSI is not present, then the HR server (212) may invoke identifier translation request as described in FIG. 5 to fetch the GPSI for the SUPI.

[0160] FIG. 5 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram (500) of the method for retrieving the one or more information of the international in-roamer subscriber in the network (106), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0161] The following steps outline the identifier translation request to fetch GPSI for SUPI from the home-other network elements / H-UDM (224B).

[0162] At 502: The identifier translation request by the HR server (212) is routed by the HR server (212) to the V-SCP (226A). The HR server (212) will initiatean identifier translation request only if the GPSI is not found in the copied Access and Mobility (AM) Subscription Data Retrieval response. This request aims to retrieve the GPSI associated with the Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI).

[0163] At 504: The identifier translation request by the HR server (212) is routed by the V-SCP (226A) to V-SEPP (228A).

[0164] At 506: The V-SEPP (228A) routes the same request from the visited 4G / 5G network (220) to the H-SEPP (228B) of the home 4G / 5G network (230).

[0165] At 508: The H-SEPP (228B) routes the request to H-SCP (226B).

[0166] At 510: The H-SCP (226B) finally delivers the identifier translation request to a H-UDM (224B).

[0167] At 512: The H-UDM (224B) processes the identifier translation request and responds to the H-SCP (226B) with an identifier translation request with GPSI corresponding to the SUPI. The identifier translation response goes from the H-UDM (224B) to the H-SCP (226B).

[0168] At 514: The identifier translation response goes from the H-SCP (226B) to the H-SEPP (228B).

[0169] At 516: The identifier translation response goes from the H-SEPP (228B) to the V-SEPP (228A).

[0170] At 518: The identifier translation response goes from the V-SEPP (228) to the V-SCP (226A).

[0171] At 520: The identifier translation response goes from the V-SCP (226A) to the HR server (212). On receiving the response, the HR server (212) will maintainthe GPSI against the SUPI, ensuring accurate tracking of the international in-roamer subscriber location.

[0172] FIG. 6 illustrates another exemplary flow diagram (600) of the method for retrieving one or more information of an international in-roamer subscriber in the network (106), in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0173] The following steps outline the AMF access registration information retrieval from IIR server (212).

[0174] At 602: An AMF access registration information retrieval request is sent from a V-GMLC (218) to a V-SCP (226A) to retrieve the AMF access registration information for an international in-roamer subscriber.

[0175] At 604: The AMF access registration information retrieval request is sent from the V-SCP (226A) to the IIR server (212). When the HR server (212) receives the AMF access registration information retrieval request against the Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI), the HR server (212) checks the database (210) and fetches the stored one or more parameters against the SUPI if the SUPI / GPSI comes in the AMF access registration information retrieval request.

[0176] At 606: An AMF access registration information retrieval response is sent from the HR server (212) to the V-SCP (226A). The IIR server (212) frames the AMF access registration information retrieval response with the help of the fetched stored one or more parameters. The AMF access registration information retrieval response may include one or more parameters such as Globally Unique AMF Identifier (GUAM!), radio access technology type etc.

[0177] At 608: The AMF access registration information retrieval response is sent from the V-SCP (226A) to the V-GMUC (218).

[0178] In an embodiment, the present disclosure relates to a method for retrieving one or more information of an international in-roamer subscriber in a network (106). The method includes of receiving, by the IIR server (212), at least one request from the V-GMLC (218). The method includes of extracting, by the IIR server (212), one or more parameters associated with the at least one received request. The method includes of retrieving, by the IIR server (212), the one or more information of the international in-roamer subscriber based on the one or more extracted parameters and the method includes of transmitting, by the IIR server (212), the one or more retrieved information to the V-GMLC (218).

[0179] FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary flow diagram of a method for tracing the location of the IIR subscriber in the network, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0180] At step 702, of the method (700), the IIR server (212) receives the first customized request and the second customized request from the V-SCP (226A).

[0181] In an embodiment, the first customized request received by the IIR server (212) includes the AMF access registration request and response exchanged between the V-AMF (301) and the H-UDM (224B). The second customized request consists of the Access and Mobility Data Retrieval request and response, also exchanged between the V-AMF (301) and the H-UDM (224B).

[0182] At step 704 of the method (700), the IIR server (212) parses the first and second customized requests. This parsing process involves extracting the SUPI and one or more dynamic roaming parameters that are associated with the subscriber.

[0183] In an embodiment, the dynamic roaming parameters extracted by the IIR server (212) include additional location-identifying parameters. These parameters consist of the AMF instance identifier, deregistration callback URI, global uniqueAMF identifier, radio access technology type, and, optionally, the permanent equipment identifier.

[0184] At step 706 of the method (700), the IIR server (212) stores the extracted SUPI and the dynamic roaming parameters in the database.

[0185] At step 708 of the method (700), the IIR server (212) determines the GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI from the second customized request. The IIR server (212) establishes a mapping between the SUPI and the GPSI, which is then stored in the database.

[0186] In an embodiment, if the GPSI is not present in the second customized request, the IIR server (212) initiates an identifier translation request to the H-UDM (224B) to obtain the GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI. Upon receiving the identifier translation response, which includes the GPSI, the IIR server (212) establishes and stores the mapping between the extracted SUPI and the obtained GPSI in the database.

[0187] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) transmits an error response to the V-GMUC (218) if an access registration information retrieval request is received based on the GPSI for which the corresponding SUPI is not stored in the database.

[0188] In an embodiment, the IIR server (212) updates the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping in the database upon receiving updated information related to the subscriber.

[0189] At step 710 by the method (700), the IIR server (212) provides the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping to the V-GMUC (218).

[0190] In an embodiment, a process of enabling subscriber location tracing involves the IIR server (212) receiving an access registration information retrievalrequest from the V-GMLC (218). The access registration information retrieval request includes either the SUPI or the GPSI. The HR server (212) then queries its database to fetch the stored dynamic roaming parameters corresponding to the subscriber. Once retrieved, the HR server (212) transmits an access registration information retrieval response, containing these parameters, back to the V-GMLC (218). This allows the V- GMLC to effectively trace the subscriber location using the dynamic roaming parameters provided.

[0191] In an embodiment, transmitting, by the HR server (212), the error response to the V-GMLC (218) when the access registration information retrieval request is based on the GPSI for which the corresponding SUPI is not stored in the database.

[0192] In an embodiment, if the HR server (212) receives an access registration information retrieval request from the V-GMLC (218) based on the GPSI for which the corresponding SUPI is not stored in the database. The HR server (212) transmits an error response to the V-GMLC (218).

[0193] FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary computer system 800 in which or with which embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. As shown in FIG. 8, the computer system 800 may include an external storage device 810, a bus 820, a main memory 830, a read-only memory 840, a mass storage device 850, communication port(s) 860, and a processor 870. A person skilled in the art will appreciate that the computer system 800 may include more than one processor and communication ports. The processor 870 may include various modules associated with embodiments of the present disclosure. The communication port(s) 860 may be any of an RS-232 port for use with a modem-based dialup connection, a 10 / 100 Ethernet port, a Gigabit or 10 Gigabit port using copper or fiber, a serial port, a parallel port, or other existing or future ports. The communication port(s) 860 may be chosen depending ona network, such a Local Area Network (LAN), Wide Area Network (WAN), or any network to which the computer system 800 connects.

[0194] The main memory 830 may be Random- Access Memory (RAM), or any other dynamic storage device commonly known in the art. The read-only memory 840 may be any static storage device(s) e.g., but not limited to, a Programmable Read Only Memory (PROM) chips for storing static information e.g., start-up or Basic Input / Output System (BIOS) instructions for the processor 870. The mass storage device 850 may be any current or future mass storage solution, which can be used to store information and / or instructions. The mass storage device 850 includes, but is not limited to, Parallel Advanced Technology Attachment (PATA) or Serial Advanced Technology Attachment (SATA) hard disk drives or solid-state drives (internal or external, e.g., having a Universal Serial Bus (USB) and / or Firewire interfaces), one or more optical discs, a Redundant Array of Independent Disks (RAID) storage, e.g. an array of disks.

[0195] The bus 820 communicatively couples the processor 870 with the other memory, storage, and communication blocks. The bus 820 may be, e.g. a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCI) / PCI Extended (PCLX) bus, Small Computer System Interface (SCSI), the USB, or the like, for connecting expansion cards, drives, and other subsystems as well as other buses, such a front side bus (FSB), which connects the processor 870 to the computer system 800.

[0196] Optionally, operator and administrative interfaces, e.g. a display, keyboard, joystick, and a cursor control device, may also be coupled to the bus 820 to support direct operator interaction with the computer system 800. Other operators and administrative interfaces can be provided through network connections connected through the communication port(s) 860. The components described above are meant only to exemplify various possibilities. In no way should the aforementioned exemplary computer system 800 limit the scope of the present disclosure.

[0197] In an exemplary embodiment, the system (108) for tracing location of the subscriber in the network (106) is disclosed. The system (108) includes the IIR server (212), configured to receive the first customized request and the second customized request from the V-SCP (226A). The system (108) includes parse the first customized request and the second customized request to extract the SUPI, and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber. The system (108) includes store the extracted SUPI and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters in a database. The system (108) includes determining the GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI within the second customized request and establishing a mapping between the extracted SUPI and the determined GPSI and storing the mapping in the database. The system (108) includes provide the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the established mapping to the V-GMUC (2188) to enable tracing the location of the subscriber.

[0198] In an exemplary embodiment, a computer program product includes a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute a method for tracing location of a subscriber in a network is described. The method (700) includes receiving, by the IIR server (212), a first customized request and a second customized request from the V-SCP (226A). The method includes parsing, by the IIR server (212), the first customized request and the second customized request to extract the SUPI and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber. The method (700) includes storing, by the IIR server (212), the extracted SUPI and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters in a database. The (700)includes determining, by the IIR server (212), the GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI within the second customized request and establishing a mapping between the extracted SUPI and the determined GPSI and storing the mapping in the database, The method (700) includes providing, by the IIR server (212), the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping to the V-GMUC (218) to enable tracing the location of the subscriber.

[0199] While the foregoing describes various embodiments of the invention, other and further embodiments of the invention may be devised without departing from the basic scope thereof. The scope of the invention is determined by the claims that follow. The invention is not limited to the described embodiments, versions or examples, which are included to enable a person having ordinary skill in the art to make and use the invention when combined with information and knowledge available to the person having ordinary skill in the art.

[0200] The method and system of the present disclosure may be implemented in a number of ways. For example, the methods and systems of the present disclosure may be implemented by software, hardware, firmware, or any combination of software, hardware, and firmware. The above-described order for the steps of the method is for illustration only, and the steps of the method of the present disclosure are not limited to the order specifically described above unless specifically stated otherwise. Further, in some embodiments, the present disclosure may also be embodied as programs recorded in a recording medium, the programs including machine-readable instructions for implementing the methods according to the present disclosure. Thus, the present disclosure also covers a recording medium storing a program for executing the method according to the present disclosure.

[0201] While considerable emphasis has been placed herein on the preferred embodiments, it will be appreciated that many embodiments can be made and that many changes can be made in the preferred embodiments without departing from the principles of the disclosure. These and other changes in the preferred embodiments of the disclosure will be apparent to those skilled in the art from the disclosure herein, whereby it is to be distinctly understood that the foregoing descriptive matter is to be implemented merely as illustrative of the disclosure and not as a limitation.

[0202] The present disclosure offers the method(700) and system (108) for tracing location of a subscriber in a network. The advancements overcomes thelimitation in accurately tracing the location of roaming subscribers within a telecommunications network. Traditional systems may face difficulties in maintaining up-to-date and precise location information due to fragmented or incomplete identifier mapping. By using the IIR server (212) to parse customized requests, extract and store identifiers, and map the SUPI the GPSI, the system (108) may provide comprehensive and precise tracking capabilities. This approach addresses issues related to identifier management, incomplete information, and efficient data retrieval. The present disclosure may improve the effectiveness of subscriber location tracing.ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE

[0203] The present disclosure described herein above has several technical advantages including, but not limited to, the realization of the system and the method where:

[0204] By storing both the Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and the Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI) information, the International In-roamer register (IIR) node can provide more accurate location tracking, especially in cases where the GPSI might not be readily available or might change over time;

[0205] The IIR server centralizes international in-roamer subscriber information, making it easier for the Gateway Mobile Location Centre (GMLC) to retrieve the data for location tracking. This can reduce latency and improve overall performance; and

[0206] By storing subscriber information within the IIR server, the home network can potentially reduce the amount of sensitive data that needs to be transmitted over the network, enhancing security and privacy.

Claims

We claim:

1. A method (700) for tracing location of a subscriber in a network (106), the method (700) comprising: receiving, by an international in- roamer register (HR) server (212), a first customized request and a second customized request from a visited Service Communication Proxy (V-SCP) (226A); parsing, by the HR server (212), the first customized request and the second customized request to extract a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber; storing, by the HR server (212), the extracted SUPI and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters in a database; determining, by the HR server (212), a Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI) corresponding to the extracted SUPI within the second customized request and establishing a mapping between the extracted SUPI and the determined GPSI and storing the mapping in the database; and providing, by the HR server (212), the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping to a Visited Gateway Mobile Uocation Centre (V-GMLC) (218) to enable tracing the location of the subscriber.

2. The method (700) as claimed in claim 1, wherein: the first customized request includes an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) access registration request and an AMF access registration response exchanged between a visited AMF (V-AMF) (301) and a Home-Unified Data Management (H-UDM) (224B); andthe second customized request includes an Access and Mobility Data Retrieval request and an Access and Mobility Data Retrieval response exchanged between the V-AMF (301) and the H-UDM (224B).

3. The method (700) as claimed in claim 1, wherein upon determining that the GPSI is not present in the second customized request: initiating, by the HR server (212), an identifier translation request sent to the H-UDM (224B) to obtain the GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI; receiving, by the HR server (212), an identifier translation response from the H-UDM (224B), wherein the identifier translation response comprises the GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI; and establishing, by the HR server (212), the mapping between the extracted SUPI and the obtained GPSI of the subscriber and storing the mapping in the database.

4. The method (700) as claimed in claim 1 , wherein the one or more dynamic roaming parameters comprises additional location identifying parameters including an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) instance identifier, deregistration callback Uniform Resource Identifier (URI), global unique AMF identifier, radio access technology type, and, optionally, a permanent equipment identifier.

5. The method (700) as claimed in claim 1, wherein enabling the tracing of the location of the subscriber comprises: receiving, by the HR server (212) from the V-GMLC (218), an access registration information retrieval request for the subscriber, wherein the access registration information retrieval request includes the SUPI or the GPSI;querying, by the IIR server (212), the database to fetch the stored dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber; transmitting, by the IIR server (212), an access registration information retrieval response comprising the retrieved dynamic roaming parameters to the V- GMLC (218), to enable the V-GMLC (218) to trace the location of the subscriber based on the dynamic roaming parameters.

6. The method (700) as claimed in claim 5, further comprising: transmitting, by the IIR server (212), an error response to the V-GMLC (218) when the access registration information retrieval request is based on the GPSI for which a corresponding SUPI is not stored in the database.

7. The method (700) as claimed in claim 3, further comprising: updating, by the IIR server (212), the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping in the database upon receiving updated information related to the subscriber.

8. A system (108) for tracing location of a subscriber in a network (106), the system (108) comprising: an international in-roamer register (IIR) server (212), configured to: receive a first customized request and a second customized request from a visited Service Communication Proxy (V-SCP) (226A); parse the first customized request and the second customized request to extract a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber;store the extracted SUPI and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters in a database; determine a Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI) corresponding to the extracted SUPI within the second customized request and establishing a mapping between the extracted SUPI and the determined GPSI and storing the mapping in the database; and provide the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the established mapping to a Visited Gateway Mobile Uocation Centre (V-GMLC) (218) to enable tracing the location of the subscriber.

9. The system (108) as claimed in claim 8, wherein: the first customized request includes an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) access registration request and an AMF access registration response exchanged between a visited AMF (V-AMF) (301) and a Home-Unified Data Management (H-UDM) (224B); and the second customized request includes an Access and Mobility Data Retrieval request and an Access and Mobility Data Retrieval response exchanged between the V-AMF (301) and the H-UDM (224B).

10. The system (108) as claimed in claim 8, wherein upon determining that the GPSI is not present in the second customized request, the HR server (212) is configured to: initiate an identifier translation request that is sent to the H-UDM (224B) to obtain the GPSI for the extracted SUPI;receive an identifier translation response from the H-UDM (224B), wherein the identifier translation response comprises the obtained GPSI corresponding to the extracted SUPI; and establish the mapping between the extracted SUPI and the obtained GPSI of the subscriber and storing the mapping in the database.

11. The system (108) as claimed in claim 8, wherein the subscriber data comprises additional location identifying parameters include an Access and Mobility Management Function (AMF) instance identifier, deregistration callback Uniform Resource Identifier (URI), global unique AMF identifier, radio access technology type, and, optionally, a permanent equipment identifier.

12. The system (108) as claimed in claim 8, wherein for enabling the tracing of the location of the subscriber, the UR server (212) is configured to: receive, from the V-GMLC (218), an access registration information retrieval request for the subscriber, wherein the access registration information retrieval request includes the SUPI or the GPSI; query the database based on the received SUPI or GPSI, to fetch the stored dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber; and transmit an access registration information retrieval response comprising the retrieved dynamic roaming parameters to the V-GMLC (218), to enable the V- GMLC (218) to trace the location of the subscriber based on the dynamic roaming parameters.

13. The system (108) as claimed in claim 12, wherein the UR server (212) transmits an error response to the V-GMLC (218) when the access registration informationretrieval request is based on the GPSI for which a corresponding SUPI is not stored in the database.

14. The system (108) as claimed in claim 10, wherein the IIR server (212) updates the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping in the database upon receiving updated information related to the subscriber.

15. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer-readable medium comprising instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the one or more processors to execute a method (700) for tracing location of a subscriber in a network (106), the method (700) comprising: receiving, by an international in- roamer register (IIR) server (212), a first customized request and a second customized request from a visited Service Communication Proxy (V-SCP) (226A); parsing, by the IIR server (212), the first customized request and the second customized request to extract a Subscription Permanent Identifier (SUPI) and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters associated with the subscriber; storing, by the IIR server (212), the extracted SUPI and the one or more dynamic roaming parameters in a database; determining, by the IR server (212), a Generic Public Subscription Identifier (GPSI) corresponding to the extracted SUPI within the second customized request and establishing a mapping between the extracted SUPI and the determined GPSI and storing the mapping in the database; and providing, by the IIR server (212), the stored dynamic roaming parameters and the mapping to a Visited Gateway Mobile Uocation Centre (V-GMLC) (218) to enable tracing the location of the subscriber.

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