Bootstrap Authentication Token Transfer Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face inconvenience and security risks due to the need to repeatedly enter passwords across multiple applications and devices, with existing solutions not effectively addressing the burden of data entry on devices with limited capabilities and the risk of phishing attacks.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a bootstrapping authentication method that allows users to transfer authentication from a primary client to a bootstrap client, using a weaker bootstrap credential that is easier to remember and enter, while ensuring security through application identifiers and public-key encryption, allowing seamless authentication across devices and applications without exposing trusted credentials.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If users enter passwords repeatedly across multiple applications and devices, then authentication security is maintained, but user convenience and time efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication by generating security tokens in advance during the initial login process. These tokens are stored locally on the device, eliminating the need for users to re-enter passwords during subsequent authentication requests within the same application or across trusted applications.
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates copies of authentication credentials in the form of security tokens that can be used multiple times. Instead of requiring the original password each time, the system generates and distributes token copies that replicate authentication authority without exposing the actual password.
2Ease of operation
If users set simple passwords for ease of memory, then ease of operation improves, but security reliability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system extracts the security burden from the user by removing the need for them to memorize complex passwords. The actual password is stored securely on the server, and only simplified security tokens are distributed to the user's device for authentication purposes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses short-lived security tokens instead of permanent passwords. These tokens have limited validity periods and can be revoked independently, providing strong security without requiring users to remember complex credentials. Each token is essentially a disposable authentication credential.
3Adaptability or versatility
If trusted credentials are exposed for authentication purposes, then authentication functionality is enabled, but security risk from phishing attacks increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments authentication credentials into two distinct parts: the master password stored securely on the server, and separate security tokens distributed to specific applications and devices. This segmentation ensures that even if one token is compromised, the master password remains protected, and the breach is isolated to a specific application context.
Solution Approach 2:
Security tokens are configured with local quality attributes specific to each application and device context. Each token contains embedded information about its intended use scope, including application identifiers and device identifiers, ensuring that credentials are only valid for their designated purposes and cannot be misused elsewhere.
4Ease of operation
If simplified authentication methods are implemented, then ease of operation improves, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements self-service authentication where the device automatically manages security tokens without requiring user intervention. The authentication library handles token generation, storage, validation, and rotation automatically, providing simplified user experience while managing the underlying complexity through automated processes.
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed are various embodiments relating to bootstrapping user authentication. A first application is authenticated based at least in part on a first security credential received via the first application in a first authentication request. A second security credential is generated. The second security credential is sent to the first application that is authenticated. The second application is authenticated based at least in part on the second security credential being received via the second application.