Camera-Based Merchant Device Identification for Secure Mobile Payments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing payment systems face challenges in securely facilitating transactions for consumers without near field communication-enabled devices, as they require physical contact and can be vulnerable to identity theft due to the need to share account information with merchants.
Innovation Solution
A method using a camera on a mobile communication device to capture images of merchant access devices, which are then identified through unique characteristics and location data, allowing transactions to be authorized without direct account information exchange, enhancing security and consumer control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If near field communication protocols (Bluetooth, RFID) are used for contactless payment, then transaction security is improved, but accessibility is worsened because not all consumers have NFC-enabled devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a camera as an intermediary device that captures images of the merchant access device. This intermediary mechanism allows consumers without NFC capabilities to securely verify merchant devices through visual documentation, bridging the gap between security requirements and broad consumer accessibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system creates a visual copy (image) of the merchant access device that can be transmitted and verified remotely. This copying approach enables consumers to verify device characteristics without direct physical contact or specialized hardware, expanding accessibility while maintaining security through image-based verification
2Adaptability or versatility
If physical contact is required for transactions, then device compatibility is improved, but security is worsened due to vulnerability to identity theft from sharing account information
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the verification process from direct physical contact and account information exchange. By capturing and transmitting images of the merchant access device, the system separates the verification function from the transaction execution, eliminating the need to share sensitive account information while maintaining device compatibility
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical exchange of physical cards and direct account information sharing with an optical/image-based verification system. The camera captures visual characteristics of the merchant device, substituting physical contact mechanisms with light-based documentation that enhances security while preserving transaction functionality
3Reliability
If camera-based identification is implemented, then fraud prevention is improved, but device complexity is worsened due to additional hardware requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent leverages the universal presence of cameras in modern mobile devices. By using a commonly available component for fraud prevention purposes, the system enhances security without requiring specialized or additional hardware, thereby minimizing the increase in device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system utilizes the consumer's existing camera capability to perform verification functions. The consumer's device serves itself by using its built-in camera to capture and transmit verification images, eliminating the need for separate verification hardware and reducing overall system complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods of conducting a payment transaction using a mobile phone having a camera. The systems and methods receive an image of a merchant access device and optionally location data from a mobile device of a user engaged in the transaction. The systems and methods also receive transaction information associated with the transaction and account information associated with an account of the user. The systems and methods use the information to authorize or decline the transaction.