Communication Device Location Verification Using Adjacent Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current communication systems struggle to verify the location of a communication device when a virtual private network (VPN) masks the actual location, hindering authentication, especially in sensitive discussions or transactions.
Innovation Solution
A location verification system that utilizes a processing system to transmit notifications to adjacent network devices to gather their locations, identify the communication device's location by proximity, and establish a communication session only if the location is verified.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a VPN is used to mask the location of the communication device, then privacy and security are improved, but location verification capability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from direct location measurement (2D coordinates) to multi-dimensional verification by collecting location data from multiple adjacent network devices (routers, switches, access points) to create a location profile that can be verified against the communication device's claimed location, thereby maintaining verification capability even when VPN masking is detected
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces adjacent network devices as intermediaries to verify location. Instead of directly measuring the communication device's location (which may be masked), the system uses nearby network infrastructure devices to provide indirect location evidence through their known positions and signal characteristics
2Reliability
If location verification through adjacent network devices is implemented, then authentication reliability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by having adjacent network devices automatically provide their location information and participation status in response to verification requests, without requiring manual configuration or intervention. The devices autonomously respond to probe signals and contribute their data to the verification process
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal verification mechanism that can work with any type of adjacent network device (routers, switches, access points, base stations) that supports basic communication protocols. The system uses standardized probe signals and response mechanisms that are universally applicable across different device types and network infrastructures
Data Source
AI summary
Aspects of the subject disclosure may include, for example, a processing system determining a first communication device initiating a communication session with a second communication device, and transmitting a notification to the second communication device. The notification indicates to the second communication device to initiate a location verification application on the second communication device, and the location verification application transmits notifications to adjacent network devices. Each notification indicates to an adjacent network device to provide its location to the processing system. Further embodiments include receiving locations from the adjacent network devices, and identifying a first location associated with the second communication device. Additional embodiments include determining that the first location is in proximity to the locations, and establishing the communication session between the first communication device and the second communication device. Other embodiments are disclosed.