Device Security System for Unauthorized Use Mitigation
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices are susceptible to loss, theft, or unauthorized use, leading to data security breaches and misuse, with existing systems failing to promptly alert users or prevent unauthorized access effectively.
Innovation Solution
A system that enhances the likelihood of device recovery by providing notifications to unauthorized users on how to return the device, alters device functionality to prevent access, and monitors unauthorized users to aid in identification and recovery, utilizing wireless communication and encryption techniques.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the device provides notification to unauthorized user describing how to return the device, then the likelihood of device recovery is enhanced, but the device may remain accessible to unauthorized users for longer period
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides return instructions to unauthorized users before completely disabling the device, allowing the device to remain functional enough for the user to contact the owner or return it, but preparing the ground for subsequent functionality alteration that will prevent prolonged unauthorized access
2Loss of information
If the system alters device functionality to prevent access to information, then data security is improved, but the ability to monitor unauthorized user behavior is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system monitors and logs unauthorized user behavior before altering device functionality, capturing information about the user and their actions while the device is still partially operational, then subsequently alters functionality to prevent further access to sensitive information
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an intermediary monitoring layer that operates between the unauthorized user and the protected data, allowing the system to observe and record user behavior without providing full access to the information being protected
3Reliability
If the device provides comprehensive return instructions and monitoring capabilities, then device recovery is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system integrates multiple functions into a unified security application that can provide return instructions, monitor unauthorized usage, alter device functionality, and communicate with the authorized user through a single integrated platform, reducing overall system complexity despite the comprehensive capabilities
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
AI summary
The invention is directed to systems and methods for detecting the loss, theft or unauthorized use of a device and/or altering the functionality of the device in response. In one embodiment, a device monitors its use, its local environment, and/or its operating context to determine that the device is no longer within the control of an authorized user. The device may receive communications or generate an internal signal altering its functionality, such as instructing the device to enter a restricted use mode, a surveillance mode, to provide instructions to return the device and/or to prevent unauthorized use or unauthorized access to data. Additional embodiments also address methods and systems for gathering forensic data regarding an unauthorized user to assist in locating the unauthorized user and/or the device.