Discovery Message Encryption for Variable-Length 5G NR Signaling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless communication systems, particularly 5G NR, face challenges in securing discovery messages due to limitations in existing scrambling and confidentiality protection mechanisms, especially for messages with variable lengths exceeding 256 bits, which are not adequately protected by current keystream-based methods.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a ciphering algorithm for message-specific confidentiality protection and a scrambling algorithm for message protection, allowing full confidentiality protection of discovery messages without size limitations, using distinct ciphering and scrambling keys and algorithms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If existing scrambling and confidentiality protection mechanisms are used, then discovery messages can be protected, but messages with variable lengths exceeding 256 bits are not adequately protected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the protection mechanism into two distinct parts: a scrambling algorithm for initial message protection and a ciphering algorithm for comprehensive confidentiality protection. This segmentation allows the system to handle messages of any length by applying the appropriate algorithm based on message size requirements, thereby resolving the contradiction between reliable protection and adaptability to variable lengths.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the protection parameters by introducing a ciphering algorithm that can handle arbitrary message lengths, unlike the existing scrambling mechanism limited to 256 bits. The system dynamically selects between scrambling and ciphering based on message length parameters, enabling adequate protection for both short and variable-length discovery messages.
2Ease of operation
If a single scrambling algorithm is used, then the system is simple to operate, but it cannot provide adequate confidentiality protection for messages exceeding 256 bits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal protection framework that incorporates both scrambling and ciphering algorithms. The system universally applies scrambling to all discovery messages and selectively applies ciphering when message length exceeds 256 bits or higher confidentiality is required. This multi-functional approach maintains operational simplicity while enhancing confidentiality protection capability.
3Device complexity
If only one protection algorithm is used, then device complexity is reduced, but the security capability against different attack vectors is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a composite protection approach by combining two distinct algorithms: scrambling and ciphering. Each algorithm provides different security properties - scrambling offers basic obfuscation and integrity protection, while ciphering provides strong confidentiality protection. This composite structure enhances overall security capability against various attack vectors without significantly increasing device complexity, as both algorithms can be integrated into the existing communication stack.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods, apparatuses, and computer-readable storage medium for encrypting discovery messages are provided. An example method at a first UE may include obtaining a discovery message that is ciphered based on at least one of a ciphering key, a ciphering algorithm, or a first set of time parameters, where the discovery message is scrambled based on at least one of a scrambling key, a scrambling algorithm, or a second set of time parameters. An example method may also include descrambling the discovery message based on at least one of the scrambling key, the scrambling algorithm, or the second set of time parameters. An example method may also include deciphering the discovery message based on at least one of the ciphering key, the ciphering algorithm, or the first set of time parameters.