eUICC Profile Transfer via Secure Binding
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional SIM cards can be easily transferred between devices, whereas embedded UICC (eUICC) cannot, leading to inefficiencies in handling network subscriptions and increased costs due to the inability to share or transfer subscription profiles across subscriber devices.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that enables secure transfer of network subscription profiles between subscriber devices using a Profile Management Application (PMA) and an eUICC Subscription Manager, allowing direct device-to-device transfer or facilitated transfer through a subscription manager node, with end-user confirmation and secure binding processes.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional plastic SIM cards are used, then the SIM can be easily detached and attached between devices, but the eUICC cannot be detached or transferred between devices
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a digital copy of the SIM profile from the source device and transfers it to the target device through a server-mediated process. The profile data is extracted, transmitted, and re-bound to a new device identifier, enabling transferability without physical SIM card manipulation.
Solution Approach 2:
The server acts as an intermediary between the source and target devices during profile transfer. It receives the source device identifier, retrieves the associated profile, validates the transfer request, and facilitates the re-binding process, enabling secure cross-device transfer without direct device-to-device communication.
2Reliability
If eUICC is used for remote SIM provisioning, then security and remote management are improved, but the inability to transfer profiles between devices increases subscription costs
Solution Approach 1:
The system creates and transfers digital copies of subscription profiles between devices, enabling a single subscription to serve multiple devices. This eliminates the need for separate subscriptions when users switch devices, directly reducing subscription costs while maintaining the security benefits of eUICC-based profile management.
3Adaptability or versatility
If profile transfer between devices is enabled, then subscription sharing and cost savings are achieved, but the risk of SIM cloning increases
Solution Approach 1:
The server acts as a trusted intermediary that controls and validates all profile transfer operations. It verifies device identifiers, manages profile re-binding, and maintains an audit trail of transfers, enabling profile sharing while preventing unauthorized cloning through centralized security management.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the server continuously monitors and validates profile usage across devices. Transfer requests are authenticated against the source device identifier, and the system maintains awareness of profile locations, enabling adaptive security responses to prevent cloning while allowing legitimate sharing.
Data Source
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AI summary
There is provided mechanisms for transfer of a network subscription profile from a first subscriber device to a second subscriber device. The method is performed by the first subscriber device. The method comprises establishing a secure binding with the second subscriber device. The method comprises 5 obtaining a request for transfer of the network subscription profile. The method comprises obtaining end-user confirmation of the transfer of the network subscription profile to the second subscriber device. The method comprises deleting the network subscription profile from itself upon transfer of the network subscription profile to the second subscriber device.