Geolocation-Based Computer System Access Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current technologies inadequately protect computer systems from theft and illegal transportation, failing to provide sufficient access protection for sensitive information beyond basic password security.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system that detects when a computer system moves outside a designated area, triggers a second level of authentication, and locks functionalities or restricts access to prevent unauthorized use, using RF, IR, or GPS-based communication to ensure protection regardless of the computer's power mode.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If basic operating system password protection is used, then ease of operation is improved, but security against theft and illegal transportation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by establishing geographical boundaries and configuring monitoring mechanisms before theft occurs. The computer system is pre-programmed with authorized area boundaries and automatically monitors its location, triggering protection mechanisms upon unauthorized movement without requiring user intervention at the moment of theft.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary monitoring system that acts as a mediator between the computer system and the user. This intermediary layer continuously tracks the computer's location and automatically enforces security policies, providing enhanced protection while maintaining ease of operation for authorized users within the designated area.
2Reliability
If geographical monitoring and additional authentication are implemented, then security is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system achieves multi-functionality by combining geographical monitoring, automatic authentication triggering, and access control enforcement into a single integrated security framework. The same monitoring infrastructure serves multiple security purposes, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining robust protection against theft and unauthorized access.
Solution Approach 2:
The computer system performs self-service security functions by automatically monitoring its own location, detecting unauthorized movement, and triggering additional authentication requirements without external intervention. This self-service capability reduces the need for complex external monitoring infrastructure while maintaining high security standards.
3Reliability
If access is restricted when outside designated area, then security is improved, but adaptability deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The security system dynamically adjusts access levels based on the computer's location relative to authorized boundaries. When within the designated area, full functionality is available; when outside, the system automatically applies restricted access modes. This dynamic adaptation allows the system to maintain high security while providing appropriate functionality for each operational context.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes operational parameters based on geographical location. Authorized users within the designated area experience normal system operation, while movement outside the boundary automatically triggers parameter changes that enforce additional authentication or restrict access. These parameter changes enable the system to adapt its security posture without permanently limiting functionality.
Data Source
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AI summary
Methods, systems, and computer program products for computer system protection are provided. Embodiments protect against unauthorized access to information on stolen and/or illegally transported computer systems. Embodiments include locking of functionalities within a computer system when the computer system moves outside a designated area. Embodiments include limiting access to functionalities within the computer system based on the location of the computer system. Embodiments of the present invention include allowing variable levels of access protection depending on the location of the computer system.