Infrared Input Shielding for ATM and POS Capture Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Transaction devices, such as ATMs and POS systems, face the challenge of protecting sensitive user input data from being captured by image or video capture devices, as existing methods like physical obstructions can hinder user interaction and are not entirely effective in preventing data capture.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating infrared elements associated with input elements, which receive position and lighting information from sensors to calculate and implement position and intensity adjustments, reflecting light away from the input area to prevent image or video capture, using either continuous or random pulses of infrared light to blind image capture devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If physical obstructions are used to prevent image capture, then security is improved, but user interaction is hindered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces mechanical/physical obstruction methods with an optical system using infrared light sources and sensors. Instead of using physical barriers that block user interaction, the system uses infrared illumination to create optical conditions that prevent image capture devices from capturing visible light, thereby maintaining ease of operation while improving security.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the parameter of light wavelength by using infrared light (which is invisible to the human eye but detectable by image sensors) to prevent capture. By operating in the infrared spectrum rather than visible light, the system prevents image capture without affecting user interaction, as users can still see and interact with the device normally.
2Reliability
If infrared elements are continuously energized to prevent capture, then security is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic action by energizing the infrared light sources only during specific intervals when user input is detected or anticipated, rather than continuously. The system activates the infrared elements in synchronization with user interaction events, maintaining security during critical moments while reducing energy consumption during idle periods.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses the device's own operational state (detection of user presence or input activity) to trigger the security mechanism. When the sensor detects user interaction, the system automatically activates the infrared protection, eliminating the need for continuous operation and reducing energy consumption while maintaining security when needed.
3Reliability
If infrared light is used to blind capture devices, then image capture is prevented, but visibility for users may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the wavelength parameter of the light used for security purposes to the infrared spectrum, which is invisible to the human eye but detectable by image sensors and cameras. This allows the system to blind capture devices effectively while having no impact on user visibility, as users cannot perceive infrared light but can still see the device interface normally.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively prevents image or video capture of sensitive input data by adjusting infrared elements to direct light away from the user, ensuring secure transactions without hindering user interaction, and reducing energy consumption by energizing elements only upon user presence.
Implementation Method 1
implement the position adjustment and the intensity adjustment to enable the infrared element, when illuminated, to reflect light away from the input element and to prevent image or video capture of the input data
Data Source
AI summary
A device receives position information from a sensor of the device, wherein the position information indicates a position of a user of the device and a position of a person proximate to the user. The device receives lighting information from the sensor, wherein the lighting information indicates lighting conditions around the device and the user. The device calculates a position adjustment for an infrared element of the device based on the position information and the lighting information, and calculates an intensity adjustment for the infrared element based on the position information and the lighting information. The device receives, via an input element of the device, input data provided by the user, and implements the position adjustment and the intensity adjustment to enable the infrared element, when illuminated, to reflect light away from the input element and to prevent image or video capture of the input data.