Matrix Code Fraud Detection for Electronic Devices

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Solution Overview

Problem

Users attempt to fraudulently utilize multiple electronic devices at different locations by attempting to use a single content service account, known as 'account packing,' which existing verification methods, such as telephone verification codes, are burdensome and time-consuming for legitimate users.

Innovation Solution

A system and method utilizing matrix codes, where a computing device analyzes information from matrix code readers to determine if electronic devices are being used in the same location by evaluating factors like timestamp differences, electronic signatures, and matching telephone numbers associated with an account, to prevent fraudulent use.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If telephone verification codes are used to verify device locations, then fraudulent use can be detected, but the verification process becomes burdensome and time-consuming for legitimate users

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefraud detection accuracyVSAvoidverification convenience
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent replaces the manual telephone verification process with an automated matrix code scanning system. The matrix code reader automatically captures device information, timestamps, and location data, eliminating the need for users to manually enter verification codes over the phone. This substitution of manual mechanical verification with automated optical scanning resolves the contradiction by maintaining fraud detection reliability while dramatically improving ease of operation.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Solution Approach 2:

The system enables self-service verification through matrix code scanning. The matrix code reader autonomously performs the verification process by scanning codes displayed on electronic devices, automatically comparing timestamps and locations, and determining whether devices are at the same location without requiring user intervention or telephone communication. This self-service approach maintains security while eliminating the burdensome manual verification steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

2Adaptability or versatility

If multiple electronic devices are authorized at different locations, then more users can access the service, but fraudulent account packing increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedevice authorization flexibilityVSAvoidaccount packing fraud
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system implements feedback through timestamp comparison and location verification. When multiple devices are authorized, the matrix code reader captures timestamps from each device and compares them to determine if they are at the same location. This feedback mechanism allows the system to maintain flexible device authorization while automatically detecting and preventing account packing fraud by identifying when devices are being used at different locations simultaneously.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #23Feedback

Solution Approach 2:

The authorization system dynamically adjusts based on real-time location verification. Instead of static location restrictions, the system uses dynamic timestamp comparison to determine whether devices are at the same location at the time of scanning. This dynamic approach allows legitimate multi-device usage at the same location while preventing fraud when devices are separated, resolving the contradiction between flexibility and fraud prevention.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

3Reliability

If manual verification processes are used, then user identity can be confirmed, but the process is time-consuming and burdensome

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveidentity verification accuracyVSAvoidverification time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs preliminary action by pre-generating matrix codes with embedded device identifiers and timestamps on the electronic devices themselves. When verification is needed, the matrix code reader simply scans these pre-prepared codes rather than requiring users to go through a time-consuming manual verification process. This preliminary preparation of verification data maintains identity confirmation reliability while eliminating the time loss associated with manual verification steps.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #10Preliminary action

Solution Approach 2:

The patent substitutes manual verification mechanics with automated optical scanning. Instead of users manually providing verification information over the phone, the matrix code reader automatically captures and processes verification data from scanned codes. This mechanical substitution maintains accurate identity verification while reducing the time required from minutes to seconds.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

Data Source

PatentUS8468610B2Determining fraudulent use of electronic devices utilizing matrix codes
Publication Date: 2013.06.18 DISH TECHNOLOGIES LLC
  • US8468610B2 patent drawing
  • US8468610B2 patent drawing
  • US8468610B2 patent drawing

AI summary

In one or more implementations, a computing device may receive information from a matrix code reader that scans multiple matrix codes, each displayed by one of multiple devices. The computing device may determine whether or not the devices are being fraudulently utilized, such as whether the devices are in the same location. Additionally, in some implementations, a computing device may receive a service request from a matrix code reader that includes an associated telephone number. The computing device may extract the number and may handle the service request based on the number. Moreover, in various implementations, a computing device may receive information from a matrix code reader that scans a displayed matrix code. The information may include an electronic signature that is included in the matrix code by the device. After receiving the information, the computing device may analyze the information to determine that the electronic signature is valid.