Mobile Device Case with Microcontroller for Secure Data Entry

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Solution Overview

Problem

Mobile devices are vulnerable to malware attacks during secure data entry, such as online banking transactions, as malware can intercept and alter user input, compromising privacy and security.

Innovation Solution

A mobile device case equipped with a microcontroller, communication module, and user interface that processes and securely communicates user data without the mobile device being able to interpret it, using visual indicators and touch mechanisms to conceal input from malware, and optionally integrating a smartcard reader for additional security features.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If a CAP reader is used for secure data entry, then security is improved, but device complexity and portability are worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoiddevice complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent merges the CAP reader functionality directly into the mobile device case, combining what were previously separate devices (mobile phone and CAP reader) into a single integrated unit. The case includes a microcontroller, user interface, and communication module that enable secure data entry without requiring a separate CAP reader device.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Solution Approach 2:

The mobile device case is designed to perform multiple functions: it provides physical protection for the device, enables secure data entry through its integrated user interface, and facilitates secure communication through its microcontroller and communication module. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated security devices.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Reliability

If a CAP reader is carried separately from the mobile device, then security is improved, but ease of operation is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
ImprovesecurityVSAvoidease of operation
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

By integrating the CAP reader functionality into the mobile device case, users no longer need to carry and switch between separate devices. The secure data entry function is always available when the device is in hand, improving convenience while maintaining security.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Ease of operation

If user data is processed on the mobile device, then ease of operation is improved, but security is worsened

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveease of operationVSAvoidsecurity
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of operationVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces a dedicated microcontroller in the case as an intermediary between the user interface and the mobile device. This microcontroller processes and protects user data locally within the case, acting as a security barrier that prevents malware on the mobile device from accessing sensitive information while still enabling smooth user interaction.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Data Source

PatentEP3913511B1Mobile device case for generating user data
Publication Date: 2023.04.19 CRYPTOMATHIC LTD
  • EP3913511B1 patent drawingFigure 1~2
  • EP3913511B1 patent drawingFigure 3a
  • EP3913511B1 patent drawingFigure 3b

AI summary

The invention provides systems and method for generating user data to be input by a user into a mobile device. For example, there is provided a mobile device case for generating user data to be input by a user, the mobile device case for holding a mobile device and the mobile device case comprising: a microcontroller; and a plurality of lights to display the generated user data to the user. The microcontroller of the mobile device case is configured to: receive a request to generate the user data; generate said user data and control the plurality of lights of the mobile device case, the plurality of lights aligned with a set of characters displayed by a mobile device held within the mobile device case, to flash in sequence to display the user data.