Mobile Device Data Capture in Off-Network Environments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for capturing data from mobile devices in off-network environments, such as those using ProSe communication, face challenges in enabling lawful interception (LI) as traditional interception techniques are not applicable, and existing solutions may increase detectability or lead to behavioral countermeasures from the target user.
Innovation Solution
The system receives data capture configuration information from the wireless network, which instructs the mobile device to store specific data types locally during off-network conditions and upload them when access is regained, incorporating techniques like intentional delay and distributed or duplicated recording to minimize detectability and ensure data integrity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional interception techniques are used for off-network environments, then data capture capability is improved, but detectability increases and user countermeasures are triggered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a virtual network environment that replicates normal network behavior patterns. The system captures data by copying legitimate network protocols and communication patterns, making the interception indistinguishable from normal network operations. This allows reliable data capture while maintaining undetectability, as the copied network behavior appears authentic to the target device
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary virtual network layer between the target device and the interception system. This intermediary translates and mediates communication patterns to resemble legitimate network traffic, preventing detection while enabling data capture. The intermediary acts as a buffer that maintains normal-appearing communication flows while extracting required information
2Loss of information
If data is captured continuously from mobile devices, then data completeness is improved, but energy consumption and device performance are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements periodic data capture intervals rather than continuous monitoring. The system captures data at predetermined time intervals or based on trigger events, reducing energy consumption while maintaining sufficient data completeness for interception purposes. This periodic approach balances resource consumption with information gathering effectiveness
Solution Approach 2:
The patent captures only the specific data elements required for interception purposes rather than all device communications. By focusing on partial data capture of only the necessary information types, the system achieves sufficient data completeness for legal interception while minimizing energy consumption and device resource usage
3Loss of information
If data is stored locally in off-network environment, then data availability is improved, but data integrity and security are worsened due to potential tampering
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements protective measures beforehand by encrypting data immediately upon capture and using secure storage mechanisms. The system prepares security buffers in advance, including cryptographic protection and integrity verification protocols, to prevent tampering before it can occur. This prior cushioning ensures data integrity is maintained throughout the off-network storage period
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates verified copies of captured data with integrity checksums and cryptographic signatures. These copies serve as reference points for verifying data authenticity when transferred or accessed later. The copying mechanism includes creating hash-based fingerprints of the original data to detect any subsequent tampering attempts
Data Source
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AI summary
Some aspects of what is described here relate to systems, devices, and computer-implemented methods for capturing data related to a mobile device in a wireless network. In one example, a method may include receiving, at a mobile device, data capture configuration information from a wireless network, the data capture configuration information indicating a data type to be captured from the mobile device in an off-network environment. Thereafter, in response to detecting the off-network environment at the mobile device, a data element is stored in a local memory of the mobile device. The data element corresponds to the data type indicated by the data capture configuration information. The data element is sent to the wireless network, for instance, when the mobile device has access to the wireless network.