Mobile Device Security Recovery in Low Power States
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electronic devices are vulnerable to loss, theft, and unauthorized use, leading to data security breaches and financial losses, as existing solutions do not effectively prevent unauthorized access or facilitate rapid recovery, especially when devices are in low power states.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that enables a mobile device to detect security compromises, alter its functionality to prevent unauthorized access, and provide notifications to assist in recovery, including powering up from a low power state to alert the owner and guide the return of the device, while also tracking unauthorized users.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If the device enters low power state to conserve energy, then energy consumption is reduced, but the device cannot respond to security events or provide recovery assistance
Solution Approach 1:
The device performs preliminary actions by storing security event detection logic and recovery instructions in memory before entering low power state. When a security event occurs, the device can quickly transition from low power state to execute pre-programmed security responses without requiring full system activation, thus maintaining security responsiveness while conserving energy during normal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The device implements self-service by autonomously detecting security events even in low power state and executing pre-configured recovery procedures. The system monitors for security compromises using minimal power and can independently initiate recovery actions or alert authorized users without requiring external intervention, thereby maintaining security functionality while minimizing energy consumption.
2Use of energy by moving object
If the device remains in low power state after security event, then energy is conserved, but unauthorized users may not be alerted and device recovery is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The device employs periodic action by transitioning to active state at predetermined intervals to check for security events and communicate with authorized users. Instead of remaining continuously active or completely dormant, the device periodically wakes up to assess security status and send alerts, balancing energy conservation with timely recovery notification through scheduled monitoring cycles.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the device monitors its own power state and security event status, then provides feedback to authorized users about its condition. When security events are detected during low power state, the system generates feedback signals or notifications to alert users, enabling informed recovery decisions while maintaining energy-efficient operation throughout the monitoring process.
3Reliability
If the device activates full functionality upon security event detection, then security response is immediate, but energy consumption increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The device applies local quality by activating only specific security-related functions and components when security events are detected, rather than activating the entire system. Only the minimal necessary subsystems required for security response and recovery operations are powered up, leaving non-essential functions in low power or off states, thus providing immediate security response while minimizing overall energy consumption.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements partial action by performing only the essential security response tasks needed to address the detected threat, rather than activating all available device functions. The device executes sufficient security measures to protect data and enable recovery, without unnecessarily activating excessive functionality that would consume additional energy, achieving effective security response with optimized power usage.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention is directed to systems and methods for detecting the loss, theft or unauthorized use of a device and/or altering the functionality of the device in response. In one embodiment, a device monitors its use, its local environment, and/or its operating context to determine that the device is no longer within the control of an authorized user. The device may receive communications or generate an internal signal altering its functionality, such as instructing the device to enter a restricted use mode, a surveillance mode, to provide instructions to return the device and/or to prevent unauthorized use or unauthorized access to data. Additional embodiments also address methods and systems for addressing devices that have low or no power.