Privileged Access Control for Mobile Device Testing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current mobile devices lack a secure method to unlock privileged access for developers to test and install new software, posing a security risk for vendors as sideloading can lead to unauthorized software installation.
Innovation Solution
A method involving a unique activation code and token system, where a developer requests an activation code through a vendor's system, which is then used to unlock privileged access by verifying the device's identity and ensuring the access is time-limited, preventing unauthorized access and ensuring only approved software installations.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If developers are granted direct access to install software on mobile devices, then software testing and development capabilities are improved, but device security and vendor control are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an activation code as an intermediary mechanism between the developer and the device's privileged access system. The activation code serves as a mediator that enables temporary, controlled access without directly compromising device security. It acts as a bridge that allows software installation capabilities while maintaining vendor control through code validation and expiration mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements time-based parameter changes by introducing activation codes with expiration dates. The access permissions are dynamically changed over time - valid during the activation period and automatically revoked after expiration. This temporal parameter control allows versatile software testing while maintaining security by automatically limiting the window of potential security risks.
2Ease of operation
If activation codes are made universally valid, then ease of access for developers is improved, but security control and prevention of unauthorized access are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the activation code into multiple components including a device-specific portion and a time-validity portion. This segmentation allows the system to maintain ease of operation by using a simple code format while simultaneously enhancing security through device-specific binding and expiration validation. The segmented structure enables the system to verify both convenience (valid code format) and security (device match and time validity).
Data Source
AI summary
A method of providing privileged access to an electronic device is provided. The method comprises receiving a first request for an activation code, where the first request comprises an identifier of the electronic device. An activation expiration time is determined by a computer system. An activation code is determined based on the identifier of the electronic device, and the activation code is transmitted. A second request for a token to unlock privileged access to the electronic device is received, where the second request comprises the activation code and the identifier of the electronic device. When the activation code received in the second request correlates with the identifier of the electronic device provided in the second request and when the second request is received before the activation expiration time, the token to unlock privileged access to the electronic device is transmitted.