Mobile Device Wireless Port Auto-Disable for Wired Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Simultaneous connections of wireless and wired communication devices to networks with different security levels pose a security threat due to disparities in perceived security, exemplified by the potential for malicious data forwarding through features like split tunneling, and existing solutions do not adequately address the risk of simultaneous wireless and wired connections.
Innovation Solution
A mobile communication device is equipped with an enhanced security feature that automatically blocks wireless communication when a wired connection is established, utilizing a computer-driven control circuit and IT Policy to manage communication ports, specifically disabling wireless ports like RF transceivers when a wired port is connected, and enabling this feature according to IT administrator settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a mobile communication device allows simultaneous wireless and wired connections to networks with different security levels, then communication versatility is improved, but security risk increases due to potential unauthorized data forwarding between networks
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic connection management where the device automatically adjusts its network connectivity state based on the current connection context. When a wired connection is detected, the system dynamically disables wireless communication ports through policy enforcement, creating a time-dependent and state-dependent communication profile that adapts to security requirements while maintaining versatility when appropriate
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring connection states and automatically responding to changes. The security policy enforcement module detects when a wired connection is established and triggers automatic disabling of wireless ports, creating a closed-loop control system that responds to connection events and maintains security posture based on real-time network context
2Productivity
If wireless communication ports remain active during wired connection, then communication availability is improved, but security control deteriorates due to inability to prevent malicious packet forwarding
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary security actions by establishing security policies that are enforced before potential security incidents can occur. The system proactively disables wireless communication ports when a wired connection is detected, preventing potential malicious activities before they can happen rather than reacting after a security breach is detected
Solution Approach 2:
The security policy enforcement module acts as an intermediary between the connection management system and the communication ports. This intermediary layer monitors connection states and controls port availability, mediating between the need for communication availability and the requirement for security control by selectively enabling or disabling ports based on policy rules
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile wireless communication device also has at least one wired communication port. Enhanced security is achieved by permitting the device to automatically disable one or more wireless ports when connected to a wired port. Specific combinations/permutations of such automatic control may be effected by use of an IT Policy also resident on the device.