MTC Device Behavior Policing for Network Stability
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 3GPP specifications do not address the detection or handling of malfunctioning/misbehaving MTC devices in the network, which can cause denial of service outages or limited service.
Innovation Solution
Methods, systems, and computer readable media for detecting and mitigating abnormal MTC device behavior by receiving Communication Pattern (CP) information, deriving rules for policing behavior, and performing network security actions such as blocking communications or notifying operators when abnormal behavior is detected.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If MTC devices are allowed to communicate freely in the network, then network coverage and device connectivity are improved, but malfunctioning devices can cause denial of service outages and network disruptions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing behavior rules for MTC devices before they can cause network disruptions. The network node proactively defines expected communication patterns, data volumes, and timing for MTC devices, and monitors compliance continuously. When a device deviates from its predefined behavior profile, the system can immediately take mitigating actions such as blocking traffic or isolating the device, preventing potential denial of service attacks before they impact network stability.
2Reliability
If network monitoring and detection mechanisms are implemented for MTC devices, then network security and reliability are improved, but system complexity and processing overhead increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements self-service by having MTC devices autonomously follow predefined behavior rules that are assigned to them by the network. Each device is configured with its own communication pattern, data volume limits, and timing parameters. The device independently monitors its own compliance with these rules and self-regulates its communication behavior, eliminating the need for complex real-time analysis and decision-making at the network monitoring node. This reduces system complexity while maintaining security through device-level self-enforcement of behavior policies.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for detecting and mitigating effects of abnormal MTC device behavior includes, at a telecommunications network node comprising one of an MME, DRA, or SCEF, receiving CP information from which core network (CN) assistance information for tuning an evolved node B (eNB) to minimize MTC device state transitions is derivable, forwarding the CP information or CN assistance information derived from the CP information to another network node, deriving, from the CP information, a rule for policing behavior of the MTC device, storing the rule in memory of the telecommunications network node, monitoring uplink communications from the MTC device, determining, using the stored rule derived from the CP information, that the MTC device is not behaving in accordance with an expected behavior; and, in response performing a network security action that mitigates an effect of traffic from the MTC device on the network.