Network-Based Subscriber Call Restriction Enforcement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing wireless device call restriction methods are inadequate as they can be easily bypassed by sophisticated users who remove the SIM card and use another device, and current network-based solutions are inconvenient for users to manage incoming and outgoing call restrictions.
Innovation Solution
A system that associates call restrictions with a user's account, allowing users to manage and enforce these restrictions through a database accessed by a core network component, enabling or denying communication events based on stored user account data, independent of the device used.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If call restrictions are stored in device hardware (phone book), then restrictions are enforced on that specific device, but restrictions can be bypassed by removing the SIM card and using another device
Solution Approach 1:
The patent moves call restriction storage from the device dimension (local phone book) to the network dimension (centralized database). By storing restrictions in the network database associated with the user account rather than in the device hardware, the system achieves both reliable enforcement (network controls access) and device independence (restrictions follow the user account across devices).
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a network database as an intermediary between the user and the call restriction enforcement. The database stores restriction data and provides it to the wireless device during call setup, acting as a mediator that ensures restrictions are consistently applied regardless of which device is used. This intermediary layer prevents direct access to restriction data that could be bypassed by SIM card removal.
2Reliability
If a customized device with integrated SIM functionality is manufactured, then SIM card removal is prevented, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent separates the SIM card functionality from the call restriction functionality. The SIM card remains a standard, removable component for user convenience and interoperability, while call restrictions are stored separately in the network database. This segmentation allows users to remove SIM cards without affecting restriction enforcement, eliminating the need for costly customized devices with integrated SIMs.
3Reliability
If FDN restrictions are implemented in GSM devices, then outgoing call restrictions are enforced, but incoming calls are unaffected and restrictions are device-specific
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal restriction system that applies to both outgoing and incoming calls through a single network-based mechanism. The database stores comprehensive restriction data that the network uses to control both call directions, unlike FDN which only restricts outgoing calls. This multi-functional approach ensures complete call control while maintaining device independence.
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems are provided that enable communication with a wireless device. In one such method, a communication event that is intended for a wireless device is detected and a user account associated with the wireless device is identified. Information associated with the user account is identified and a determination is made as to whether the information permits the communication event to occur. If the determination is that the information does not permit the communication event to occur, the communication event is terminated. If the determination is that the information permits the communication event to occur, the communication event is enabled.