Network Robocall Blocking via Intermediary Server
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for blocking unwanted calls, such as robocalls and scam calls, on mobile devices are cumbersome and unreliable, requiring users to manually save numbers in the contact library for blocking, which is inefficient and prone to errors.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a network-based call blocking system where the wireless communication network identifies and blocks calls from known bad actors based on user preferences, allowing users to interact with a UI to block or report numbers, and manage blocking lists through a Telephony Application Server, reducing the burden on mobile devices.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If users manually save call numbers in the contact library to block them, then call blocking functionality is achieved, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a network server as an intermediary that maintains a centralized block list of unwanted numbers. Instead of requiring users to manually manage local contact library entries, the network server handles the blocking logic by comparing incoming call numbers against its comprehensive block list, thereby eliminating the cumbersome manual saving process while maintaining reliable blocking functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The network server pre-populates a block list with known unwanted numbers before users need to block them. This preliminary action allows the system to automatically recognize and block scam or robocall numbers without requiring users to manually add each number to their contact library, significantly reducing operational effort while ensuring reliable blocking
2Reliability
If users manually manage block lists on mobile devices, then call blocking is achieved, but the process is unreliable and prone to errors
Solution Approach 1:
The network server acts as an intermediary that centralizes the block list management functionality. It maintains an authoritative list of unwanted numbers and handles all blocking decisions, eliminating the need for users to manually manage complex local block lists on their mobile devices. This centralization improves reliability by ensuring consistent blocking accuracy across all users while reducing device complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where user interactions with blocked calls (such as reporting spam) are communicated back to the network server. The server uses this feedback to update and refine its block list, improving blocking accuracy over time without requiring users to manually correct or manage the list, thereby reducing management complexity while enhancing reliability
3Loss of energy
If the network blocks calls at the network level, then network resources are conserved and battery life is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the call blocking functionality from the mobile device and relocates it to the network server. By taking out the blocking logic from the device, the mobile device no longer needs to perform complex number matching operations, thereby conserving battery energy and reducing device complexity. The network server assumes responsibility for the blocking operations, managing the complexity at the network level rather than on individual devices
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for network-controlled scam/robocall handling are described. When an incoming call for a user device is received, a user may elect to add the originating number of the incoming call to a block list or a report list at the network level. Future calls from the originating number, if placed on the block list, are then blocked by the network from being received by the user device. Numbers on the report list may be moved by the user from the report list to the block list, and numbers on the block list may be moved from the block list to the report list. Also, the user may request additional information in order to determine whether to add the originating number to the block list or the report list.