NFC Dynamic Credential Transmission for Two-Factor Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current two-factor authentication methods, such as time-based tokens and challenge-response tokens, are cumbersome and prone to errors as users must manually input dynamic credentials, which can lead to authentication failures.
Innovation Solution
A method using a near-field communication (NFC) capable device to compute and transmit dynamic credentials to an NFC reader, allowing secure authentication even when the device is in a locked state or powered off, by utilizing an NFC circuit with a secure element and antenna to receive an application identifier and transmit the credential.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual input of dynamic credentials is used for two-factor authentication, then authentication security is maintained, but user convenience deteriorates and error rate increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical manual input process with an automated NFC-based credential transmission system. The dynamic credential is automatically transmitted from the NFC device to the authentication system through near-field communication, eliminating the need for manual typing or entry of the credential.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service authentication where the NFC device automatically provides the dynamic credential without requiring user intervention for input. The device itself performs the authentication function by presenting the credential automatically when brought near the authentication reader.
2Productivity
If manual input of dynamic credentials is required, then authentication process is secure, but time consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The manual input mechanism is replaced with automated NFC communication that instantly transmits the dynamic credential. This substitution eliminates the time required for manual typing or entry while maintaining the security of the authentication process.
Solution Approach 2:
The dynamic credential is generated and ready for transmission in advance within the NFC device. When the device is brought near the authentication reader, the credential is immediately available for automatic transmission, eliminating any delay for credential generation or input preparation.
3Ease of operation
If device must be powered on and unlocked for authentication, then security is maintained, but usability in certain scenarios deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The authentication capability is extracted from the main device operations and placed into a separate NFC circuit that operates independently. This NFC circuit can function even when the main device is powered off or locked, allowing authentication to occur without requiring the device to be in an active or unlocked state.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication function is segmented into a separate NFC module that can operate independently from the main device system. This segmentation allows the NFC circuit to provide authentication services without being dependent on the power or lock state of the main device.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Streamlines the authentication process by eliminating the need for manual input of dynamic credentials, enhancing security and reducing errors, while enabling authentication in scenarios where the device is not powered or locked.
Implementation Method 1
receiving, utilizing near field communications, an application identifier from a reader associated with the terminal
Data Source
AI summary
There is provided a method and apparatus for communications using short range communications such as Near Field Communications (NFC). A mobile device comprising an NFC subsystem provides a dynamic credential for use to login to a network requiring two factor authentication. A terminal used for logging in to the network is associated with an NFC reader, and bringing the NFC device in proximity to the NFC reader provides the terminal with the dynamic credential required for two factor authentication.