NFC Tag Authentication for Mobile Device Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional authentication methods for mobile computing devices are not fully secure and can be time-consuming, as they may be observed and replicated by unauthorized users, and do not provide quick access when urgent situations arise.
Innovation Solution
Implementing near field communication (NFC) technology by attaching an NFC tag to a commonly carried or worn object, such as a key chain, card, or jewelry, which is associated with the mobile device, allowing secure and rapid authentication by matching the NFC tag identifier stored on the device with the one retrieved from the object.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional username and password authentication is used, then the device can be secured against unauthorized access, but the authentication process becomes time-consuming and vulnerable to observation by unauthorized users
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical interaction of typing passwords with NFC wireless communication. The NFC reader detects the NFC tag and automatically retrieves the tag identifier, eliminating the need for manual password entry and reducing authentication time while maintaining security through unique tag identification
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a digital copy of the user's authentication credential in the form of an NFC tag identifier. This identifier is stored in the mobile device's memory and used for automatic authentication, replacing the need for manual password input and enabling rapid, secure access
2Ease of operation
If username and password authentication is used, then user identification is achieved, but unauthorized users may observe and replicate the authentication process
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the observable mechanical action of typing passwords with invisible NFC wireless communication. The NFC reader automatically detects the tag and retrieves the identifier without any visible user input, preventing shoulder surfing and other observation-based attacks while maintaining ease of use
Solution Approach 2:
The NFC tag acts as an intermediary credential between the user and the device. Instead of directly entering a password, the user presents the NFC tag which mediates the authentication process by providing a unique identifier that cannot be easily observed or replicated
3Productivity
If NFC tag authentication is implemented, then quick access is enabled, but the system requires additional NFC components and setup procedures
Solution Approach 1:
The NFC tag is a passive, self-contained credential that requires no power source or complex configuration. It automatically provides its identifier when detected by the NFC reader, eliminating the need for active authentication components in the user's credential and simplifying the overall system
Solution Approach 2:
The tag identifier is pre-stored in the mobile device's memory during an initial setup process. This preliminary action of storing the identifier enables rapid subsequent authentication without requiring repeated setup or complex real-time verification procedures
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
This method provides a secure and efficient authentication process that prevents unauthorized access while allowing quick device access, as the NFC tag identifier is uniquely matched, ensuring only authorized users can unlock the device.
Implementation Method 1
near field communication (NFC) technology by attaching an NFC tag to a commonly carried or worn object
Data Source
AI summary
A mobile computing device is authenticated to a user using an NFC tag embedded within or attached to an object that is commonly carried or worn by the user. The NFC tag may be initially associated when an NFC reader of the device senses the NFC tag and wirelessly retrieves a tag identifier from the tag. The tag identifier is stored for subsequent retrieval. The authentication process begins by positioning the device proximate the object such that the NFC reader of the device retrieves the tag identifier from the NFC tag. In the event that the retrieved tag identifier matches the stored tag identifier, the mobile computing device is unlocked and the user may access the mobile computing device. If the retrieved tag identifier does not match the stored tag identifier, the user is not authenticated and the mobile computing device remains locked.