NFT-Based Account Authentication Without PIN Entry
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing authentication methods, such as personal identification numbers (PINs), are cumbersome for consumers and vulnerable to attacks, and the infrastructure required for PIN entry can be costly and limited to specific devices.
Innovation Solution
Authentication using a non-fungible token (NFT) is implemented, where a unique identifier is linked to a blockchain address, and a key pair is generated within a secure area of the device, enabling secure and device-independent transactions without the need for PIN entry.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If PIN entry is used for authentication, then transaction security is improved, but device complexity and infrastructure cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical PIN entry system with a cryptographic authentication system using public key infrastructure. Instead of requiring physical keyboard entry and human operator verification, the system uses digital signatures and blockchain technology to authenticate transactions automatically, eliminating the need for expensive PCI-certified hardware and reducing infrastructure costs.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a blockchain network as an intermediary layer between the payment terminal and the authentication system. The blockchain serves as a decentralized ledger that verifies authentication requests without requiring complex centralized infrastructure, reducing device complexity while maintaining security through cryptographic proof of account ownership.
2Reliability
If PIN entry is required for transactions, then account ownership verification is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary binding of public keys to account identifiers before transactions occur. During account setup, the user's public key is registered and associated with their account on the blockchain. This preliminary action eliminates the need for repeated PIN entry, as the pre-registered public key automatically verifies account ownership during transactions, improving ease of operation while maintaining verification reliability.
Solution Approach 2:
The system enables self-service authentication where the user's device automatically performs verification using stored cryptographic keys. Instead of requiring manual PIN entry for each transaction, the device autonomously proves account ownership through digital signatures, making the process both secure and convenient for users.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple cards with different PINs are issued, then account versatility is improved, but ease of operation worsens
Solution Approach 1:
The patent creates a universal authentication mechanism using public key cryptography that works across multiple accounts and devices. Instead of requiring separate PINs for each card, the system uses cryptographic keys that can authenticate multiple accounts, eliminating the need for users to remember multiple PINs while maintaining the ability to access various accounts and services.
Data Source
AI summary
A method may include: receiving an authentication request from a device, the authentication request including a unique identifier; authenticating the authentication request by: retrieving a non-fungible token (NFT) identifier and public key associated with the unique identifier; identifying, from a blockchain, a blockchain address that is an owner of an NFT represented by the NFT identifier; verifying that the blockchain address that is the owner of the NFT is associated with the public key that is associated with the unique identifier; and verifying that a private key stored in a secure area of the device is associated with the public key that is associated with the unique identifier; and after authenticating the authentication request, enabling an operation not available prior to authenticating the authentication request. The unique identifier may be obtained using image recognition or optical character recognition.