Offline Mobile Payment via Single-Use Card Numbers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional electronic-Wallet applications lack security and functionality for offline transactions, particularly in mobile environments, exposing users to risks and limiting payment options for merchants.
Innovation Solution
A cloud-based mobile device purchasing system that configures a mobile application to generate and use single or limited use card numbers, which can be downloaded and used for purchases without a Wide Area Network or cellular connection, ensuring security through PIN protection and encrypted storage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional eWallet applications store live PAN information for automated transactions, then transaction convenience is improved, but security is worsened due to risks of skimming and device loss
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the payment process into two distinct phases: (1) initial configuration phase where the mobile device connects to Wi-Fi to download single-use card numbers, and (2) transaction phase where offline purchases are made using these downloaded numbers. This segmentation allows the system to maintain security by never storing live PAN information while enabling convenience through pre-downloaded single-use card numbers that work offline.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements single-use card numbers that are downloaded to the mobile device and then discarded after one transaction. Each card number is valid for only one purchase, eliminating the security risk of storing reusable PAN information while maintaining transaction convenience. The disposable nature of these card numbers ensures that even if the device is lost or compromised, the stolen information cannot be reused.
2Reliability
If cloud-based eWallet requires continuous data connectivity for transactions, then security is improved through centralized control, but functionality is worsened in offline environments
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by requiring the mobile device to download single-use card numbers to local storage before offline transactions are needed. The initial Wi-Fi connection phase pre-provisions the device with transaction-capable card numbers, enabling the device to function autonomously offline while maintaining security through the single-use nature of these numbers. This preliminary provisioning resolves the contradiction by preparing the system in advance for offline operation without compromising security.
3Productivity
If merchants accept multiple payment options including eWallet, then sales volume is improved, but security risks and fees are worsened
Solution Approach 1:
The patent enables merchants to accept single-use card numbers that eliminate security risks and associated fees. Since each card number is valid for only one transaction and cannot be skimmed or reused, merchants gain the ability to process transactions securely without paying the high fees that traditional eWallet providers charge to cover security risks. This allows merchants to expand payment options and increase sales volume without inheriting the security problems of traditional eWallet systems.
Data Source
AI summary
A customer uses a mobile device to acquire a mobile app thereon. The mobile device is configured by a cloud-based service to escrow one or more card numbers mapped by a financial facility to the customer's primary account's number. Further security limitations can be configured into the mobile app by the cloud-based service. Subsequently, the customers uses the mobile app at a point-of-sale location to access one or more of the escrowed card numbers to make purchases; these purchases can be made while the mobile device lacks any connectivity to a network.