Password Reset Tool with Network Access Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Internet Service Providers face a high volume of customer service calls due to forgotten passwords, leading to a significant burden on their departments and associated costs.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a password reset tool that redirects users to a secure 'sandbox' network where they can enter verification information and set a new password, blocking access to all other network services until the reset is complete, thereby reducing the need for customer service intervention.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If a password reset tool is implemented with user redirection and network access blocking, then password reset efficiency is improved and customer service calls are reduced, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into two distinct operational modes: a restricted password reset mode and a full network access mode. The password reset tool operates as a separate, isolated system component that handles authentication independently from the main network services. This segmentation allows the password reset functionality to be implemented without significantly impacting the overall network system architecture.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary authentication mechanism that mediates between the user and the network services. When a user attempts to access network services, the system intercepts the authentication request and redirects it to the password reset tool if needed. This intermediary process manages the transition between restricted and full access modes without requiring complex system-wide changes.
2Reliability
If users are blocked from network access during password reset, then security is improved, but user convenience deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary authentication verification before blocking network access. When a user attempts to access network services, the system first checks if password reset is needed by verifying authentication credentials. Only after this preliminary check confirms the need for password reset does the system block network access and redirect to the password reset tool. This preliminary action ensures that legitimate users are identified before restrictions are applied.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of allowing network access and then securing it, the patent inverts the approach by first establishing a secure authentication checkpoint before granting any network access. The system reverses the traditional flow by requiring authentication verification first, then deciding whether to grant access or redirect to password reset. This inversion prioritizes security while maintaining user convenience through automated redirection rather than manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
Resetting a password for a network service account may include redirecting the user to a password reset tool, wherein the user is blocked from network access other than the password reset tool while being redirected. After redirecting the user to the password reset tool, user entry of verification information may be accepted, and the verification information from the user may be compared with known verification information for the user. User entry of a new password may be accepted if the verification information accepted from the user matches the known verification information for the user; and the new password may be stored as the known password for the user. Related systems and computer-program products are also discussed.