Contactless Payment Device Actuator Gesture Security
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Solution Overview
Problem
Contactless payment devices are vulnerable to wireless attacks that can capture user or account information due to the lack of authentication in their passive electronic circuitry, which can be activated by spoofing signals, compromising security, especially in crowded areas.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating an actuator and accelerometer in contactless payment devices that activate or deactivate the wireless communication circuitry based on user input, such as specific gestures, to prevent unauthorized activation and ensure secure transactions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If passive electronic circuitry is used in contactless payment devices, then convenience is improved by avoiding embedded power sources, but security deteriorates due to vulnerability to spoofing signals and wireless attacks
Solution Approach 1:
A blocking device is introduced as an intermediary between the contactless payment device and potential attackers. This blocking device contains electromagnetic blocking material that selectively blocks wireless signals from attackers while allowing legitimate payment terminal signals to pass through, thus protecting the passive circuitry without requiring embedded power sources
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a protected electromagnetic environment by surrounding the passive electronic circuitry with electromagnetic blocking material. This forms an 'inert' electromagnetic atmosphere that prevents harmful spoofing signals from activating the circuitry, while still allowing legitimate transactions to occur when the device is properly positioned at a payment terminal
2Reliability
If electromagnetic blocking devices are used to prevent wireless attacks, then security is improved, but convenience deteriorates due to requiring removal from storage before use
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking device is merged with the contactless payment device by integrating the blocking material directly into the payment device housing or wallet. This combination eliminates the need for separate blocking storage devices and allows the blocking function to operate automatically without requiring user intervention to remove or attach separate blocking components
Solution Approach 2:
The integrated blocking device automatically performs its protective function without requiring user action. The blocking material continuously protects the payment device when stored, and automatically allows legitimate signals through when the device is positioned at a payment terminal, eliminating the need for manual removal or activation steps
3Reliability
If close proximity requirements are enforced to minimize attack risk, then security is improved, but vulnerability increases in crowded areas where signal range expansion attacks can occur
Solution Approach 1:
The blocking device provides localized electromagnetic protection specifically at the contactless payment device, rather than requiring control over the entire surrounding environment. The blocking material is positioned to create a localized shield around the passive circuitry, allowing legitimate close-proximity transactions while blocking distant spoofing signals that attempt to expand their range in crowded areas
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 solution enhances the security of contactless payment methods by seamlessly activating or deactivating the wireless circuitry using typical user interactions, preventing wireless attacks while maintaining the convenience of contactless payments.
Implementation Method 1
an accelerometer communicatively coupled to the processor and the power source
Data Source
AI summary
A contactless payment device including a wireless communication device; a power source; a processor coupled to the power source; an accelerometer communicatively coupled to the processor and the power source; and an actuator communicatively coupled to the wireless communication device and the processor. The actuator is configured to activate the wireless communication device when the actuator is set in a closed state, and deactivate the wireless communication device when the actuator is set in an open state. The processor is configured to receive an incoming signal from the accelerometer; determine whether the incoming signal corresponds to a pre-programmed signal corresponding to an enabling gesture; and set the actuator in the closed state for a time interval, when the incoming signal corresponds to the enabling gesture.