Detecting Pirated Devices in Content Delivery Networks
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current systems for detecting and preventing compromised devices and unauthorized device relocation in communication networks are inadequate, as they fail to effectively identify and counteract pirated computing devices and unauthorized relocations, leading to unauthorized access and content theft.
Innovation Solution
A method and system that involve identifying pirated computing devices by transmitting alternate commands and analyzing responses, comparing device data records with service device information, and confirming unauthorized relocations by tracking location changes, with interference measures such as alternate commands to disrupt access or connectivity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conditional access systems are used to restrict access to content, then content security is improved, but compromised devices can bypass the system and access content unauthorized
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by continuously monitoring device characteristics, location data, and operational patterns before unauthorized access occurs. Baseline profiles are established for legitimate devices, enabling early detection of compromise indicators such as location mismatches or abnormal behavior patterns.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by analyzing responses to test commands and continuously comparing device behavior against expected patterns. When deviations are detected (such as unauthorized location changes or abnormal command responses), the system provides feedback to trigger interference actions like service suspension or device blocking.
2Reliability
If device relocation is monitored to prevent unauthorized usage, then service protection is improved, but legitimate device movement cannot be accommodated
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies local quality by differentiating between legitimate and illegitimate relocation through location analysis. Geographic information, service address matching, and location history are used to determine whether a device movement is authorized. Legitimate moves within expected geographic areas are permitted, while moves to unauthorized locations trigger interference actions.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements dynamics by allowing device location to change over time within authorized parameters. The monitoring system dynamically adjusts to legitimate relocation while maintaining protection against unauthorized usage. Device mobility is permitted when accompanied by proper authentication or when moving to authorized locations, but restricted when indicating compromise.
3Measurement precision
If test commands are transmitted to detect pirated devices, then detection accuracy is improved, but network traffic and processing load increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by transmitting test commands selectively rather than continuously to all devices. Test commands are sent based on risk indicators such as location anomalies, behavioral patterns, or suspicious activity. This reduces network traffic while maintaining detection accuracy for compromised devices that exhibit abnormal responses to the selective test commands.
Data Source
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AI summary
Systems and methods for detecting and interfering with compromised devices and unauthorized device relocation in a communication network are disclosed. The described embodiments may be deployed in a content delivery network where receivers have been compromised in a manner that renders the conditional access system (CAS) inoperative at controlling the receivers' ability to receive content. In some embodiments, alternate commands not protected by the CAS system may be used to detect hacked devices and interdict same. In some embodiments, service devices in the content delivery network may allow for detection of unauthorized device relocation.