Proximity-Based Authentication for Automatic Logoff
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Solution Overview
Problem
Traditional username/password authentication processes are cumbersome and often lead to insecure situations where users forget to log off, leaving systems vulnerable to unauthorized access, prompting the need for more efficient and secure login methods.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of an efficient logon system utilizing radio frequency identification (RFID), near-field communications (NFC), Bluetooth, or other short-range communications to detect user devices and request additional authentication, such as PINs or biometric information, to securely log users into systems, with automatic logoff mechanisms triggered by proximity or calendar events.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional username/password authentication is used, then users can access the system, but the process is cumbersome and users may forget to log off, creating security vulnerabilities
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical interaction of typing username and password with automatic detection technologies (RFID, NFC, Bluetooth, cameras, microphones) that automatically identify users through their devices or biometric characteristics, eliminating manual credential entry and improving both convenience and security
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs automatic user identification and authentication without requiring active user participation in the credential entry process. The detection devices automatically scan for and identify user devices or biometric traits, and the system automatically manages logoff based on detected presence or absence, reducing human error and improving security
2Reliability
If manual username/password entry is required, then authentication can be performed, but user convenience is reduced and security risks increase due to human error
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary detection of user devices or biometric characteristics before authentication is formally required. RFID tags, NFC devices, or biometric data are detected and pre-validated, so that when the user approaches or uses the system, authentication is already prepared or automatically completed, reducing login time while maintaining security
Solution Approach 2:
Manual typing of credentials is replaced with automatic detection and recognition systems that instantly identify users through their devices or physical characteristics, eliminating the time-consuming process of manual entry while enhancing security through more reliable identification methods
3Extent of automation
If automatic detection of user presence is implemented, then logoff can be automated, but additional authentication mechanisms are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs multi-functional detection devices that can perform both authentication and presence detection using the same hardware (RFID readers, NFC antennas, cameras, microphones). These devices serve multiple purposes: identifying user credentials for login and continuously monitoring user presence for automatic logoff, reducing overall system complexity despite the enhanced automation capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
User devices equipped with RFID tags, NFC capabilities, or biometric sensors serve as intermediaries that carry authentication information and presence indicators. These intermediary devices enable the system to automatically authenticate and monitor users without requiring complex centralized verification systems, simplifying the overall architecture while enabling automatic logoff functionality
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 approach enhances security by reducing the need for manual username/password entry, improving user convenience, and automatically managing access based on user presence or absence, thereby minimizing unauthorized access and improving system security.
Implementation Method 1
The efficient logon system may utilize radio frequency identification (RFID), near-field communications (NFC), Bluetooth, or other short-range communications to detect that a user device is near an enterprise device
Implementation Method 2
The efficient logon system may utilize radio frequency identification (RFID), near-field communications (NFC), Bluetooth, or other short-range communications to detect that a user device is near an enterprise device
Data Source
AI summary
The technology described herein detects a first device associated with a user that is within a detectable range of a second device. The system requests authentication information. In response to receiving the authentication information, a token generator associated with the user can generate a secure token. The secure token can be sent to the server. Once the secure token is verified, the user is granted access to one or more services.