Robocall Filtering via Challenge Messages
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing solutions for filtering out robocalls from incoming calls are not effective in distinguishing between robocalls and human calls, leading to the loss of important calls.
Innovation Solution
An electronic device and method that uses a three-step approach to identify and filter out robocalls by transmitting challenge messages to caller devices, determining caller identification, and controlling calls based on pre-stored call settings.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If blacklists or whitelists are used to filter robocalls, then robocalls can be identified and filtered out, but important human calls may be lost due to inaccurate distinction
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification system between the blacklist/whitelist filtering and the final call delivery. This intermediary uses challenge messages (CAPTCHA, voice recognition, or SMS verification) to mediate the distinction between robocalls and human calls, thereby improving reliability without sacrificing filtering capability
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms where the response to challenge messages provides information about the caller's nature. The verification result feeds back into the call routing decision, allowing the system to adjust its filtering behavior based on the credibility evidence obtained from the challenge response
2Measurement precision
If multiple challenge messages are transmitted to verify callers, then robocall filtering accuracy improves, but call handling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The verification process is segmented into multiple independent challenge stages rather than one complex verification system. Each challenge message represents a separate, simple verification step that can be independently implemented and managed, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining high verification accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes verification parameters (type of challenge, number of challenges, time intervals) based on the initial filtering results and caller behavior patterns. This dynamic parameter adjustment allows the system to maintain high accuracy while adapting complexity to the specific verification needs of each call
3Object-affected harmful factors
If all incoming calls are verified and filtered, then robocall reception is prevented, but important calls may be blocked due to false positives
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides a cushioning mechanism in the form of challenge messages that do not immediately block calls but rather test the caller. This prior cushioning allows genuine callers to prove their humanity before being blocked, preventing false positives while still stopping robocalls effectively
Solution Approach 2:
The system converts the potential harm of false positives into a benefit by using challenge messages that can distinguish between automated and human callers. The verification process itself becomes a tool that transforms the filtering mechanism from a source of errors into an accurate distinction method
Data Source
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AI summary
An electronic device and method for control of incoming calls based on stored a plurality of call settings is provided. The electronic device receives a first call from a first caller party device associated with a first caller party. The electronic device transmits a first challenge message to the first caller party device based on the received first call. The electronic device further transmits a second challenge message to the first caller party device based on a first call setting of the stored plurality of call settings. The electronic device determines a time of receipt of a second call, different from the first call, received from the first caller party device. The electronic device further controls the second call based on a threshold time period, the determined time of the receipt of the second call, and a second call setting of a stored plurality of call settings.