Secure User Consent Transmission in 5G Location Services
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current 5G mobile communication systems lack a standardized method for securely transmitting user consent for location information, particularly in satellite-based networks, which can lead to incorrect PLMN selection and potential tampering of user consent data.
Innovation Solution
A method and apparatus for managing user consent in 5G networks involve transmitting assistance information and a radio resource control (RRC) message containing user consent from User Equipment (UE) to a network entity, with options for secure or non-secure transmission based on configuration, and re-transmitting consent after security establishment to verify its validity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If user consent is transmitted without security protection, then transmission speed and simplicity are improved, but data security and integrity deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by establishing security context before the actual consent transmission. The network entity sends a security context setup request to the UE, and only after receiving confirmation that security is established does the UE transmit the user consent. This prevents tampering while maintaining efficient transmission by avoiding redundant security steps when already secured.
2Reliability
If user consent is transmitted after security establishment, then data security is improved, but transmission timing and process complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback mechanisms where the network entity sends indication information to the UE about whether security context is established. The UE uses this feedback to determine when to transmit consent. The network also receives feedback through confirmation messages, creating a coordinated timing system that minimizes delays while ensuring security is in place before consent transmission.
3Measurement precision
If network entity requests user consent, then location accuracy is improved, but user privacy and control deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies self-service by giving the UE autonomous control over consent transmission. The UE independently determines whether to transmit user consent based on its own policies and the security context established with the network. This empowers the user device to control its own data sharing while maintaining location accuracy when needed, preventing forced data collection.
4Area of stationary object
If satellite-based networks are used, then coverage area is improved, but signal interference and PLMN selection errors increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces the user consent mechanism as an intermediary verification step between satellite signal reception and PLMN selection. Before the network acts on location information derived from satellite signals, it first verifies user consent through the secure transmission protocol. This intermediary check ensures that even if satellite signals cause PLMN selection errors, the system can verify user authorization before proceeding.
Data Source
AI summary
The disclosure relates to a 5G or 6G communication system for supporting a higher data transmission rate. The present invention relates to User Equipment, UE, location information and more particular to improvements in sending said UE location information to a network, particularly in a secure manner.