SS7 Call Forwarding Detection for Authentication Fraud
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Solution Overview
Problem
Two-factor authentication systems are vulnerable to unauthorized access when one-time codes intended for a user's verification device are intercepted and used by unauthorized individuals, compromising the security of user accounts.
Innovation Solution
A system that utilizes SS7 call forwarding information to detect potential fraud by analyzing call forwarding configurations for a user's telecommunication network, determining if the configuration indicates fraudulent activity, and adjusting the authentication process accordingly, such as performing alternative authentication methods or denying access.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If two-factor authentication is implemented using one-time codes sent to a verification device, then account security is improved, but the system becomes vulnerable to interception and unauthorized access
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary actions by checking call forwarding status and analyzing communication patterns before completing the authentication process. This allows the system to detect potential interception attempts in advance and take preventive measures, such as requiring additional verification or blocking suspicious authentication attempts.
Solution Approach 2:
The system implements feedback mechanisms by continuously monitoring communication channels, analyzing call forwarding configurations, and evaluating authentication patterns. This feedback loop enables the system to dynamically adjust security measures based on detected anomalies, improving protection against interception while maintaining legitimate authentication flows.
2Measurement precision
If call forwarding detection is added to the authentication process, then fraud detection capability is improved, but system complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system introduces an intermediary fraud detection module that specializes in analyzing call forwarding configurations and communication patterns. This separate component interfaces with the main authentication system, providing fraud assessment services without requiring deep integration into the core authentication logic, thus managing complexity while enhancing detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The authentication system is segmented into distinct functional modules: one-time code generation, call forwarding detection, communication pattern analysis, and authentication decision-making. This segmentation allows each module to be developed, tested, and maintained independently, reducing overall system complexity while enabling sophisticated fraud detection through coordinated module interactions.
Data Source
AI summary
A user authentication system that analyzes call forwarding information obtained from telecommunication networks, such as through the use of Signaling System No. 7 (“SS7”) protocols, to detect the possibility of fraud. In response to a request to access a network-accessible service, the system performs an initial authentication of provided user account credentials. The system then obtains a telecommunication subscriber identifier that is associated with the user account. Prior to performing additional device-based user authentication, the system obtains call forwarding information for the user. The obtained call forwarding information is then evaluated for potentially fraudulent call forwarding configurations. For example, call forwarding to certain call forwarding numbers, or the use of different call forwarding types, may be indicative of fraud intended to undermine further user authentication.