Transaction Code Obfuscation via Proximity Detection
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Digital devices are vulnerable to code image theft during transactions, as displayed code images can be captured by malicious devices with camera functionality, leading to potential false authentication and unauthorized access or transactions.
Innovation Solution
Implementing an obfuscation method on a computing device that blurs or blocks the code image until the device is in close proximity to the scanning device, deactivating obfuscation only when the pre-determined threshold distance is met, ensuring secure display and transmission of the code image for transaction verification.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If code image is displayed on device screen for transaction authentication, then authentication function is enabled, but code image can be captured by malicious devices with camera functionality
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by implementing obfuscation measures before the code image is displayed. The system detects the presence of a scanning device and preemptively applies distortion or filtering to the code image, preventing malicious capture while allowing legitimate scanning when the device is in proper proximity for authentication
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by making different parts of the code image have different properties. The obfuscation is applied selectively - the code image is distorted or filtered in certain regions while remaining clear in other regions, allowing legitimate scanners to read the code while preventing unauthorized capture
2Reliability
If obfuscation action is applied to code image, then code image protection is improved, but code image cannot be scanned for transaction completion
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the obfuscation state changeable based on detected conditions. The code image transitions between obfuscated and clear states dynamically - it starts obfuscated for protection, then becomes clear when a legitimate scanning device is detected at the appropriate distance, enabling transaction completion
3Reliability
If device proximity detection is implemented, then secure display timing is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies mechanics substitution by replacing complex mechanical distance measurement systems with simpler sensor-based detection. The system uses available sensors (camera, accelerometer, GPS, or other proximity sensors) to estimate device proximity rather than requiring precise mechanical measurement, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining security
Data Source
AI summary
One or more processors performing an obfuscation action on a display of a first computing device subsequent to activating a transaction application of the first computing device. The method includes one or more processors measuring a distance between the first computing device and a second computing device, wherein the display of the first computing device is directed towards the second computing device. The method further includes the one or more processors determining whether the distance between the first computing device and the second computing device meets a pre-determined threshold distance. In response to determining the distance between the first computing device and the second computing device does meet the pre-determined threshold distance, the method further includes the one or more processors deactivating the obfuscation action on the display of the first computing device and displaying an authorization image directed to the second computing device.