Trusted Contact Passcode Recovery for Locked Devices
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Solution Overview
Problem
Users face difficulties in accessing a mobile communication device when it is in a locked state, particularly if they forget or are unaware of the passcode, which prevents them from using essential functions like making calls or accessing emergency contacts.
Innovation Solution
The device enables communication with a designated 'trusted contact' to obtain the passcode by sending a passcode communication request through voice calls, SMS, or other means, allowing the trusted contact to provide the passcode to unlock the device, even when it is in a locked state.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the device is locked to prevent misuse, then security is improved, but the user cannot access functions or make calls even when authorized
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a trusted contact as an intermediary who can verify the user's identity and provide assistance when the user forgets their passcode. This mediator enables authorized access without compromising the security of the locked state, resolving the contradiction between security and ease of operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system performs preliminary verification by checking whether the device is in a locked state with passcode unknown before enabling specific functions. This preliminary action allows the system to selectively enable emergency calls and trusted contact communication while maintaining the locked state, thus balancing security with necessary accessibility.
2Reliability
If the device requires passcode entry to unlock, then security is improved, but the user is prevented from making emergency calls or accessing emergency contacts when forgotten the passcode
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary verification to determine if the device is locked with an unknown passcode, then selectively enables emergency communication functions. This preliminary action allows the device to adapt its functionality based on the user's situation, maintaining security while providing emergency access when needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different access rules to different functions: emergency calls and trusted contact communication are enabled with relaxed restrictions, while other functions remain restricted. This local differentiation of access quality allows emergency capabilities to function independently from the general locked state.
3Reliability
If the device limits passcode entry attempts, then security is improved, but the legitimate user is prevented from accessing the device when they forget the passcode
Solution Approach 1:
The trusted contact serves as a mediator who can verify the user's identity and provide the passcode or alternative access method. This intermediary system prevents permanent lockout while maintaining security against unauthorized access, as the trusted contact is presumably someone the legitimate user would trust but not an unauthorized user.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback by notifying the user when the device is in a locked state with passcode unknown and guiding them through the process of contacting their trusted contact. This feedback loop ensures the user understands their situation and knows the steps to regain access, improving ease of operation while maintaining security.
4Reliability
If the device is locked, then security is improved, but the user cannot search contact lists or access information that could help identify the device if lost
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary verification to determine if the device is locked with an unknown passcode, then selectively enables access to contact information for emergency purposes. This preliminary action allows necessary information access while maintaining the locked state for other functions.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different access rules to different data: contact information and emergency data are made accessible with relaxed restrictions, while other device functions remain restricted. This local differentiation allows users to access critical information for device identification and emergency contact without compromising overall security.
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A~2B
Figure 2C~2D
AI summary
A method, apparatus, user interface and computer program product for detecting an invalid passcode state of a device when the device is in a locked state, prompting a communication from the device to a trusted contact while the device is in the locked state, the trusted contact being designated by the device, and transmitting the communication to the trusted contact with a lost passcode request while the device is in the locked state.