UICC Device Authorization Logic for Theft Deterrence
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Solution Overview
Problem
Unauthorized use of Universal Integrated Circuit Cards (UICC) in wireless terminals poses a security risk, as they can be easily transferred between devices, leading to unintended usage and additional costs for service providers.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a mechanism within the UICC to restrict operation to specific devices by using logic embedded in its memory to verify attributes from the terminal, ensuring registration only occurs if the device meets predefined rules, thereby preventing unauthorized use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the UICC is made universally compatible with any wireless terminal, then ease of operation and adaptability are improved, but security and control over service usage deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by implementing device-specific attributes and rules within the UICC that are tailored to each authorized terminal. The UICC contains device attributes (such as device ID, terminal type) and rule sets that are locally stored and evaluated, allowing the same UICC to adapt its behavior based on the specific terminal it is inserted into, rather than being universally compatible or strictly locked to one device
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes parameter changes by dynamically evaluating terminal attributes against stored rules and changing the operational state of the UICC accordingly. The system changes parameters such as network registration status, service access permissions, and operational mode based on whether the terminal attributes satisfy the predefined rules, allowing flexible control over UICC functionality
2Reliability
If the UICC is restricted to specific devices only, then security and service control are improved, but adaptability and ease of operation deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies dynamics by making the UICC's operational state changeable based on real-time evaluation of terminal attributes. Rather than being statically locked to one device, the UICC dynamically assesses whether the current terminal satisfies the authorized device rules and adjusts its functionality accordingly, enabling both security control and flexibility across multiple authorized terminals
3Reliability
If device verification rules are implemented in the UICC, then security against unauthorized use is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by pre-configuring the UICC with device attributes and rule sets during manufacturing or initial provisioning. The verification logic, terminal attributes, and authorization rules are established in advance within the UICC memory, allowing the card to perform security verification autonomously without requiring complex external validation systems, thus enhancing security while managing complexity
Data Source
AI summary
Devices and methods are disclosed by which a smart card or UICC that is removably insertable into a wireless terminal will only allow operation in either a specific terminal or a specific set of terminals. A mechanism to restrict the set of terminals that a UICC will operate with based upon logic embedded in a memory within the UICC. The UICC receives specific information from the wireless terminal when the terminal is turned on. If the information received satisfies a plurality of rules or conditions stored within the UICC, the UICC functions normally and the terminal may be registered with the network. If the UICC is inserted in an unsupported terminal, the UICC will refuse to function normally. This provides a deterrent against UICC theft.