Value Added Module for Roaming Fraud Detection

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current methods for detecting termination bypass fraud in telecommunication networks, such as call generation based methods and previous predictive intelligence solutions, are ineffective due to smart fraudsters detecting test patterns and limitations in virtual subscriber creation, leading to unrealistically high operational costs and reduced scalability, with many MSC/VLRs deviating from standard procedures and not allowing virtual subscriber creation, thereby limiting effective roaming tests.

Innovation Solution

A system and method using a Value Added Module (VAM) that detects location update messages and conducts roaming tests by utilizing real subscribers as roaming agents, obtaining their profile data from the first MSC/VLR, and releasing cancel location messages to manage subscriber profiles across MSC/VLR switches, thereby facilitating comprehensive roaming tests and fraud detection.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If call generation based methods are used for bypass detection, then fraud detection capability is improved, but operational cost and complexity increase due to need for multiple test numbers and manual management

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvefraud detection capabilityVSAvoidoperational complexity

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The system uses real roaming subscribers to automatically perform fraud detection tests by initiating calls through different MSC/VLR combinations. The subscribers unwittingly serve as test agents, eliminating the need for manual management of test numbers and reducing operational complexity while maintaining detection capability

Inventive Principle:

Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

Real roaming subscribers are utilized for multiple purposes: their normal communication needs are satisfied while simultaneously serving as fraud detection test subjects. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate test number management and reduces overall system complexity

Inventive Principle:

Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Adaptability or versatility

If virtual subscribers are created in HLR for roaming tests, then test coverage is improved, but compatibility with non-standard MSC/VLRs deteriorates as many systems do not allow virtual subscriber creation

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvetest coverageVSAvoidsystem compatibility

Core Design Contradiction:

Adaptability or versatilityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

Instead of creating virtual subscribers in HLR (top-down approach), the system inverts the approach by using real subscribers who already exist in the network. The detection system intercepts and utilizes their location update messages, avoiding compatibility issues with non-standard MSC/VLRs that don't support virtual subscriber creation

Inventive Principle:

Principle #13The other way round (Inversion)

Solution Approach 2:

The system introduces an intermediary detection module that sits between the subscriber and the network elements. This intermediary captures location update messages and coordinates tests without requiring modifications to MSC/VLR or HLR systems, ensuring compatibility across different network implementations

Inventive Principle:

Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

3Reliability

If real subscribers are used as roaming agents, then system compatibility is improved, but subscriber privacy and network load concerns worsen

Engineering Contradiction:

Improvesystem compatibilityVSAvoidnetwork load and privacy concerns

Core Design Contradiction:

ReliabilityVSObject-affected harmful factors

Solution Approach 1:

The system performs only the minimal necessary actions for fraud detection using real subscribers. It intercepts location update messages and conducts limited testing without fully utilizing subscriber resources, thereby reducing network load and privacy concerns while maintaining compatibility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #16Partial or excessive action

Solution Approach 2:

The system implements feedback mechanisms to monitor network load and subscriber behavior during testing. Based on feedback, it adjusts testing intensity and frequency, ensuring that real subscribers are not overloaded and privacy concerns are addressed while maintaining system compatibility

Inventive Principle:

Principle #23Feedback

Data Source

PatentEP2730107B1Value added module in predictive intelligence

Publication Date: 2019.10.09 MOBILEUM INC

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AI summary

The present invention is provides towards a method and system for facilitating roaming tests for an operator in a telecommunication network. The method includes detecting a location update message of a subscriber to an HLR while switching from a first MSG/VLR to a second MSG/VLR, The method further includes holding by a value added module, a cancel location message being sent from the HLR to the first MSG/VLR. The method further includes conducting the roaming tests by the value added module, using the subscriber' s profile data obtained from the first MSG/VLR. Further in the method the value added module releases the cancel location message to the first MSC/VLR.