Vehicle Entry Security via Dual-Protocol Distance Verification
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vehicles using mobile devices for keyless entry and ignition are vulnerable to relay attacks, where intercepted communication signals make the device appear closer than it actually is, potentially tricking the vehicle into unlocking or starting without the user's presence.
Innovation Solution
Implementing a system with a controller that uses Bluetooth low-energy communication to determine a first distance based on signal strength and Wi-Fi communication to determine a second distance based on time-of-flight, comparing these distances to prevent unauthorized access or ignition if they do not match, thereby detecting and preventing relay attacks.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If relay attack detection using multiple communication protocols is implemented, then security against relay attacks is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the distance verification process into two independent protocol-based measurements: Bluetooth low-energy communication for initial distance determination and Wi-Fi communication for secondary verification. Each protocol operates independently and contributes a separate distance measurement, allowing the system to cross-validate results without requiring a complete redesign of the authentication mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediary verification layer that compares distance measurements from two different communication protocols. Rather than directly authenticating the mobile device, the system uses distance consistency as an intermediary criterion to detect relay attacks, adding a verification step that bridges security concerns without fundamentally changing the authentication flow
2Measurement precision
If Wi-Fi communication is used for distance determination, then measurement precision is improved, but energy consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs periodic action by using Bluetooth low-energy communication for continuous, low-power distance monitoring and only activating Wi-Fi communication periodically when secondary verification is needed. This intermittent use of the higher-power Wi-Fi protocol reduces overall energy consumption while maintaining measurement precision when required
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies partial action by using Bluetooth communication for the primary distance determination function and reserving Wi-Fi communication for partial verification purposes only. Rather than using both protocols continuously or relying solely on Wi-Fi, the system uses each protocol to the extent necessary to achieve security goals while minimizing energy expenditure
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively prevents relay attacks by ensuring that the vehicle only unlocks or starts when the mobile device is within accurate proximity, enhancing security and preventing unauthorized access.
Implementation Method 1
determine a first distance to a mobile device utilizing a signal strength of the first protocol communication
Implementation Method 2
determine, upon receiving an entry request, a second distance to the mobile device utilizing a time-of-flight of the second protocol communication
Data Source
AI summary
Method and apparatus are disclosed for mobile device relay attack detection and power management for vehicles. An example vehicle includes a first module for first protocol communication, a second module for second protocol communication, and a controller. The controller is to determine a first distance to a mobile device utilizing a signal strength of the first protocol communication and determine, upon receiving an entry request, a second distance to the mobile device utilizing a time-of-flight of the second protocol communication. The controller also is to prevent entry when the second distance does not match the first distance.