Visual Credential System for Website Operator Authentication
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing online credentials lack direct authentication with website operators, are vulnerable to theft, and may not be properly installed, leading to trust issues and potential security breaches.
Innovation Solution
A method that provides a visual credential image of the website operator and requires a temporary password for issuance, with performance testing to ensure correct installation, and periodic scans to detect changes and vulnerabilities, ensuring only authorized users access the credential.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If a text message is used to convey credential information, then the credential can be displayed on the website, but the credential is easily replicated by malicious actors and lacks direct connection to the website operator
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual copies of the website operator (photographs, logos, or other visual identifiers) instead of text messages. These visual copies are embedded in the credential and can be displayed on the website, providing direct visual connection to the operator while being difficult to replicate without the actual visual material
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a credential provider as an intermediary that issues and manages the visual credentials. This intermediary verifies the website operator's identity before issuing the credential and ensures that only authorized visual materials are used, preventing direct replication by malicious actors
2Reliability
If the credential is made visible to users immediately, then trust value is conveyed, but the user may not be aware of the credential's presence
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses visual elements with distinct appearances (such as colored borders, background colors, or highlighted sections) to make the credential stand out on the website. This visual differentiation ensures that users can easily notice and be aware of the credential's presence without requiring active interaction
3Reliability
If visual credentials are used to establish trust, then direct authentication is achieved, but the credentials are subject to theft and hacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary verification steps where the credential provider verifies the website operator's identity and authorization before issuing the visual credential. This preliminary action ensures that only authorized operators receive credentials, preventing theft and hacking before they can occur
4Ease of manufacture
If credentials are issued without proper installation verification, then issuance is simplified, but the credential may not function correctly or may create website problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms where the credential provider verifies the credential's installation and functionality on the website before final issuance. This feedback loop ensures that the credential is properly installed and will not create website problems, while the process remains streamlined through automated verification
Data Source
AI summary
The invention comprises a method of providing additional assurance regarding a websites authenticity, The assurance is provided by using a credential that contains an image of the website operator or the website operator's business operations. The assurance is also provided by scanning the website associated with the credential for changes and alerting the website operator or a website visitor of the changes. The invention includes a method of ensuring the proper operation of the credential and a method of protecting the credential from mis-issuance.