U.S. patent application number 16/709390 was filed with the patent office on 2020-12-24 for system and method for universal mobile device lock using blockchain.
The applicant listed for this patent is Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.. Invention is credited to Kantha Kumar Kanchiraju, Sheng Qiang.
Application Number | 20200404483 16/709390 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005261190 |
Filed Date | 2020-12-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20200404483 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Qiang; Sheng ; et
al. |
December 24, 2020 |
SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR UNIVERSAL MOBILE DEVICE LOCK USING
BLOCKCHAIN
Abstract
A method for activating an electronic device includes receiving
a request to activate the electronic device. The method also
includes determining whether activation of the electronic device is
permitted according to a device status record associated with the
electronic device in a blockchain. In addition, the method includes
one of: proceeding with the activation of the electronic device in
response to determining that the activation of the electronic
device is permitted according to the device status record in the
blockchain and blocking the activation of the electronic device in
response to determining that the activation of the electronic
device is not permitted according to the device status record in
the blockchain.
Inventors: |
Qiang; Sheng; (Lenexa,
KS) ; Kanchiraju; Kantha Kumar; (Overland Park,
KS) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. |
Suwon-si |
|
KR |
|
|
Family ID: |
1000005261190 |
Appl. No.: |
16/709390 |
Filed: |
December 10, 2019 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62863420 |
Jun 19, 2019 |
|
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|
Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
H04W 12/08 20130101;
H04L 9/0637 20130101; H04W 8/183 20130101; H04W 8/205 20130101;
H04L 2209/38 20130101 |
International
Class: |
H04W 8/20 20060101
H04W008/20; H04W 8/18 20060101 H04W008/18; H04L 9/06 20060101
H04L009/06; H04W 12/08 20060101 H04W012/08 |
Claims
1. A method for activating an electronic device, the method
comprising: receiving a request to activate the electronic device;
determining whether activation of the electronic device to access a
mobile operator network is permitted according to a device status
record associated with the electronic device in a blockchain; and
one of: proceeding with the activation of the electronic device in
response to determining that the activation of the electronic
device is permitted according to the device status record in the
blockchain; or blocking the activation of the electronic device in
response to determining that the activation of the electronic
device is not permitted according to the device status record in
the blockchain.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein determining whether the
activation of the electronic device is permitted comprises:
transmitting a query to a blockchain platform with an identifier
associated with the electronic device; and receiving a response
from the blockchain platform indicating whether the activation of
the electronic device is permitted based on the device status
record, the device status record associated with the
identifier.
3. The method of claim 1, further comprising: determining whether
the activation of the electronic device is permitted according to a
mobile operator; and one of: activating the electronic device in
response to determining that the activation of the electronic
device is permitted according to the mobile operator, or blocking
the activation of the electronic device in response to determining
that the activation of the electronic device is not permitted
according to the mobile operator.
4. The method of claim 1, wherein the device status record
associated with the electronic device in the blockchain comprises a
device status record indicating whether the electronic device is
locked to a specific carrier or is unlocked.
5. The method of claim 4, wherein the device status record
comprises an electronic device identifier, a mobile operator
identifier, and a lock status.
6. The method of claim 4, wherein the device status record is based
on a transaction between an original equipment manufacturer and a
mobile operator.
7. The method of claim 4, wherein the device status record is based
on a transaction between a mobile operator and a user.
8. An electronic device comprising: at least one memory; and at
least one processor operatively connected to the at least one
memory and configured to: receive a request to activate the
electronic device; determine whether activation of the electronic
device to access a mobile operator network is permitted according
to a device status record associated with the electronic device in
a blockchain; proceed with the activation of the electronic device
in response to determining that the activation of the electronic
device is permitted according to the device status record in the
blockchain; and block the activation of the electronic device in
response to determining that the activation of the electronic
device is not permitted according to the device status record in
the blockchain.
9. The electronic device of claim 8, wherein, to determine whether
the activation of the electronic device is permitted, the at least
one processor is configured to: transmit a query to a blockchain
platform with an identifier associated with the electronic device;
and receive a response from the blockchain platform indicating
whether the activation of the electronic device is permitted based
on the device status record, the device status record associated
with the identifier.
10. The electronic device of claim 8, wherein the at least one
processor is further configured to: determine whether the
activation of the electronic device is permitted according to a
mobile operator; activate the electronic device in response to
determining that the activation of the electronic device is
permitted according to the mobile operator; and block the
activation of the electronic device in response to determining that
the activation of the electronic device is not permitted according
to the mobile operator.
11. The electronic device of claim 8, wherein the device status
record associated with the electronic device in the blockchain
comprises a device status record indicating whether the electronic
device is locked to a specific carrier or is unlocked.
12. The electronic device of claim 11, wherein the device status
record comprises an electronic device identifier, a mobile operator
identifier, and a lock status.
13. The electronic device of claim 11, wherein the device status
record is based on a transaction between an original equipment
manufacturer and a mobile operator.
14. The electronic device of claim 11, wherein the device status
record is based on a transaction between a mobile operator and a
user.
15. A method for verifying an activation status of an electronic
device, the method comprising: receiving a request to activate the
electronic device; accessing a blockchain to identify a device
status record associated with the electronic device in the
blockchain; determining whether activation of the electronic device
to access a mobile operator network is permitted according to the
device status record associated with the electronic device in the
blockchain; and transmitting a response to the request, the
response indicating whether the activation of the electronic device
is permitted.
16. The method of claim 15, further comprising: receiving a second
request to activate the electronic device from a mobile operator;
determining whether activation of the electronic device is
permitted; and transmitting a second response to the mobile
operator, the second response indicating whether the activation of
the electronic device is permitted.
17. The method of claim 15, further comprising: generating device
status records for the blockchain, the device status records based
on transactions between original equipment manufacturers and mobile
operators and based on transactions between the mobile operators
and users.
18. The method of claim 15, wherein the device status record
associated with the electronic device in the blockchain comprises a
device status record indicating whether the electronic device is
locked to a specific carrier or is unlocked.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein the device status record
comprises an electronic device identifier, a mobile operator
identifier, and a lock status.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein the device status record is
based on a transaction between an original equipment manufacturer
and a mobile operator.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION AND PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This application claims priority under 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
119(e) to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/863,420 filed
on Jun. 19, 2019, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] This disclosure relates generally to communication systems.
More specifically, this disclosure relates to a system and method
for universal mobile device lock using blockchain.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Mobile devices, such as handsets, smartphones, tablets, and
wearables, typically use a physical Subscriber Identity Module
(SIM) card to gain access to a specific communication network. The
SIM card contains a unique reference number that identifies the SIM
card and a subscription of the SIM card. In order to authenticate a
mobile device and gain access to a communications network, a mobile
operator (such as a network provider or carrier) typically verifies
the information on the mobile device's SIM card.
[0004] An original equipment manufacturer (OEM) may manufacture
mobile devices and distribute them with SIM cards that are linked
to specific mobile operators, or mobile operators may insert their
own SIM cards into the mobile devices prior to sale. However, since
a SIM card is often removable, the SIM card in a mobile device for
one mobile operator can often be easily replaced with a SIM card
for a different mobile operator. This is particularly problematic
when mobile devices are sold by mobile operators with a subsidy,
meaning the mobile devices are given away for free or sold at a
discount. The mobile operators typically do this under an agreement
that a subscriber will pay monthly for a mobile device over a given
time period. Unfortunately, some subscribers will obtain mobile
devices under these types of agreements, sell the mobile devices,
and then break their agreements by not paying.
SUMMARY
[0005] This disclosure provides a system and method for universal
mobile device lock using blockchain.
[0006] In a first embodiment, a method for activating an electronic
device includes receiving a request to activate the electronic
device. The method also includes determining whether activation of
the electronic device is permitted according to a device status
record associated with the electronic device in a blockchain. In
addition, the method includes (i) proceeding with the activation of
the electronic device in response to determining that the
activation of the electronic device is permitted according to the
device status record in the blockchain or (ii) blocking the
activation of the electronic device in response to determining that
the activation of the electronic device is not permitted according
to the device status record in the blockchain. A non-transitory
medium may contain instructions that, when executed by at least one
processor of an electronic device, cause the electronic device to
perform the method of the first embodiment.
[0007] In a second embodiment, an electronic device includes at
least one memory and at least one processor. The at least one
processor is configured to receive a request to activate the
electronic device. The at least one processor is also configured to
determine whether activation of the electronic device is permitted
according to a device status record associated with the electronic
device in a blockchain. The at least one processor is further
configured to proceed with the activation of the electronic device
in response to determining that the activation of the electronic
device is permitted according to the device status record in the
blockchain. In addition, the at least one processor is configured
to block the activation of the electronic device in response to
determining that the activation of the electronic device is not
permitted according to the device status record in the
blockchain.
[0008] In a third embodiment, a method for verifying an activation
status of an electronic device includes receiving a request to
activate the electronic device. The method also includes accessing
a blockchain to identify a device status record associated with the
electronic device in the blockchain. The method further includes
determining whether activation of the electronic device is
permitted according to the device status record associated with the
electronic device in the blockchain. In addition, the method
includes transmitting a response to the request, the response
indicating whether the activation of the electronic device is
permitted. An electronic device may include at least one memory and
at least one processor configured to perform the method of the
third embodiment. Also, a non-transitory medium may contain
instructions that, when executed by at least one processor of an
electronic device, cause the electronic device to perform the
method of the third embodiment.
[0009] Before undertaking the DETAILED DESCRIPTION below, it may be
advantageous to set forth definitions of certain words and phrases
used throughout this patent document. The terms "transmit,"
"receive," and "communicate," as well as derivatives thereof,
encompass both direct and indirect communication. The terms
"include" and "comprise," as well as derivatives thereof, mean
inclusion without limitation. The term "or" is inclusive, meaning
and/or. The phrase "associated with," as well as derivatives
thereof, means to include, be included within, interconnect with,
contain, be contained within, connect to or with, couple to or
with, be communicable with, cooperate with, interleave, juxtapose,
be proximate to, be bound to or with, have, have a property of,
have a relationship to or with, or the like.
[0010] Moreover, various functions described below can be
implemented or supported by one or more computer programs, each of
which is formed from computer readable program code and embodied in
a computer readable medium. The terms "application" and "program"
refer to one or more computer programs, software components, sets
of instructions, procedures, functions, objects, classes,
instances, related data, or a portion thereof adapted for
implementation in a suitable computer readable program code. The
phrase "computer readable program code" includes any type of
computer code, including source code, object code, and executable
code. The phrase "computer readable medium" includes any type of
medium capable of being accessed by a computer, such as read only
memory (ROM), random access memory (RAM), a hard disk drive, a
compact disc (CD), a digital video disc (DVD), or any other type of
memory. A "non-transitory" computer readable medium excludes wired,
wireless, optical, or other communication links that transport
transitory electrical or other signals. A non-transitory computer
readable medium includes media where data can be permanently stored
and media where data can be stored and later overwritten, such as a
rewritable optical disc or an erasable memory device.
[0011] As used here, terms and phrases such as "have," "may have,"
"include," or "may include" a feature (like a number, function,
operation, or component such as a part) indicate the existence of
the feature and do not exclude the existence of other features.
Also, as used here, the phrases "A or B," "at least one of A and/or
B," or "one or more of A and/or B" may include all possible
combinations of A and B. For example, "A or B," "at least one of A
and B," and "at least one of A or B" may indicate all of (1)
including at least one A, (2) including at least one B, or (3)
including at least one A and at least one B. Further, as used here,
the terms "first" and "second" may modify various components
regardless of importance and do not limit the components. These
terms are only used to distinguish one component from another. For
example, a first user device and a second user device may indicate
different user devices from each other, regardless of the order or
importance of the devices. A first component may be denoted a
second component and vice versa without departing from the scope of
this disclosure.
[0012] It will be understood that, when an element (such as a first
element) is referred to as being (operatively or communicatively)
"coupled with/to" or "connected with/to" another element (such as a
second element), it can be coupled or connected with/to the other
element directly or via a third element. In contrast, it will be
understood that, when an element (such as a first element) is
referred to as being "directly coupled with/to" or "directly
connected with/to" another element (such as a second element), no
other element (such as a third element) intervenes between the
element and the other element.
[0013] As used here, the phrase "configured (or set) to" may be
interchangeably used with the phrases "suitable for," "having the
capacity to," "designed to," "adapted to," "made to," or "capable
of" depending on the circumstances. The phrase "configured (or set)
to" does not essentially mean "specifically designed in hardware
to." Rather, the phrase "configured to" may mean that a device can
perform an operation together with another device or parts. For
example, the phrase "processor configured (or set) to perform A, B,
and C" may mean a generic-purpose processor (such as a CPU or
application processor) that may perform the operations by executing
one or more software programs stored in a memory device or a
dedicated processor (such as an embedded processor) for performing
the operations.
[0014] The terms and phrases as used here are provided merely to
describe some embodiments of this disclosure but not to limit the
scope of other embodiments of this disclosure. It is to be
understood that the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include
plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
All terms and phrases, including technical and scientific terms and
phrases, used here have the same meanings as commonly understood by
one of ordinary skill in the art to which the embodiments of this
disclosure belong. It will be further understood that terms and
phrases, such as those defined in commonly-used dictionaries,
should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with
their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be
interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly
so defined here. In some cases, the terms and phrases defined here
may be interpreted to exclude embodiments of this disclosure.
[0015] Examples of an "electronic device" according to embodiments
of this disclosure may include at least one of a smartphone, a
tablet personal computer (PC), a mobile phone, a video phone, an
e-book reader, a desktop PC, a laptop computer, a netbook computer,
a workstation, a personal digital assistant (PDA), a portable
multimedia player (PMP), an MP3 player, a mobile medical device, a
camera, or a wearable device (such as smart glasses, a head-mounted
device (HMD), electronic clothes, an electronic bracelet, an
electronic necklace, an electronic accessory, an electronic tattoo,
a smart mirror, or a smart watch). Other examples of an electronic
device include a smart home appliance. Examples of the smart home
appliance may include at least one of a television, a digital video
disc (DVD) player, an audio player, a refrigerator, an air
conditioner, a cleaner, an oven, a microwave oven, a washer, a
drier, an air cleaner, a set-top box, a home automation control
panel, a security control panel, a TV box (such as SAMSUNG
HOMESYNC, APPLETV, or GOOGLE TV), a smart speaker or speaker with
an integrated digital assistant (such as SAMSUNG GALAXY HOME, APPLE
HOMEPOD, or AMAZON ECHO), a gaming console (such as an XBOX,
PLAYSTATION, or NINTENDO), an electronic dictionary, an electronic
key, a camcorder, or an electronic picture frame. Still other
examples of an electronic device include at least one of various
medical devices (such as diverse portable medical measuring devices
(like a blood sugar measuring device, a heartbeat measuring device,
or a body temperature measuring device), a magnetic resource
angiography (MRA) device, a magnetic resource imaging (MM) device,
a computed tomography (CT) device, an imaging device, or an
ultrasonic device), a navigation device, a global positioning
system (GPS) receiver, an event data recorder (EDR), a flight data
recorder (FDR), an automotive infotainment device, a sailing
electronic device (such as a sailing navigation device or a gyro
compass), avionics, security devices, vehicular head units,
industrial or home robots, automatic teller machines (ATMs), point
of sales (POS) devices, or Internet of Things (IoT) devices (such
as a bulb, various sensors, electric or gas meter, sprinkler, fire
alarm, thermostat, street light, toaster, fitness equipment, hot
water tank, heater, or boiler). Other examples of an electronic
device include at least one part of a piece of furniture or
building/structure, an electronic board, an electronic signature
receiving device, a projector, or various measurement devices (such
as devices for measuring water, electricity, gas, or
electromagnetic waves). Note that, according to various embodiments
of this disclosure, an electronic device may be one or a
combination of the above-listed devices. According to some
embodiments of this disclosure, the electronic device may be a
flexible electronic device. The electronic device disclosed here is
not limited to the above-listed devices and may include new
electronic devices depending on the development of technology.
[0016] In the following description, electronic devices are
described with reference to the accompanying drawings, according to
various embodiments of this disclosure. As used here, the term
"user" may denote a human or another device (such as an artificial
intelligent electronic device) using the electronic device.
[0017] Definitions for other certain words and phrases may be
provided throughout this patent document. Those of ordinary skill
in the art should understand that in many if not most instances,
such definitions apply to prior as well as future uses of such
defined words and phrases.
[0018] None of the description in this application should be read
as implying that any particular element, step, or function is an
essential element that must be included in the claim scope. The
scope of patented subject matter is defined only by the claims.
Moreover, none of the claims is intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
112(f) unless the exact words "means for" are followed by a
participle. Use of any other term, including without limitation
"mechanism," "module," "device," "unit," "component," "element,"
"member," "apparatus," "machine," "system," "processor," or
"controller," within a claim is understood by the Applicant to
refer to structures known to those skilled in the relevant art and
is not intended to invoke 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 112(f).
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] For a more complete understanding of this disclosure and its
advantages, reference is now made to the following description,
taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:
[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates an example communication system according
to embodiments of this disclosure;
[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates an example server according to
embodiments of this disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates an example electronic device according to
embodiments of this disclosure;
[0023] FIG. 4 illustrates an example activation process for a
locked electronic device with an original Subscriber Identity
Module (SIM) card according to embodiments of this disclosure;
[0024] FIG. 5 illustrates an example activation process for a
locked electronic device with a replacement SIM card according to
embodiments of this disclosure;
[0025] FIG. 6 illustrates an example activation process for an
unlocked electronic device according to embodiments of this
disclosure;
[0026] FIG. 7 illustrates an example method for activating an
electronic device according to embodiments of this disclosure;
and
[0027] FIG. 8 illustrates an example method for verifying an
activation status of an electronic device according to embodiments
of this disclosure.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0028] FIGS. 1 through 8, discussed below, and the various
embodiments used to describe the principles of this disclosure in
this patent document are by way of illustration only and should not
be construed in any way to limit the scope of the disclosure. Those
skilled in the art will understand that the principles of this
disclosure can be implemented in any suitably arranged system.
[0029] As noted above, Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) cards are
often used to authenticate mobile devices and permit access to
communication networks by mobile operators. However, since a SIM
card is often removable, the SIM card in a mobile device for one
mobile operator can often be easily replaced with a SIM card for a
different mobile operator. This is particularly problematic when
mobile devices are sold by mobile operators with a subsidy, since
some subscribers will obtain subsidized mobile devices, sell the
mobile devices, and then break their agreements.
[0030] While various approaches have been developed to try and
prevent a subsidized mobile device from being unlocked, these
approaches suffer from a number of drawbacks. For example, a
network lock has been used when a mobile device is subsidized at
the time of purchase from a mobile operator, since the mobile
operator does not want the purchaser to be able to take the mobile
device to another mobile operator until the terms of a payment and
subscription contract are fulfilled. However, users have found ways
around network locks due the high financial motivation of unlocking
mobile devices and selling them for illicit profit. For example, a
practice known as "box breaking" involves purchasing a subsidized
mobile device from a retail store, unlocking the device, and
selling the device for a higher price than the subsidized
price.
[0031] To counteract "box breaking," a mobile operator may place a
SIM lock on the device, which involves applying certain
restrictions on the device so that it will only work with the
correct SIM card in a particular region or with a particular mobile
network. A device with a SIM lock can be unlocked by entering an
unlock code on the device as provided by the mobile operator or by
utilizing software on the device that has the ability to unlock the
device. The mobile operator can also transmit a signal with
information over-the-air to unlock the device. However, a SIM lock
is only enforced on the device side (not the network side), so a
SIM lock can be unlocked by a different mobile operator. Also, if
an unlock code is illicitly obtained, the user can unlock the
device. In addition, software weaknesses may allow hackers to build
around and disable restrictions put in place by a SIM lock.
[0032] Another common approach to preventing the unauthorized use
of subsidized mobile devices is to log hacked devices on an
International Mobile Equipment Identity (IMEI) blacklist. The IMEI
blacklist is maintained by the Global System for Mobile
Communications Association (GSMA) and allows mobile operators to
report and check devices in blacklisted status. Unfortunately, not
all operators use the blacklist database, and there is always a
question of accuracy when maintaining such a database.
[0033] This disclosure provides techniques for supporting a
universal device lock on a mobile device using blockchain.
According to embodiments of this disclosure, blockchain technology
is utilized to effectively lock a mobile device to a SIM card, such
as based on region or mobile operator. Blockchain technology
provides impenetrable security because it is nearly impossible to
update or alter an existing record in a blockchain. This is due to
the fact that blockchain technology is de-centralized and has no
single point of failure. An existing blockchain record cannot be
modified without directly impacting all records chained behind it,
and multiple computing nodes typically have access to the
blockchain. Thus, to override a device status record in a
blockchain that indicates a particular mobile device is locked, a
new record needs to be created and added to the blockchain to
overshadow the previous record. Given the distributed nature of
blockchain technology, it is unlikely someone could easily
accomplish this.
[0034] Moreover, the information stored on a mobile device's SIM
card and an identifier of the mobile device, such as a serial
number or IMEI number, can be used to create and verify the
information stored in the blockchain. For example, the SIM card
contains a unique reference number that identifies a mobile
operator and a subscription that accompanies the SIM card. The
subscription is the contract or data plan that the user purchases
from the mobile operator, otherwise known as a network provider or
carrier. The mobile operator can recognize the reference number and
ensure that associated costs incurred are allocated correctly
according to each mobile device in its network. The SIM card also
contains security information in its memory to be used during an
authentication process. In order to ensure the identity of the
mobile device is valid, the mobile operator often issues a
challenge (such as a security question) that only the SIM card can
answer. Once the SIM card is validated, access to the network can
be provided to the mobile device. Mobile operators lock devices to
their networks when the mobile devices are purchased with a
subsidy. That is, a purchaser needs to fulfill the terms of a
contract before a mobile device is unlocked. This ensures that the
mobile device can only be used with one mobile operator such that
the mobile operator will receive the full benefit of subsidizing
the cost of the mobile device to the purchaser. Once the terms of
the contract are met, the mobile operator can unlock the mobile
device or SIM card, and a mobile device with an unlocked SIM card
can be used with any network provider the user chooses.
[0035] In some embodiments, a device status record will be created
in a blockchain using the information from a mobile device's SIM
card, including a lock status. The device status record will also
include an identifier of the mobile device, such as an IMEI number
or serial number. Thus, a mobile operator will be provided with a
high level of security corresponding to the lock status of a mobile
device. A new device status record with a new lock status can only
be added to the blockchain, such as by the mobile operator after
the mobile operator validates the information on the mobile
device's SIM card.
[0036] Also, in some embodiments, activating a mobile device
requires a mobile device and a mobile operator to communicate with
a blockchain platform in order to validate that the mobile device
should be authenticated on the mobile operator's network. For
instance, the mobile device can transmit a query to the blockchain
platform with an identifier associated with the mobile device and
SIM card information. The mobile device may then receive a response
from the blockchain platform indicating whether activation of the
mobile device is permitted based on a device status record
associated with the mobile device in the blockchain. The mobile
operator may also transmit another query to the blockchain platform
using the mobile device identifier and SIM card information in
response to an activation request received from the mobile device.
The mobile operator can receive a response from the blockchain
platform indicating whether activation of the mobile device is
permitted based on the device status record associated with the
mobile device in the blockchain. If the mobile device and the
mobile operator both receive positive responses, the mobile
operator can provide the mobile device with necessary information
to activate the mobile device on the network. However, if one or
both of the mobile operator and the mobile device do not receive
positive responses from the blockchain platform, the mobile device
will not be activated on the network.
[0037] In this way, the techniques described in this disclosure
provide improved locking capabilities for mobile devices. Mobile
operators are able to identify the lock status of a mobile device
in a blockchain, and the distributed nature of the blockchain helps
to prevent unauthorized parties from modifying the lock status of a
device. In addition, both the mobile device and the mobile operator
may access the blockchain in order to identify the lock status of a
device, which helps to prevent someone from merely hacking or
modifying the behavior of the device itself. Note that while often
described here as involving the use of mobile devices and mobile
operators, the techniques described in this disclosure may be used
with any electronic device that receives communication services or
other services from one or more providers. Also note that while
often described here as using a removable SIM card, other
information associated with an electronic device may be used here
(such as an embedded SIM card or other storage device).
[0038] FIG. 1 illustrates an example communication system 100 in
accordance with embodiments of this disclosure. The embodiment of
the system 100 shown in FIG. 1 is for illustration only. Other
embodiments of the system 100 can be used without departing from
the scope of this disclosure.
[0039] The system 100 includes a network 102 that facilitates
communication between various components in the system 100. For
example, the network 102 can communicate Internet Protocol (IP)
packets, frame relay frames, Asynchronous Transfer Mode (ATM)
cells, or other information between network addresses. The network
102 includes one or more local area networks (LANs), metropolitan
area networks (MANs), wide area networks (WANs), all or a portion
of a global network such as the Internet, or any other
communication system or systems at one or more locations.
[0040] In this example, the network 102 facilitates communications
between a server 104 and various client devices 106-114. The client
devices 106-114 may be, for example, a television (TV), a
smartphone, a tablet computer, a laptop, a personal computer, a
wearable device, a head-mounted display (HMD), or the like. The
server 104 can represent one or more servers. Each server 104
includes any suitable computing or processing device that can
provide computing services for one or more client devices, such as
the client devices 106-114. Each server 104 could, for example,
include one or more processing devices, one or more memories
storing instructions and data, and one or more network interfaces
facilitating communication over the network 102. In some
embodiments, at least one server 104 may be associated with at
least one mobile operator, and at least one other server 104 may be
associated with a blockchain platform.
[0041] Each client device 106-114 represents any suitable computing
or processing device that interacts with at least one server (such
as the server 104) or other computing device(s) over the network
102. In this example, the client devices 106-114 include a desktop
computer 106, a TV 107, a mobile telephone or mobile device 108
(such as a smartphone), a PDA 110, a laptop computer 112, and a
tablet computer 114. However, any other or additional client
devices could be used in the system 100. Smartphones represent a
class of mobile devices 108 that are handheld devices with mobile
operating systems and integrated mobile broadband cellular network
connections for voice, short message service (SMS), and Internet
data communications. As described in more detail below, at least
one electronic device (such as any of the client device 106-114)
may interact with a mobile operator and a blockchain platform.
[0042] In this example, some client devices 108-114 communicate
indirectly with the network 102. For example, the client devices
108 and 110 (mobile device 108 and PDA 110, respectively)
communicate via one or more base stations 116, such as cellular
base stations or eNodeBs (eNBs). Also, the client devices 112 and
114 (laptop computer 112 and tablet computer 114, respectively)
communicate via one or more wireless access points 118, such as
IEEE 802.11 wireless access points. Note that these are for
illustration only and that each client device 106-114 could
communicate directly with the network 102 or indirectly with the
network 102 via any suitable intermediate device(s) or
network(s).
[0043] Although FIG. 1 illustrates one example of a communication
system 100, various changes can be made to FIG. 1. For example, the
communication system 100 could include any number of each component
in any suitable arrangement. In general, computing and
communication systems come in a wide variety of configurations, and
FIG. 1 does not limit the scope of this disclosure to any
particular configuration. Also, while FIG. 1 illustrates one
operational environment in which various features disclosed in this
patent document can be used, these features could be used in any
other suitable system.
[0044] FIG. 2 illustrates an example server 200 according to
embodiments of this disclosure. In some embodiments, the server 200
could represent each server 104 in FIG. 1. The server 200 can
represent one or more local servers, one or more remote servers,
clustered computers and components that act as a single pool of
seamless resources, a cloud-based server, a neural network, and the
like. The server 200 can be accessed by one or more of the client
devices 106-114.
[0045] As shown in FIG. 2, the server 200 includes a bus system 205
that supports communication between at least one processing device
210, at least one storage device 215, at least one communications
interface 220, and at least one input/output (I/O) unit 225. The
processing device 210, such as one or more processors, executes
instructions that can be stored in a memory 230. The processing
device 210 can include any suitable number(s) and type(s) of
processors or other devices in any suitable arrangement. Example
types of the processing devices 210 include microprocessors,
microcontrollers, digital signal processors, field programmable
gate arrays, application specific integrated circuits, and discrete
circuitry.
[0046] The memory 230 and a persistent storage 235 are examples of
storage devices 215 that represent any structure(s) capable of
storing and facilitating retrieval of information (such as data,
program code, or other suitable information on a temporary or
permanent basis). The memory 230 can represent a RAM or any other
suitable volatile or non-volatile storage device(s). The persistent
storage 235 can contain one or more components or devices
supporting longer-term storage of data, such as a hard drive, ROM,
Flash memory, or optical disc.
[0047] The communications interface 220 supports communications
with other systems or devices. For example, the communications
interface 220 could include a network interface card or a wireless
transceiver facilitating communications over the network 102. The
communications interface 220 can support communications through any
suitable physical or wireless communication link(s).
[0048] The I/O unit 225 allows for input and output of data. For
example, the I/O unit 225 can provide a connection for user input
through a keyboard, mouse, keypad, touchscreen, or other suitable
input device. The I/O unit 225 can also send output to a display,
printer, or other suitable output device. Note, however, that the
I/O unit 225 can be omitted, such as when I/O interactions with the
server 200 occur via a network connection.
[0049] Note that while FIG. 2 is described as representing the
server 104 of FIG. 1, the same or similar structure could be used
in one or more of the various client devices 106-114. For example,
a desktop computer 106 or a laptop computer 112 could have the same
or similar structure as that shown in FIG. 2.
[0050] FIG. 3 illustrates an example electronic device 300
according to embodiments of this disclosure. In some embodiments,
the electronic device 300 could represent one or more of the client
devices 106-114 in FIG. 1. The electronic device 300 can be used to
access one or more servers 104, 200.
[0051] As shown in FIG. 3, the electronic device 300 includes an
antenna 305, a communication unit 310, transmit (TX) processing
circuitry 315, a microphone 320, and receive (RX) processing
circuitry 325. The communication unit 310 can include, for example,
a radio frequency (RF) transceiver, a BLUETOOTH transceiver, a
WI-FI transceiver, a ZIGBEE transceiver, an infrared transceiver,
and the like. The electronic device 300 also includes a speaker
330, a processor 340, an I/O interface (I/O IF) 345, an input 350,
a display 355, a memory 360, and a sensor(s) 365. The memory 360
includes an operating system (OS) 361 and one or more applications
362.
[0052] The communication unit 310 receives, from the antenna 305,
an incoming RF signal transmitted from an access point (such as a
base station, WI-FI router, or Bluetooth device) or other device of
the network 102 (such as a WI-FI, Bluetooth, cellular, 5G, LTE,
LTE-A, WiMAX, or any other type of wireless network). The
communication unit 310 down-converts the incoming RF signal to
generate an intermediate frequency or baseband signal. The
intermediate frequency or baseband signal is sent to the RX
processing circuitry 325 that generates a processed baseband signal
by filtering, decoding, and/or digitizing the baseband or
intermediate frequency signal. The RX processing circuitry 325
transmits the processed baseband signal to the speaker 330 (such as
for voice data) or to the processor 340 for further processing
(such as for web browsing data).
[0053] The TX processing circuitry 315 receives analog or digital
voice data from the microphone 320 or other outgoing baseband data
from the processor 340. The outgoing baseband data can include web
data, e-mail, or interactive video game data. The TX processing
circuitry 315 encodes, multiplexes, and/or digitizes the outgoing
baseband data to generate a processed baseband or intermediate
frequency signal. The communication unit 310 receives the outgoing
processed baseband or intermediate frequency signal from the TX
processing circuitry 315 and up-converts the baseband or
intermediate frequency signal to an RF signal that is transmitted
via the antenna 305.
[0054] The processor 340 can include one or more processors or
other processing devices. The processor 340 can execute
instructions that are stored in a memory 360, such as the OS 361,
in order to control the overall operation of the electronic device
300. For example, the processor 340 could control the reception of
forward channel signals and the transmission of reverse channel
signals by the communication unit 310, the RX processing circuitry
325, and the TX processing circuitry 315 in accordance with
well-known principles. The processor 340 can include any suitable
number(s) and type(s) of processors or other devices in any
suitable arrangement. For example, in some embodiments, the
processor 340 includes at least one microprocessor or
microcontroller. Example types of processor 340 include
microprocessors, microcontrollers, digital signal processors, field
programmable gate arrays, application specific integrated circuits,
and discreet circuitry
[0055] The processor 340 is also capable of executing other
processes and programs resident in the memory 360. The processor
340 can move data into or out of the memory 360 as required by an
executing process. In some embodiments, the processor 340 is
configured to execute a plurality of applications 362 based on the
OS 361 or in response to signals received from external source(s)
or an operator. Example applications 362 can include a camera
application (for still images and videos), a video phone call
application, an email client, a social media client, an SMS
messaging client, a virtual assistant, and the like. The processor
340 is also coupled to the I/O interface 345 that provides the
electronic device 300 with the ability to connect to other devices,
such as client devices 104-116. The I/O interface 345 is the
communication path between these accessories and the processor
340.
[0056] The processor 340 is also coupled to the input 350 and the
display 355. The operator of the electronic device 300 can use the
input 350 to enter data or inputs into the electronic device 300.
Input 350 can be a keyboard, touch screen, mouse, track ball, voice
input, or other device capable of acting as a user interface to
allow a user in interact with electronic device 300. For example,
the input 350 can include voice recognition processing, thereby
allowing a user to input a voice command. As another example, the
input 350 can include a touch panel, a (digital) pen sensor, a key,
or an ultrasonic input device. The touch panel can recognize, for
example, a touch input in at least one scheme, such as a capacitive
scheme, a pressure sensitive scheme, an infrared scheme, or an
ultrasonic scheme. The input 350 can be associated with the
sensor(s) 365 and/or a camera by providing additional input to the
processor 340. In some embodiments, the sensor 365 includes one or
more inertial measurement units (IMUs) (such as accelerometers,
gyroscope, and magnetometer), motion sensors, optical sensors,
cameras, pressure sensors, heart rate sensors, altimeter, and the
like. The input 350 can also include a control circuit. In the
capacitive scheme, the input 350 can recognize touch or
proximity.
[0057] The display 355 can be a liquid crystal display (LCD), a
light emitting diode (LED) display, an organic light emitting diode
(OLED) display, a quantum-dot light emitting diode (QLED) display,
an active matrix OLED (AMOLED), a microelectromechanical systems
(MEMS) display, or an electronic paper display. The display 355 can
also be a depth-aware display, such as a multi-focal display. The
display 355 is able to display, for example, various contents (such
as text, images, videos, icons, or symbols) to the user. The
display 355 can include a touchscreen and may receive, for example,
a touch, gesture, proximity, or hovering input using an electronic
pen or a body portion of the user.
[0058] The memory 360 is coupled to the processor 340. Part of the
memory 360 could include a RAM, and another part of the memory 360
could include a Flash memory or other ROM. The memory 360 can
include persistent storage that represents any structure(s) capable
of storing and facilitating retrieval of information (such as data,
program code, and/or other suitable information).
[0059] The electronic device 300 further includes one or more
sensors 365 that can meter a physical quantity or detect an
activation state of the electronic device 300 and convert metered
or detected information into an electrical signal. For example, the
sensor 365 can include one or more buttons for a touch input, a
camera, a gesture sensor, an IMU sensors (such as a gyroscope or
gyro sensor and an accelerometer), an air pressure sensor, a
magnetic sensor or magnetometer, a grip sensor, a proximity sensor,
a color sensor, a bio-physical sensor, a temperature/humidity
sensor, an illumination sensor, an Ultraviolet (UV) sensor, an
Electromyography (EMG) sensor, an Electroencephalogram (EEG)
sensor, an Electrocardiogram (ECG) sensor, an infrared (IR) sensor,
an ultrasound sensor, an iris sensor, a fingerprint sensor, and the
like. The sensor 365 can further include control circuits for
controlling any of the sensors included therein. Any of these
sensor(s) 365 can be located within the electronic device 300.
[0060] Although FIGS. 2 and 3 illustrate examples of a server 200
and an electronic device 300, various changes can be made to FIGS.
2 and 3. For example, various components in FIGS. 2 and 3 could be
combined, further subdivided, rearranged, replicated, or omitted
and additional components could be added according to particular
needs. As a particular example, the processor 340 could be divided
into multiple processors, such as one or more central processing
units (CPUs) and one or more graphics processing units (GPUs).
Also, as with computing and communication networks, servers and
electronic devices can come in a wide variety of configurations,
and FIGS. 2 and 3 do not limit this disclosure to any particular
server or electronic device.
[0061] FIG. 4 illustrates an example activation process 400 for a
locked electronic device with an original SIM card according to
embodiments of this disclosure. In particular, FIG. 4 illustrates
an activation process 400 for activating an electronic device (such
as one having a lease and subsidy) using the original SIM card. In
Step 1, an original equipment manufacturer (OEM) 405 distributes an
electronic device, such as an electronic device 300 of FIG. 3, to a
first mobile operator (MO1) 410. A SIM card (SIM1) of the
electronic device 300 is registered to the first mobile operator
410. As a particular example, the first mobile operator 410 may
receive a number of electronic devices from the OEM 405 to sell or
lease to end users, and each device may have a SIM card registered
to the first mobile operator 410.
[0062] Based on this transaction, a new device status record 430 is
added to a blockchain 425 in Step 2 for each electronic device 300.
For example, when the first mobile operator 410 receives each
electronic device 300, the first mobile operator 410 may provide
information about the electronic device 300 to a smart contract
ledger that is stored on a blockchain platform 420 (which may be
implemented using one or more servers 104, 200). The information
can include an identifier associated with each electronic device
300, an identifier associated with the first mobile operator 410,
and a lock status of each electronic device 300. The smart contract
ledger is not limited to this type of information and may receive
various other information, such as information associated with each
electronic device 300, each device's SIM card, the first mobile
operator 410, or the first mobile operator's network. The
identifier associated with each electronic device 300 can be its
IMEI, serial number, or any other identifier associated with the
device.
[0063] The blockchain platform 420 receives new information added
to the smart contract ledger and creates device status records
430-435 corresponding to different electronic devices 300 in the
blockchain 425. For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the blockchain 425
contains different device status records 430-435, each of which is
associated with a different electronic device 300. In this example,
each device status record 430-435 includes an identifier of the
associated electronic device 300 and a lock status of that device.
Other information may also be included in each device status record
430-435, such as an identifier of the mobile operator to which the
associated device 300 is locked (if any). Here, the first mobile
operator 410 can add transaction information regarding the devices
300 from the OEM 405 to the smart contract ledger, thereby causing
the blockchain platform 420 to generate device status records
430-435 identify whether those devices 300 are locked or
unlocked.
[0064] In Step 3, a user 415 enters into a sales transaction or
otherwise obtains an electronic device 300 from the first mobile
operator 410. The transaction may include the user 415 leasing the
electronic device 300 or purchasing the electronic device 300 with
a subsidy from the first mobile operator 410. This means that the
user 415 is limited to using the electronic device 300 only on the
network associated with the first mobile operator 410, so the first
mobile operator 410 maintains a locked status of the electronic
device 300. The first mobile operator 410 can add this transaction
information to the smart contract ledger of the blockchain platform
420. A new device status record can be created in the blockchain
425 by the blockchain platform 420, and the new device status
record can identify the device 300, the first mobile operator 410,
and the locked device status. Alternatively, a new device status
record may not be generated since the electronic device 300 is
already associated with a device status record showing the locked
status (which was created earlier by the first mobile operator
410).
[0065] In Step 4, the user 415 takes steps to activate the
electronic device 300 based on the original SIM card (SIM1) that is
installed in the electronic device 300. In other words, the user is
attempting to activate the electronic device 300 with the first
mobile operator 410 as required by the user's transaction with the
first mobile operator 410. Here, the electronic device 300 shares
the SIM1 card information and the identifier of the electronic
device 300 with the blockchain platform 420. In Step 5, the
electronic device 300 transmits a request to the blockchain
platform 420 to verify that the electronic device 300 can be
activated with the first mobile operator 410 based on the
identifier of the electronic device 300 and the SIM1 card
information. Based on the device status record 430 associated with
the user's electronic device 300, the blockchain platform 420
determines that the user 415 is allowed to activate the electronic
device 300 because the carrier information on the SIM1 card for the
first mobile operator 410 matches the identification of the
operator to which the electronic device 300 is locked in the device
status record 430. The blockchain platform 420 transmits a response
indicating activation is permitted to the electronic device 300 in
Step 6.
[0066] In Step 7, the electronic device 300 transmits an activation
request to the first mobile operator 410. The activation request
includes information associated with the electronic device 300,
such as the identifier of the electronic device 300 and information
stored on the SIM1 card. In Step 8, the first mobile operator 410
transmits a request to the blockchain platform 420 to verify that
the electronic device 300 can be activated with the first mobile
operator 410 based on the identifier of the electronic device 300
and the SIM1 card information. Based on the device status record
430 associated with the user's electronic device 300, the
blockchain platform 420 determines that the user 415 is allowed to
activate the electronic device 300 because the carrier information
on the SIM1 card for the first mobile operator 410 matches the
identification of the operator to which the electronic device 300
is locked in the device status record 430. The blockchain platform
420 transmits a response indicating activation is permitted to the
first mobile operator 410 in Step 9.
[0067] In Step 10, the first mobile operator 410 transmits
information necessary to activate the electronic device 300. For
example, the first mobile operator 410 can transmit an activation
allowed message or other notification to the electronic device 300.
Activation proceeds through communications between the first mobile
operator 410 and the electronic device 300. In Step 11, the user
415 receives a notification that the electronic device 300 has been
activated.
[0068] Although FIG. 4 illustrates one example of an activation
process 400 for a locked electronic device with an original SIM
card, various changes may be made to FIG. 4. For example, various
steps in FIG. 4 could overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a
different order, or occur any number of times. Also, while the
example in FIG. 4 refers to the electronic device 300 as containing
an original SIM card (SIM1), it is understood that other techniques
can be used to store information on the electronic device 300 to
facilitate tracking of the electronic device 300 using identifier
information, carrier information, and the like.
[0069] FIG. 5 illustrates an example activation process 500 for a
locked electronic device with a replacement SIM card according to
embodiments of this disclosure. In particular, FIG. 5 illustrates
an activation process 500 for attempting to activate a locked
electronic device (such as one having a lease and subsidy) using a
replacement SIM card (SIM2). Steps 1-4 in FIG. 5 are similar to
Steps 1-4 in FIG. 4. However, the user here is attempting to
activate a locked electronic device 300 with a second mobile
operator (MO2) 510, likely in violation of the user's agreement or
other party's agreement with the first mobile operator 410.
[0070] In Step 5, the electronic device 300 transmits a request to
the blockchain platform 420 to verify that the electronic device
300 can be activated with the second mobile operator 510 based on
the identifier of the electronic device 300 and the SIM2 card
information. Based on the device status record 430 associated with
the user's electronic device 300, the blockchain platform 420
determines that the user 415 is not allowed to activate the
electronic device 300 because the carrier information on the SIM2
card for the second mobile operator 410 does not match the
identification of the operator to which the electronic device 300
is locked in the device status record 430. The blockchain platform
420 transmits a response indicating activation is not permitted to
the electronic device 300 in Step 6. At this point, the electronic
device 300 can send an alert or notification to the user 415 that
activation is not allowed.
[0071] In some embodiments, no further actions may be needed, and
activation of the device 300 on the network of the second mobile
operator 410 is blocked. In other embodiments, additional
safeguards may be implemented to prevent the user 415 from hacking
the device 300 and then attempting to activate with the second
mobile operator 410 anyway. For example, in Step 7, the electronic
device 300 transmits an activation request to the second mobile
operator 510. The activation request includes information
associated with the electronic device 300, such as the identifier
of the electronic device 300 and information stored on the SIM2
card. In Step 8, the second mobile operator 510 transmits a request
to the blockchain platform 420 to verify that the electronic device
300 can be activated with the second mobile operator 510 based on
the identifier of the electronic device 300 and the SIM2 card
information. Based on the device status record 430 associated with
the user's electronic device 300, the blockchain platform 420 again
determines that the user 415 is not allowed to activate the
electronic device 300 because the carrier information on the SIM2
card for the second mobile operator 510 does not match the
identification of the operator to which the electronic device 300
is locked in the device status record 430. The blockchain platform
420 transmits a response indicating activation is not permitted to
the second mobile operator 510 in Step 9.
[0072] In Step 10, the second mobile operator 510 transmits a
message to the electronic device 300 indicating that activation is
not allowed. In Step 11, the user 415 receives an alert or
notification that the electronic device 300 has not been activated.
A message can also be provided to the user stating that activation
is not allowed on the electronic device 300 because it is locked to
the first mobile operator 410.
[0073] Although FIG. 5 illustrates one example of an activation
process 500 for a locked electronic device with a replacement SIM
card, various changes may be made to FIG. 5. For example, various
steps in FIG. 5 could overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a
different order, or occur any number of times. Also, while the
example in FIG. 5 refers to the electronic device 300 as containing
a replacement SIM card (SIM2), it is understood that other
techniques can be used to store information on the electronic
device 300 to facilitate tracking of the electronic device 300
using identifier information, carrier information, and the
like.
[0074] FIG. 6 illustrates an example activation process 600 for an
unlocked electronic device according to embodiments of this
disclosure. In particular, FIG. 6 illustrates an activation process
600 for activating an electronic device that has been unlocked
(such as due to expiration of an original contract), where the
device 300 originally used a SIM1 card and is now using a SIM2
card. Steps 1-3 in FIG. 6 are similar to Steps 1-3 in FIGS. 4 and
5. However, as shown here, at some point, device status records
636-638 have been created for certain electronic devices 300
indicating that those devices 300 are now unlocked.
[0075] In Step 4, the user attempts to activate the unlocked
electronic device 300 with the second mobile operator 510. Unlike
FIG. 5, this is not in violation of the user's agreement or other
party's agreement with the first mobile operator 410. In Step 5,
the electronic device 300 transmits a request to the blockchain
platform 420 to verify that the electronic device 300 can be
activated with the second mobile operator 510 based on the
identifier of the electronic device 300 and the SIM2 card
information. Based on the device status record 638 associated with
the user's electronic device 300, the blockchain platform 420
determines that the user 415 is allowed to activate the electronic
device 300 with the second mobile operator 510 because the device
300 is unlocked. The blockchain platform 420 transmits a response
indicating activation is permitted to the electronic device 300 in
Step 6.
[0076] In Step 7, the electronic device 300 transmits an activation
request to the second mobile operator 510. The activation request
includes information associated with the electronic device 300,
such as the identifier of the electronic device 300 and information
stored on the SIM2 card. In Step 8, the second mobile operator 510
transmits a request to the blockchain platform 420 to verify that
the electronic device 300 can be activated with the second mobile
operator 510 based on the identifier of the electronic device 300
and the SIM2 card information. Based on the device status record
638 associated with the user's electronic device 300, the
blockchain platform 420 determines that the user 415 is allowed to
activate the electronic device 300 with the second mobile operator
510 because the device 300 is unlocked. The blockchain platform 420
transmits a response indicating activation is permitted to the
second mobile operator 510 in Step 9.
[0077] In Step 10, the second mobile operator 510 transmits
information necessary to activate the electronic device 300. For
example, the second mobile operator 510 can transmit an activation
allowed message or other notification to the electronic device 300.
Activation proceeds through communications between the second
mobile operator 510 and the electronic device 300. In Step 11, the
user 415 receives a notification that the electronic device 300 has
been activated.
[0078] Although FIG. 6 illustrates one example of an activation
process 600 for an unlocked electronic device, various changes may
be made to FIG. 6. For example, various steps in FIG. 6 could
overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a different order, or occur
any number of times. Also, while the example in FIG. 6 refers to
the electronic device 300 as containing a replacement SIM card
(SIM2), it is understood that other techniques can be used to store
information on the electronic device 300 to facilitate tracking of
the electronic device 300 using identifier information, carrier
information, and the like.
[0079] FIG. 7 illustrates an example method 700 for activating an
electronic device according to embodiments of this disclosure. In
particular, FIG. 7 illustrates an electronic device 300 attempting
to be activated via interactions with a blockchain platform 420 and
possibly a mobile operator 410, 510.
[0080] In step 710, an electronic device 300 receives a request to
activate the electronic device 300. In some embodiments, a user 415
may initiate the request through one or more interactions with the
electronic device 300. In step 715, the electronic device 300
transmits a query to a blockchain platform 420 to verify if
activation of the electronic device 300 is allowed. The query can
include information about the electronic device 300, such as an
identifier associated with the electronic device 300 (like IMEI
number or serial number) and information stored on a SIM card in
the electronic device 300. The SIM card information can link the
electronic device 300 to a specific mobile operator for network
authorization. The SIM card can include other or additional
information for use by the electronic device 300, such as user
identity, location, phone number, security keys, personal user
data, and the like. Based on the query, the blockchain platform 420
accesses the blockchain 425 and determines whether activation of
the electronic device 300 should be permitted.
[0081] In step 720, the electronic device 300 receives a response
from the blockchain platform 420 indicating whether activation of
the electronic device 300 is permitted. In step 725, the electronic
device 300 determines whether activation of the electronic device
300 is permitted based on the response from the blockchain platform
420. If not permitted, activation is blocked by the electronic
device 300 in step 730. This can include notifying the user 415
that the activation is not allowed. As noted above, at this point
the method 700 may end. Alternatively, the method 700 may proceed
further in order help prevent hacking of the electronic device 300
and subsequent activation.
[0082] If permitted, activation of the electronic device 300
proceeds in step 735, and the electronic device 300 transmits an
activation request to a mobile operator with an identifier
associated with the electronic device 300 in step 740. The mobile
operator 410, 510 transmits a query to the blockchain platform 420,
similar to the query transmitted by the electronic device 300 in
step 715, for the blockchain platform 420 to verify activation. The
blockchain platform 420 transmits a response indicating whether or
not the activation should proceed to the mobile operator 410,
510.
[0083] In step 745, the electronic device 300 receives a response
from the mobile operator 410, 510 indicating whether the activation
of the electronic device 300 is permitted based on the response
that the mobile operator 410, 510 received from the blockchain
platform 420. In step 750, the electronic device 300 determines
whether activation is permitted based on the response from the
mobile operator 410, 510. If permitted, the electronic device 300
completes the activation through communications with the mobile
operator 410, 510 in step 760. If not permitted, the electronic
device 300 blocks the activation in step 765. The electronic device
300 may also notify the user 415 that activation of the electronic
device 300 is not allowed.
[0084] Although FIG. 7 illustrates one example of a method 700 for
activating an electronic device, various changes can be made to
FIG. 7. For example, while shown as a series of steps, various
steps in FIG. 7 could overlap, occur in parallel, occur in a
different order, or occur any number of times.
[0085] FIG. 8 illustrates an example method 800 for verifying an
activation status of an electronic device according to embodiments
of this disclosure. In particular, FIG. 8 illustrates a blockchain
platform 420 verifying the activation status of an electronic
device 300 by accessing at least one device status record 430-435,
636-638 in a blockchain 425.
[0086] In step 810, the blockchain platform 420 generates device
status records 430-435, 636-638 for the blockchain 425. The device
status records 430-435, 636-638 can be based on transactions
between the OEM 405 and the mobile operators 410, 510 and/or
transactions between the mobile operators 410, 510 and various
users 415. The device status records 430-435, 636-638 contain
information associated with various electronic devices 300 and the
associated mobile operators 410,510, such as an identifier of each
electronic device 300, an identifier of the associated mobile
operator 410, 510, and a lock status. The device status records
430-435, 636-638 can also be based on other transactions and other
information associated with the electronic devices 300.
[0087] In step 815, the blockchain platform 420 receives a request
to activate a specific electronic device 300 from that electronic
device 300. As part of the request, the electronic device 300 may
transmit an identifier of the electronic device 300 and SIM card
information to the blockchain platform 420. In some embodiments,
the SIM card information includes an identifier of a mobile
operator 410, 510. In step 820, the blockchain platform 420
accesses the blockchain 425 to identify at least one device status
record associated with the electronic device 300. In step 825, the
blockchain platform 420 determines whether activation of the
electronic device 300 is permitted based on the identified device
status record(s). For example, if the device status record
associated with the electronic device 300 indicates that the status
is unlocked or that the status is locked but confirms that the
mobile operator 410, 510 is correct, the blockchain platform 420
can determine that activation is permitted. If the device status
record associated with the electronic device 300 indicates that the
status is locked and that the mobile operator 410, 510 is not
correct, the blockchain platform 420 can determine that activation
is not permitted. In step 830, the blockchain platform 420
transmits a response to the electronic device 300 indicating
whether or not activation is allowed. In some cases, the method 800
may end here if activation is not allowed. In other cases, the
method 800 may proceed to step 835.
[0088] In step 835, the blockchain platform 420 receives a second
request to activate the specific electronic device 300 from a
mobile operator 410, 510. As part of the request, the mobile
operator 410, 510 may transmit an identifier of the electronic
device 300 and SIM card information to the blockchain platform 420.
In some embodiments, the SIM card information includes an
identifier of the mobile operator 410, 510. In step 840, the
blockchain platform 420 accesses the blockchain 425 to identify at
least one device status record associated with the electronic
device 300. In step 845, the blockchain platform 420 determines
whether activation of the electronic device 300 is permitted based
on the identified device status record(s). This can occur in the
same or similar manner as step 825. In step 850, the blockchain
platform 420 transmits a response to the mobile operator 410, 510
indicating whether or not activation is allowed.
[0089] Although FIG. 8 illustrates one example of a method 800 for
verifying an activation status of an electronic device, various
changes can be made to FIG. 8. For example, while shown as a series
of steps, various steps in FIG. 8 could overlap, occur in parallel,
occur in a different order, or occur any number of times.
[0090] Although this disclosure has been described with reference
to various example embodiments, various changes and modifications
may be suggested to one skilled in the art. It is intended that
this disclosure encompass such changes and modifications as fall
within the scope of the appended claims.
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