Systems and methods for authenticating users accessing unsecured wifi access points
US8495714B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 1, 2012 |
| Grant date | Jul 23, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Feb 1, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04W88/08
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Systems and methods system for a user accessing an unsecure Wifi access point are provided. In an embodiment, the present invention requests that the customer perform authentication of the access point to which he is connected. On initial connection to the access point, the customer provides his username/password and chooses a memorable information element (e.g., image or phrase). A site specific cookie is delivered to the customer device after a successful authentication. On subsequent connections, the site specific cookie is validated and the MAC address of the customer device is used to retrieve the memorable information element. If the customer recognizes his memorable image, he confirms that he is on a bona fide access point. In a further embodiment, if the customer connects at a location and/or time of day which breaks a previously observed pattern, MAC authentication is not accepted and a full authentication (e.g., user/password) is required.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.