Method and apparatus to create trust domains based on proximity
US8522019B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 21, 2008 |
| Grant date | Aug 27, 2013 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jun 26, 2032 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04W88/18
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Devices and methods use close range communication links, e.g., near field communication (NFC) links, to authenticate communication devices to one another to create or join a new device to a trust domain. Once two devices establish a close range communication peer-to-peer link the devices exchange credential information that provide an infrastructure for the trust domain. Medium or long range wireless or wired network communication links can then be used for secure and trusted communications. Proximity limits of the close range communication P2P link enables mutual trust to be presumed among devices, providing added security to the process of extending a trust domain and reducing the need for security and authentication signaling. Embodiments provide a variety of methods for extending credential infrastructure among devices. Embodiments further enable simple to use virtual cables that can provide secure point-to-point communications that are configured merely by touching two communication devices together.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.