DE102007047718A1 - Arrangement for the security of mobile devices and methods for doing so - Google Patents

Abstract

A device for securing mobile devices is provided with means for supplying a list of device identifications, which list contains device identifications of registered devices to be blocked, with comparison means for comparing an identification of the mobile device with the list of function of the device in the event that a match of the identifier of the mobile device with the list of device identifiers is detected, and a method for securing mobile devices, wherein a list (21) of device identifiers is supplied to a mobile device (1), which list (21) identifies device identifications as registered device, wherein an identifier of the mobile device (1) with the list of device identifiers (21) is compared and wherein a function of the device (1) is disabled when the comparison of a match of the identifier of the mobile device (1) with the List (21) of device identifiers. The invention with the features of the independent claims has the advantage that even devices that are stolen along with complete accessories, can be locked. For a potential thief, the theft of a protected device according to the invention is unattractive, as he must always expect that the device is locked as soon as he reloads data or establishes a communication connection to the outside of the device. Furthermore, the required in the prior art ...

Description

State of the art

The The invention relates to an arrangement and a method according to Genus of the independent claims.

From the EP 0387 581 B1 a system for securing vehicles and built-in components is known in which via an input unit, a code can be entered, which code is transmitted to a central and there compared with a list of codes, and after finding a match of the transmitted with one of the codes stored in the center is transmitted from the center to the vehicle or vehicle-side component, which is then released in response to the release signal for operation.

There such components, such as car radio or navigation devices for retrofitting or portable Devices for example, a temporary Use in the vehicle, usually with complete Accessories and also the information about a release code sold in a common outer packaging, this attacks Procedure for theft of such a device together with Outer packaging is not.

Advantages of the invention

The Invention with the features of the independent claims has the advantage that even devices, which are stolen along with complete accessories, can be locked. For a potential Thief is the theft of a protected according to the invention Device is unattractive, as it always has to expect that the device is locked as soon as it loads data or a communication connection to the outside of the device manufactures. Furthermore, the required in the prior art Entry of an activation code dispensable.

To has an arrangement for securing mobile devices via Means for supplying a list of device identifiers, which list device IDs of as registered to block Contains devices, via comparison means for comparing an identifier of the mobile device with the List of device identifiers and means of Blocking a function of the device in case that a match of the identifier of the mobile device is detected with the list of device identifiers. The identifier of the mobile device that comes with the list of device IDs is compared, for example, a manufacturer of a device be clearly assigned and stored in the device serial number. The arrangement may in particular be part of the mobile device be executed in its operating program as a program routine which, for example, every time you start the device is processed.

Advantageous can change the list of device IDs to blocking devices via read in an exchangeable data carrier or via a communication interface are loaded.

to Adding the List of Device IDs to Block Devices are particularly suitable regularly Data updates to be performed. Such data updates are for example, in navigation systems, in particular vehicle navigation systems for use in motor vehicles, but also other navigation systems useful, since traffic routes through new buildings, conversions and the like, for example, replacement of crosses by roundabouts, new plant from bypasses, etc. changed over time become. A correct route calculation and route guidance requires regularly updated map data. In the knowledge this circumstance is for the user of such Device close, regular updates of it Map database, including the list of Updated device identifiers for locking devices becomes.

drawings

embodiments The invention are illustrated in the figure and will be described below explained in more detail. Identical reference symbols same or equivalent elements.

The FIG. 1 shows a block diagram of the part essential to the invention the inventive arrangement for implementation the method according to the invention.

Description of the embodiments

The figure shows a mobile electronic device 1 , which is protected by the inventive arrangement and the inventive method. The device 1 For example, it may be a car radio, car navigation or vehicle multimedia device installed in a preferably standardized mounting slot in a center console of a vehicle. The device 1 For example, alternatively, a portable device such as a portable navigation device may also be referred to as PNA (Personal Navigation Assistant), or may be a mobile phone or the like. Other applications are within the scope of the invention.

this device 1 is protected by an arrangement and method described below.

It is assumed that a device 1 an identifier is uniquely assigned. This uniquely assigned identifier can be, for example, a serial number of the device assigned by the device manufacturer or the like. This serial number, or general identifier, is preferably in a memory 12 of the device 1 deposited. Preferably, the identifier is tamper-proof, secured against exchange and preferably stored in coded and not readily readable form. For example, the serial number can be stored in a read-only memory 12 a microprocessor 11 of the device 11 be stored, the microprocessor 11 firmly with a printed circuit board of the device 1 soldered and thus only with considerable effort removed and interchangeable.

The device 1 further comprises means for supplying a list of device identifiers, which list includes device identifiers of devices to be disabled for operation. The means for supplying a list of device identifications may be provided by a reading device 14 for removable storage media, such as a smart card reader 14 for reading in these insertable smart cards 16 , about after ISO 7816 , SD, MMC, Compact Flash or a comparable standard. The list is then, preferably next to other user data, on the smart card 16 stored and is by the card reader 14 controlled by the processor 11 , read from the chip card. The reading device may alternatively also be, for example, a drive for reading optical or magnetic storage media 17 such as Compact Disc (CD), Digital Versatile Disc (DVD), Blue Ray Disc or the like, the list being stored on the corresponding storage medium, preferably alongside other payload data, and being read from the storage medium. Preferably, the processor controls 11 reading the list of device identifiers from the storage medium 16 . 17 always when commissioning the device 1 via its switch 131 on a control unit 13 , Alternatively, the reading of the list of device identifiers takes place, for example, in each case during a first access to the data carrier 16 . 17 for the purpose of reading user data into a working memory 18 of the device. For example, in known navigation systems, be it for permanent installation in vehicles, be it for mobile or temporary use in the vehicle, when starting the navigation function usually map data from the removable disk into the main memory 18 loaded. Since map data becomes obsolete over time, it makes sense to obtain updated map data in such navigation devices. Along with the map data can also be the list 21 be updated by device IDs.

Alternatively or additionally, the means for supplying a list of device identifiers can also be a communication interface 15 include, for example, a mobile radio interface according to a known GSM, GPRS or UMTS standard or the like. In this case, the device enters 1 via the communication interface 15 with a remote station 2 via its second communication interface 22 in connection. In this course, one at the remote site 2 reserved list 21 of device identifiers via the communication interfaces 22 and 15 in the main memory 18 of the device 1 getting charged. In the case of a mobile radio interface, the transmission can be initiated by the radio network operator, for example, in the course of logging into the mobile radio network. In the case of, for example, a WLAN, Bluetooth or similar communication interface 15 For example, the list of device identifiers can be used to establish a connection between the communication interface 15 and Wi-Fi hotspot 22 from its operator 2 to the device 1 be transmitted.

After transmission of the list 21 from device identifiers to the device 1 the processor compares 11 those in the store 12 stored identifier of the device 1 with the obtained list of device identifiers. Represents the processor 11 If a match is found, it will block further commissioning or further use of the device 1 , Alternatively, it can also be provided that in the device 1 only certain functions are blocked, for example all functions except for the emergency call function.

The database with the list 21 Device IDs may be, for example, from the device manufacturer 2 maintained and constantly updated. To maintain and update the list, stolen devices or the serial numbers of these devices are reported to the manufacturer. Preferably, it is provided that the detector must provide proof of ownership of the stolen reported device. This can be done by adding a police theft message or by a special number, such as a PIN from the stolen device's records. This can be protected by a scratch pad similar to the secret numbers for mobile phone or bank cards. Thus, the number remains secret in case of resale.

For example, in the event of theft of the device with outer packaging and accessories, for example, in the trade or during transport from the manufacturer to the dealer, the serial number or general identifier of the device may be stored in the manufacturer's shipping documents or a warehouse management system of the dealer, thus standing for a message to the administrator the blacklist. In the event that the device with allerli or at least with the documents containing the device identifier or serial numbers is stolen from the end user, the identifier or serial number for a theft message, for example, on the invoice or the delivery note be noted.

Of the Manufacturer or administrator of the list of device identifiers enters the serial number in a database, which then to mobile network operators, operators of Wi-Fi hotspots, etc. distributed and deposited there. Expected to be in the future also increased coupling of mobile devices, for example Navigation devices, with Internet services. For example is here to download POIs (Points of Interest, Places or Facilities of particular interest, such as restaurants, Petrol stations, stations and other Infratstruktur- and other facilities) from Internet databases or loading from addresses of, for example, a particular restaurant from the Internet for destination entry on the navigation system or the like thought. In this case, the list can also be from device IDs at all, such information providing Internet servers or general data providers for automatic download be deposited with the desired information.

Furthermore, the list may also be provided by the manufacturer on data carriers with updated data, such as navigation system map data or program update program data, such that this updated list of device identifiers will read the data media 16 . 17 over the reading device 14 in the device 1 arrives.

The invention is therefore particularly suitable for devices which are supplied with information from external sources at short and / or regular intervals, ie in particular devices which have a communication interface and for the purpose of communication with a communication network of an operator, for example mobile radio, Internet via WLAN Hatspot, Bluetooth connect and register there. In the course of establishing a connection or registering it is essential to transfer the list of device identifications to the device 1 be provided. Alternatively, the invention is particularly suitable for devices to which software or data updates are routinely supplied, such as navigation systems to which updated map data is supplied and the like.

Above, it was regularly assumed that the arrangement according to the invention is part of the device 1 and especially as software in the device 1 is implemented. However, this is not mandatory. The arrangement may also be one with respect to the device 1 external device to which the device is connected.

In the event that a stolen device 1 gets back into the hands of the owner, is further provided that the identifier of this device 1 from the list 21 is deleted from device identifiers. An authentication can be done as in the case of blocking the number. For reporting as well as for the removal from the database or the list of device identifiers, a fee may be charged.

At the Remove from the list of stolen devices can the Owners will be notified if certain dates are for Device are locked. These data are either to be avoided or the device must be provided with a new serial number become. For online data provided deleted The problem. Even after unlocking the device will there continue to be data carriers (CD / DVD, ..) in circulation, which would lock the device again in use. In this case, the owner of the device given a list of data carriers that he should avoid Has.

Instead of Disabling the device immediately upon detection can alternatively after a random period of time to a necessary Device service pointed and then the device be locked. With a little luck, the thief or contacted the one who has the device at the time, the service. It then exists the possibility it the legitimate To return the owner or the theft enlighten.

Of the Mechanism can work in principle with all devices regular data from outside the device to be applied. So z. B. MP3 player, for the Music files downloaded from the Internet and played on the player are, so-called TMC boxes, so radio receiver to Receive digitally coded traffic reports that provide new information about Rundunk received. Furthermore, for example, game consoles with a Internet connection, such as multiuser games, with access to Internet portals where players can enjoy their 'high score' can deposit or MP3 player z. B. when downloading Firmware or user interfaces ('skinning') as well as during download from current media from the internet, podcasts' on the mp3 or Video player.

Furthermore, a publicly accessible database can be set up with the list of device identifications, for example supplemented by the respectively affected device types or device descriptions, so that used device buyers can recognize a possible blockage. For this, the potential buyer can set the serial number of the device on one Enter the manufacturer's website or another administrator of the list of device IDs and see if the device has been reported stolen. Similar queries already exist today for checking the validity of manufacturer's warranties (eg for hard disks or notebook computers of certain manufacturers).

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list The documents listed by the applicant have been automated generated and is solely for better information recorded by the reader. The list is not part of the German Patent or utility model application. The DPMA takes over no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• EP 0387581 B1 [0002]

Cited non-patent literature

• - ISO 7816 [0013]

Claims (9)

Arrangement for securing mobile devices ( 1 ) with means ( 14 . 15 . 16 . 17 ) for supplying a list ( 21 ) of device IDs, which list ( 21 ) Contains device identifications of devices registered as to be blocked, with comparison means ( 11 ) for comparing an identifier of the mobile device ( 1 ) with the list ( 21 ) of device identifiers and with means ( 11 ) to block a function of the device ( 1 ) in the event that a match of the identifier of the mobile device ( 1 ) with the list ( 21 ) of device IDs is detected. Arrangement according to claim 1 with means ( 14 ) for reading a removable data medium ( 16 . 17 ), where the list of device IDs on the removable disk ( 16 . 17 ) is stored. Arrangement according to claim 1 with a communication interface ( 15 ) to load the list ( 21 ) of device identifiers from a central ( 2 ), in which the list of device identifications exists. A method for securing mobile devices, wherein a mobile device ( 1 ) a list ( 21 ) is supplied by device identifiers which list ( 21 ) Contains device identifications of devices registered as to be blocked, an identification of the mobile device ( 1 ) with the list of device identifiers ( 21 ) and where a function of the device ( 1 ) is disabled if the comparison is a match of the identifier of the mobile device ( 1 ) with the list ( 21 ) of device identifiers. Method according to claim 4, wherein the list ( 21 ) of device IDs from a removable volume ( 16 . 17 ) into a main memory ( 18 ), which is accessed for the purpose of comparison. Method according to claim 5, wherein the list ( 21 ) of device identifiers during a first access to the data carrier ( 16 . 17 ) or when reading from on the data medium ( 16 . 17 ) stored user data in the main memory ( 18 ) is read. Method according to claim 4, wherein the list ( 21 ) of device identifiers via a communication interface ( 15 ). Method according to claim 7, wherein the list ( 21 ) of device identifications when establishing a communication connection with an operator of a communication network ( 2 ) or when registering in a communication network ( 2 ) or when loading user data from a data provider, in particular via an Internet connection is obtained. Arrangement according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the mobile device ( 1 ) is a navigation device, in particular a navigation device for fixed installation or for temporary operation in a motor vehicle, or a mobile phone or a small computer with mobile phone module or short-range radio module, such as WLAN, Bluetooth or the like.