IMMOBILISATION PROTECTION SYSTEM FOR ELECTRONIC COMPONENTS

摘要

An electronic security system that embeds electronic immobilisation protection devices (IPDs) in electronic products and components. IPDs have controlled access to a security service provider (SSP). At power on, and periodically thereafter, the IPD sends a cryptographically secure "challenge" to the SSP. If a part has not been reported stolen, then the SSP replies with a valid cryptographically secure "response", otherwise it replies with an invalid "response". If the IPD receives an invalid "response", or when a limited time has elapsed without a "response", it renders the part inoperative. A valid "response", inside the time limit, allows the part to function normally. A stolen and recovered product can be identified and traced to its rightful owner, who contacts the SSP to re-enable the product. IPDs allow specific parts to function normally for a limited period of time, so that existing hardware, software and network resources can be utilised to communicate to the SSP.