16-07-2014, 04:22 PM
Design and Implementation of Improved Authentication System for Android
Smartphone Users
Improved Authentication System.PDF (Size: 234.55 KB / Downloads: 27)
Abstract
The devices most often used for IT services are
changing from PCs and laptops to smartphones and tablets.
These devices need to be small for increased portability. These
technologies are convenient, but as the devices start to contain
increasing amounts of important personal information, better
security is required. Security systems are rapidly being
developed, as well as solutions such as remote control systems.
However, even with these solutions, major problems could still
result after a mobile device is lost. In this thesis, we present our
upgraded Lock Screen system, which is able to support
authentication for the user’s convenience and provide a good
security system for smartphones. We also suggest an upgraded
authentication system for Android smartphones
INTRODUCTION
The number of smartphone users is rapidly increasing
worldwide, especially the number of Android OS users.
Because of this phenomenon, Home Launcher was
developed to support user convenience. Users can download
Home Launchers from the Android Market; the most
commonly used ones are ADW Launcher, Launcher Pro, and
GO Launcher. These systems provide convenience but not
good security. The Home Launchers currently on the market
do not use authentication methods as in Android OS and as
developed by smartphone companies. Accordingly, Home
Launchers need to have authentication methods to provide
better security and convenience [1, 2, 3]. In this thesis, we
will analyze the problems with the current Home Launchers’
Lock Screens and suggest an upgraded authentication system
for Android smartphones.
Authentication schemes for the Android smartphone
Slide Lock: This is a Lock Screen provided by
Android and IOS and it is a “touch–horizontal slide”
form of screen. It does not serve as a security system
and necessitates extra security applications [6].ٻ
Glass Lock: This is a Lock Screen based on the
Android OS and is provided on Samsung devices. It
works the same as a Slide Lock can be dragged in all
directions. It is like putting a glass on the screen.ٻ
Keypad Lock: This scheme requires a four-digit
password, so it provides key space from 0 to 9999.
Repetitive input touching of the smartphone is
required, presenting an inconvenience factor [6].
Pattern Lock: This is well matched with the user
interface. There are nine dots on the screen, each of
which can be touched and dragged one dot at a time
(redundancy input is not available) to make a
password. Accordingly, it provides approximately
one million (= 9P4 + 9P5 + 9P6 + 9P7 + 9P8 + 9!) of
key space. It reduces repetitive touching and
provides for easy dragging. However, if users enter
an easy pattern for convenience, there is weak
security power; if users enter a more complicated
pattern, the scheme will not be comfortable to use
[6].
Finger Scan: Atrix smartphone, made by Motorola,
supplies a finger scanning system, which provides
both good convenience and good security without
touch-dragging. Overlapping processes on the screen
and low speed are the main problem
How the improved authentication system for Android smartphones work
Step 1. The Lock Screen consists of activities, so it is
included in the Home Launcher application package.
The Screen receives the “On/Off Broadcast
Receiver” so it is processed with Intent from
Screen-On, activating the Lock Screen Activity.
Step 2. The Lock Screen Activity consists of Password
settings and, to unlock the screen, a password must
first be entered. After setting the password, two
options are available: a user can either enter the
password or shake the mobile phone. The User
mode can be entered by entering the password; the
Guest mode can be entered by using the
acceleration sensor (shaking)
CONCLUSION
In this thesis, we analyzed the problems in current Home
Launchers’ Lock Screens and suggested improving the
authentication systems for Android smartphones. By
dividing the mode of entry into the authentication system, we
improved the user’s convenience and security power.
Android is being installed in tablets and many other IT
devices that require good security systems. The use of our
improved authentication system ensures protection of
personal information