CONFIGURABLE MULTI-DOT BASED AUTHENTICATION SYSTEM AND METHOD THEREOF

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS AND PRIORITY

[001] The present application claims priority from Indian patent application no.

201721013412 filed on 14 April 2017.

TECHNICAL FIELD

[002] The present subject matter described herein, in general, relates to the field of an authentication mechanism that increases security and more particularly relates to runtime configurable multi-dot based mechanism for authentication while maintaining optimum comfort.

BACKGROUND

[003] When it comes to security, most of the devices are a target waiting to be attacked.

Therefore, security of the device is the main concern of the user. Combine the lack of security with the fact that mobile devices are being targeted by cyber criminals and you have a bad situation. Mobile devices face an array of threats that take advantage of numerous vulnerabilities commonly found in such devices. These vulnerabilities may not only be the result of inadequate technical controls, but also they can result from the poor security practices of consumers. Many devices have the technical capability to support passwords, Personal Identification Numbers (PIN), or pattern screen locks for authentication. Some mobile devices also include a biometric reader to scan a fingerprint for authentication. Additionally, if user uses a password or PIN they often choose passwords or PINs that can be easily determined or bypassed, such as 1234 or 0000 and if user uses a pattern lock, they often choose pattern that can be easily drawn or determined. Therefore, even if the user uses passwords or PINs or pattern lock to lock the device, there is increased risk that information stored in the device could be accessed by unauthorized users who could view sensitive information and misuse mobile devices. [004] Researchers evaluated the attack using 120 unique patterns collected from independent users. They were able to crack more than 95 per cent of patterns within five attempts. Experts believe that complex shapes were easier to crack because they help the fingertip algorithm to narrow down the possible options. While drawing the pattern, the finger traces of the user remains on the screen of the device which helps the unauthorised person to hack the device.

[005] In pattern drawing mechanism used for authentication, there are few more restrictions i.e. each dot of the matrix can be included only once in the sequence of pattern and the size of matrix on which the pattern is to be drawn, always remains constant. Due to these restrictions, security level decreases as the pattern may be easily and fraudulently hacked by any other person only by seeing or noticing the user while he draws the pattern.

[006] The visually disable user faces a lot of problem while drawing the pattern of the user device as every dot in the matrix is labelled as "dot". So, it becomes quite difficult for the visually disable user to identify and distinguish each dot.

[007] In the view of all the above scenarios, one can conclude that there is a long-standing need to have such provision or facility that helps the user to keep the device highly secured and any other person should not be able to hack the pattern of the user. Also, there should be a provision or facility that helps the visually disable person to easily draw the pattern on his device.

SUMMARY

[008] This summary is provided to introduce concepts related to a configurable multi-dot based authentication system and method and the concepts are further described in the detail description. This summary is not intended to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter nor it is intended to use in determining or limiting the scope of claimed subject matter.

[009] In one implementation, the present subject matter describes a configurable multi-dot based authentication system. The system may comprise a user device, that may further comprise one or more sensor, a processor, a memory coupled with the processor. The system may further comprise setting, a size of a matrix of dots, wherein the size of matrix is dynamically modifiable. The system may further comprise displaying, the matrix of the set size on a display screen of the user device. Further the system may comprise enabling, the user to define a pattern by touching one or more dots in the matrix, wherein every single dot is enabled to get repeated in the pattern one or more times. Further, the system may comprise recognising, the defined pattern as an unlocking pattern for an authentication purpose by confirming the pattern by enabling user to draw the pattern again. The system may further comprise enabling, the user to draw the pattern every time before authentication process using one or more dots of the matrix in order to unlock the user device. The system may further comprise comparing, the drawn pattern with the user-defined unlocking pattern and unlocking, the user device if the drawn pattern matches the user-defined unlocking pattern.

[0010] In another implementation, the present subject matter describes a configurable multi- dot based authentication method. The method may comprise setting, via a processor, a size of a matrix of dots, wherein the size of matrix is dynamically modifiable. The method may comprise displaying, via the processor, the matrix of the set size on a display screen of the user device. The method may comprise enabling, via the processor, the user to define a pattern by touching one or more dots in the matrix, wherein every single dot is enabled to get repeated in the pattern one or more times. The method may further comprise recognising, via the processor, the defined pattern as an unlocking pattern for an authentication purpose by confirming the pattern by enabling user to draw the pattern again. The method may comprise enabling, via the processor, the user to draw the pattern every time before authentication process using one or more dots of the matrix in order to unlock the user device. The method may comprise comparing, via the processor, the drawn pattern with the user-defined unlocking pattern and further unlocking, via the processor, the user device if the drawn pattern matches the user-defined unlocking pattern.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0011] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying Figures. In the Figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the Figure in which the reference number first appears. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings to refer like features and components.

[0012] Figure 1 illustrates a configurable multi-dot based authentication system 101 of user device 102 and its components, in accordance with an embodiment of a present subject matter.

[0013] Figure 2 illustrates a configurable multi-dot based authentication method 200 performed by the system 101, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0014] Figure 3 illustrates a method of including the dots in a pattern if the line of pattern passes through the dot and/or radial orientation of the dot using space ignoring method, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0015] Figure 4 illustrates a method of ignoring the dots if the line of pattern passes through the middle part using space ignoring method, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0016] Figure 5 illustrates a method of including the dots if the line of pattern passes through a single dot more than one time using repeat allowing method as well as space ignoring method, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0017] Figure 6 illustrates 3*3 matrix and the pattern drawn by the user on the matrix, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0018] Figure 7 illustrates 6*6 matrix in which the same pattern may be drawn, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0019] Figure 8 illustrates a method 800 of setting the size of matrix by showing required number of fingers in front of the image/gesture capturing means of the user device 102, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter. [0020] Figure 9 illustrates a method 900 of setting size of the matrix when one or more contact points are sensed by a sensor 103 simultaneously, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0021] Figure 10 illustrates a method 1000 of setting size of the matrix using slide control mechanism, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0022] Figure 11 illustrates a method 1100 of setting size of the matrix by pressing a button on the user device 102, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0023] Figure 12 illustrates a method 1200 of setting size of the matrix by pressing a recycle button on a display screen of the user device 102, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0024] Figure 13 illustrates a method 1300 of setting size of the matrix by making a pinch on the display screen of the user device 102, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[0025] Figure 14 illustrates a method 1400 of drawing the pattern when one or more contacts points are sensed by the sensor 103 simultaneously or separately and pattern is drawn simultaneously or separately on the display screen of the user device 102, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0026] Reference throughout the specification to "various embodiments," "some embodiments," "one embodiment," or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in various embodiments," "in some embodiments," "in one embodiment," or "in an embodiment" in places throughout the specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments. [0027] In the present subject matter, a configurable multi-dot based authentication system and method is described. The system 101 may comprise, a user device 102 that may comprise one or more sensor 103, a processor 104 and a memory 106. A configurable multi-dot based authentication system may have a multi dot matrix. A size of the matrix may be set based on the user inputs wherein the size of matrix is dynamically modifiable. In one example the matrix may have size of 2*2 or 3*3 or any other combination. After setting the size of the matrix, the matrix may be displayed on a display screen of the user device 102. The user may draw a pattern by touching one or more dots in the matrix, wherein every single dot is enabled to get repeated in the pattern one or more times. The system may recognise the drawn pattern as an unlocking pattern by confirming and storing the pattern. The user may draw the pattern every time in order to unlock the user device 102, using one or more dots of the matrix in order to unlock the user device 102.

[0028] The system may compare the drawn pattern with the user-defined unlocking pattern and may unlock the user device 102, if the drawn pattern matches the user-defined unlocking pattern.

[0029] While aspects of described system and method for authentication using configurable multi-dot system 101 may be implemented in any number of different computing systems, environments, and/or configurations, the embodiments are described in the context of the following exemplary system.

[0030] Referring to figure 1, a configurable multi-dot based authentication system 101 and its components is illustrated, in accordance with an embodiment of a present subject matter. The system 101 may set the size of the matrix which may be displayed on the display screen of the user device 102. The user may draw a pattern by touching one or more dots in the matrix. The system 101 may recognise and store the drawn pattern as an unlocking pattern. The user may draw the pattern every time before in order to unlock the user device 102. The system may compare the drawn pattern with the user- defined unlocking pattern and may unlock the user device 102 if the drawn pattern matches the user-defined unlocking pattern. [0031] In one embodiment, the system 101 may be implemented in the user device 102. It may be understood that the system 101 may be accessed by multiple user through one or more user devices 102-1,102-2,102-3... 102-n, collectively referred to as user device 102 hereinafter, or applications residing on the user device 102.

[0032] In one embodiment, as illustrated in figure 1, the system 101 may accept information provided by multiple users using the user device 102, to register the respective user with the system 101. The user may be any person, machine, software, automated computer program, a robot or a combination thereof.

[0033] In one embodiment, it may be understood that the system 101 may also be implemented in a variety of user devices 102, such as but are not limited to, a portable computer, a personal digital assistant, a handheld device, a mobile, a laptop computer, a desktop computer, a notebook, a workstation, a mainframe computer, and the like.

[0034] In one embodiment, components of the computer implemented system 101, comprises one or more sensor 103, at least one processor 104, an input/output (I/O) interface 105, and a memory 106, modules 107 and a data 114. In one embodiment, the at least one processor 104 may be configured to fetch and execute computer-readable instructions stored in the memory 106.

[0035] In one embodiment, one or more sensor 103 of the user devices 102 is touch sensor, image capturing sensor, sound sensor, or a combination thereof.

[0036] In one embodiment, the I/O interface 105 implemented as a mobile application or a web based application may include a variety of software and hardware interfaces, for example, a web interface, a graphical user interface, and the like. The I/O interface 105 may allow the system 101 to interact with the user device 102. Further, the I/O interface 105 may enable the user device 102 to communicate with other computing devices, such as external processing server, web servers and external data servers (not shown). The I/O interface 105 can facilitate multiple communications within a wide variety of networks and protocol types, including wired networks, for example, LAN, cable, etc., and wireless networks, such as WLAN, cellular, or satellite. The I/O interface 105 may include one or more ports for connecting to another server. [0037] In one embodiment, the I/O interface 105 is an interaction platform that feeds the parameter into a parameter module 108 which resides in the memory 106. The I/O interface 105 may allow commands for a command line interface or a Graphical User Interface (GUI) which may enable a user to create, modify and delete either of data, metadata, program, logic, algorithm, parameters associated with encryption method, encryption program and encryption language.

[0038] In one embodiment, the memory 106 may include any computer-readable medium known in the art including, for example, volatile memory, such as static random access memory (SRAM) and dynamic random access memory (DRAM), and/or non-volatile memory, such as read only memory (ROM), erasable programmable ROM, flash memories, hard disks, optical disks, and memory cards. The memory 106 may include a module 107 and a data 114.

[0039] In one embodiment, the module 107 may include routines, programs, objects, components, data structure, etc., which performs particular tasks, functions or implement abstract data types. The module 107 may further comprise a parameter module 108, a pattern sensing module 109 and a processing module 110. The processing module 110 may further comprise a pattern recognition module 111 and a comparison module 112 and other modules 113. The other modules 113 may include programs or coded instructions that supplement applications and functions of the media system 101.

[0040] The data 114, amongst other things, serves as a repository for storing data processed, received, and generated by one or more of the modules 107. The data 1134 may also include a centralised repository (115) and other data 116. The other data 116 may include data generated as a result of the execution of one or more modules in the other module 113.

[0041] PARAMETER MODULE

[0042] In one embodiment, the parameter module 108 may receive input from the user. The user may set the size of matrix of dots by providing inputs. The user may define a pattern using the dots of the matrix. The size of matrix of dots, set by the user may be dynamically modifiable i.e. the user may change or modify the size of the matrix at any time before starting to draw the pattern for authentication and subsequently the matrix may be regenerated. The matrix of the dot may be displayed on the display screen of the user device 102.

[0043] In one embodiment, the processor 104 may be configured to set the size of a matrix of dots, wherein the size of the matrix may be set as default size of the matrix. The size of matrix is dynamically modifiable.

[0044] In one embodiment, the size of matrix is set by an input means. The input means may further comprise an image capturing means; or a voice code or command; or a gesture recognition means or saved data sets which are in encrypted or unencrypted format; or means recognisable by human senses. The means recognisable by human senses may further comprise a written or printed paper; or oral communication; or data conveyed by touch senses; or data conveyed by tactile senses; manual using a user interface which have plurality of buttons, wherein the user may be capable to set the size of matrix by pressing the corresponding button; or a user interface which have a slide control mechanism, wherein the user may be capable to set the required size of matrix by sliding the cursor on the slide control bar; or a user interface which have recycle button, wherein the user may be capable to set the required size of matrix by pressing the recycle button; or making a pinch on the display screen, wherein the user the user may be capable to set the required size of matrix by making use of pinch-in gesture or pinch- out gesture; or number of taps on the display screen; or number of multi touch on the display screen; or physical or virtual keyboard clicks; or voice commands or the like.

[0045] In one embodiment, in order to set the size of matrix by conveying data by touch senses on a display screen, the size of the matrix generated is same as the number of contact points sensed by the sensor 103 of the display screen simultaneously.

[0046] In one embodiment, size of the set matrix for authentication is either constant or it is dynamically defined by the user based on the user's input. The maximum size of the matrix depends on various factors such as at least one of the size of a display screen on the user device 102, pixels of the display screen of the user device 102, density of the display screen of the user device 102 or the like.

[0047] In one embodiment, the matrix of the dot may be displayed on the display screen of the user device 102 in order to facilitate the user to draw the desired pattern on the matrix.

[0048] PATTERN SENSING MODULE

[0049] In one embodiment, the pattern sensing module 109 may sense the pattern defined by the user using the matrix of dots. The user may define the pattern by touching one or more dots in the matrix, wherein every single dot may be enabled to get repeated in the pattern one or more times. Repetition of dots in a pattern for unlocking the user device 102 may enable to generate infinite combinations of patterns with each dot. Each dot of the matrix may be repeated infinite number of times in a pattern.

[0050] In one embodiment, the processor 104 may be configured to enable the user to draw the pattern when one or more contact points are sensed by the sensor 103 of the user device 102 simultaneously or separately and the pattern may be drawn simultaneously or separately on the display screen of the user device, wherein the pattern may be drawn in continuation or in parts.

[0051] In one embodiment, the facility of using single dot one or more times in the pattern may be provided by using either by space ignoring method or by repeat allowing method or a combination thereof.

[0052] In one embodiment, for the facility of using single dot one or more times in the pattern may be provided by using space ignoring method, the peripheral area between two adjacent dot may be divided into three imaginary parts (may or may not be equal parts) wherein, extreme two parts may be associated with adjacent dots and the areas to these extreme parts may be in a radial orientation and middle part may respond to an area not covered by the radial orientations of the adjacent dots and further the middle part may not be associated with either of the dot and may provide an area to ignore the 2 dots or to skip the 2 dots in the sequence of pattern dots. [0053] In one embodiment, wherein, while drawing the pattern, if the line of pattern passes through any of the two extreme parts then the processor 104 may be configured to consider the dot corresponding to the selected extreme part and if the line of pattern passes through the middle part then the processor 104 may be configured to ignore both the dots which will not be included in the pattern.

[0054] In one embodiment, the facility of using single dot one or more times in the pattern may be provided by using repeat allowing method. According to repeat allowing method, if the line of pattern passes through any of the dot and/or a radial area around the dot a more than one time, then the processor 104 may be configured to include the dot in the pattern.

[0055] PROCESSING MODULE

[0056] In one embodiment, the processing module 110 may process the pattern drawn by the user using one or more dots of the set size of matrix. The processor 104 may be configured to label each dot using unique combination of row number of the dot and corresponding column number of that dot in order to allot unique identity to each dot. Further, the processor 104 may be configured to read out the label of the dot as the user touches the dot.

[0057] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to figure 3, size of matrix is 2*2 and the processor 104 may be configured to label the dots as dot 1,1; dot 1,2; dot 2,1 and dot 2,2. Further, the system 101 may read out the label of each dots as the user touches the dot. The said feature may facilitate the visually disable user to easily identify and differentiate each dot by hearing the label of the dots. This further enables the visually disable user to draw the pattern on his user device 102 without seeing at the user device

102.

[0058] PATTERN RECOGNITION MODULE

[0059] In one embodiment, the pattern recognition module 111 may recognise the pattern defined by the user as an unlocking pattern for unlocking the user device 102 by confirming and storing the pattern and further enabling user to draw the pattern again for unlocking the user device 102.

[0060] In one embodiment, the pattern sensing module 109 may enable the user to draw the pattern every time before authentication process using one or more dots of the matrix of different size or on the matrix of same size in order to unlock the user device 102. The same pattern using same number of dot(s) having same unique identity may be drawn on the matrix of different size or on the matrix of same size.

[0061] In one embodiment, the parameter module 108 may enable the user to modify the size of the matrix at any time before drawing pattern for authentication and subsequently the matrix may be regenerated. The user may draw the same pattern using same dots (having same unique identity) on matrix of different size.

[0062] In one embodiment, the user may keep the size of the matrix constant every time i.e. the user may set the size of the matrix once and may use the same matrix every time for drawing the pattern or the user may dynamically define or modify the size of matrix by providing inputs.

[0063] In one embodiment, the processor 104 may be configured to vary, the size of the set matrix for authentication, randomly based on the geo location or it may vary randomly based on the user's input.

[0064] In one embodiment, the random variation in the size of the matrix that is displayed on the display screen of the user device 102 before authentication process may be executed when any unrecorded or unfamiliar geo location is detected, the processor 104 may be configured to display the matrix of random size i.e. if the location detected by the user device 102 is not familiar, then the display screen of the user device 102 may display the matrix of different sizes every time before the authentication processes.

[0065] In one embodiment, for the purpose of varying the size of the matrix randomly, that is displayed on the display screen of the user device 102 before authentication process, the processor 104 may be configured to display the size of the matrix which is equal to or greater than the minimum size of the matrix that is required to draw the pattern, wherein the user may be capable to change the size of the matrix to the required size.

[0066] In an exemplary embodiment, if the pattern is drawn on 6*6 matrix, but the number of dots used for drawing the pattern is only confined to 3*3 matrix, the processor 104 may be configured to display the size of the matrix which is equal to or greater than 3*3 matrix because the minimum size of the matrix that is required to draw the pattern is 3*3.

[0067] In one embodiment, for the purpose of varying the size of the matrix randomly, that is displayed on the display screen of the user device 102 before authentication process, the processor 104 may be configured to display the size of the matrix which is equal to or less than the minimum size of the matrix that is required to draw the pattern, wherein the user may be capable to change the size of the matrix to the required size.

[0068] In an exemplary embodiment, if the pattern is drawn on 6*6 matrix, but the number of dots used for drawing the pattern is only confined to 4*4 matrix, the processor 104 may be configured to display the size of the matrix which is equal to or less than 4*4 matrix because the minimum size of the matrix that is required to draw the pattern is 4*4.

[0069] In one embodiment, the processor 104 may be configured to set the default size of the matrix, wherein the default size of the matrix may be a static value or any random value, wherein the user may be capable to change the default size of the matrix which is set by the processor 104.

[0070] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor 104 may be configured to set the default size of the matrix equals to the minimum size of the matrix which is required to draw the pattern, wherein the user may capable to change the default size of the matrix which is set by the processor 104.

[0071] In one embodiment, the default size of the matrix may be any random value irrespective of the minimum size of the matrix required to draw the pattern. The default size of the matrix may change randomly. [0072] COMPARISON MODULE

[0073] In one embodiment, the comparison module 112 may compare the pattern drawn by the user with the unlocking pattern which is pre-defined by the user. The processor 104 may be configured to unlock the user device 102 only if the pattern drawn by the user matches with the user-defined unlocking pattern.

[0074] In one embodiment, the configurable multi-dot system has many advantages. The most important advantage is that the system 101 is highly secured. Further, the system 101 may be easily accessed by visually disabled person, which may be another advantage of the present system 101.

[0075] Figure 2 illustrates a method 200 depicting stepwise process for configurable multi-dot authentication, performed by the system 101, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter. The user may initiate the method 200 by providing input parameter using the input/output interface 105. The method 200 may be described in the general context of computer executable instructions. Generally, computer executable instructions can include routines, programs, objects, components, data structures, procedures, modules, functions, etc., that perform particular functions or implement particular abstract data types. The method 200 may also be practiced in a distributed computing environment where functions are performed by remote processing devices that are linked through a communications network. In a distributed computing environment, computer executable instructions may be located in both local and remote computer storage media, including memory storage devices.

[0076] The order in which the method 200 is described is not intended to be construed as a limitation, and any number of the described method blocks can be combined in any order to implement the method 200 or alternate methods. Additionally, individual blocks may be deleted from the method 200 without departing from the spirit and scope of the subject matter described herein. Furthermore, the method can be implemented in any suitable hardware, software, firmware, or combination thereof. However, for ease of explanation, in the embodiments described below, the method 200 may be considered to be implemented in the above described system 101. [0077] At step 201, the system 101 may be capable to set the size of the matrix. In one implementation, the parameter module 108 may receive input form the user. The user may set the size of matrix of dots by providing inputs. The user may draw a pattern using the dots of the matrix. The size of matrix of dots set by the user may be dynamically modifiable i.e. the user may change or modify the size of the matrix at any time before drawing pattern for authentication and subsequently the matrix may be regenerated. The matrix of the dot may be displayed on the display screen of the user device 102.

[0078] In one embodiment, the processor 104 may be configured to set the size of a matrix of dots, wherein the size of the matrix may be set as default size of the matrix. The size of matrix is dynamically modifiable.

[0079] In one embodiment, the size of matrix is set by an input means. The input means may further comprise an image capturing means; or a voice code or command; or the gesture recognition means or saved data sets which are in encrypted or unencrypted format; or means recognisable by human senses. The means recognisable by human senses may further comprise a written or printed paper; or oral communication; or data conveyed by touch senses; or data conveyed by tactile senses; or manually using a user interface which have plurality of buttons, wherein the user may be capable to set the size of matrix by pressing the corresponding button; or a user interface which have a slide control mechanism, wherein the user may be capable to set the required size of matrix by sliding the cursor on the slide control bar; or a user interface which have recycle button, wherein the user may be capable to set the required size of matrix by pressing the recycle button; or making a pinch on the display screen, wherein the user the user may be capable to set the required size of matrix by making use of pinch-in gesture or pinch-out gesture; or number of taps on the display screen; or number of multi touch on the display screen; or physical or virtual keyboard clicks; or voice commands or the like.

[0080] In one embodiment, in order to set the size of matrix by conveying data by touch senses on a display screen, the size of the generated matrix is same as the number of contact points sensed by the sensor 103 of the display screen simultaneously. [0081] In one embodiment, size of the set matrix for authentication is either kept constant or it is dynamically defined by the user based on the user's input. The maximum size of the matrix depends on various factors such as the size of a display screen on the user device 102, pixels of the display screen of the user device 102, density of the display screen of the user device 102 or the like.

[0082] At step 202, the matrix of the dot may be displayed on the display screen of the user device 102 in order to facilitate the user to draw the desired pattern on the matrix.

[0083] At step 203, the user may be enabled to draw a pattern by touching one or more dots in the matrix, wherein every single dot is enabled to get repeated in the pattern one or more times. In one implementation, the pattern sensing module 109 may sense the pattern drawn by the user on the matrix of dots. The user may draw the pattern by touching one or more dots in the matrix, wherein every single dot may be enabled to get repeated in the pattern one or more times. Repetition of dots in a pattern for unlocking the user device 102 may enable to generate infinite combinations of patterns with each dot. Each dot of the matrix may be repeated infinite number of times in a pattern.

[0084] In one embodiment, the processing module 110 may process the pattern drawn by the user using one or more dots of the set size of matrix. The processor 104 may be configured to label each dot of the matrix using unique combination of row number of the dot and corresponding column number of that dot in order to allot unique identity to each dot. Further, the processor 104 may be configured to read out the label of the dot as the user touches the dot.

[0085] In one embodiment, the processor 104 may be configured to enable the user to draw the pattern when one or more contact points are sensed by the sensor 103 of the user device 102 simultaneously or separately and the pattern may be drawn simultaneously or separately on the display screen of the user device, wherein the pattern may be drawn in continuation or in parts. [0086] In one embodiment, the facility of using single dot one or more times in the pattern may be provided by using either by space ignoring method or by repeat allowing method or a combination thereof.

[0087] In one embodiment, for the facility of using single dot one or more times in the pattern may be provided by using space ignoring method, the peripheral area between two adjacent dot may be divided into three imaginary parts (may or may not be equal parts) wherein, extreme two parts may be associated with adjacent dots and the areas to these extreme parts may be in a radial orientation and middle part may respond to an area not covered by the radial orientations of the adjacent dots and further the middle part may not be associated with either of the dot and may provide an area to ignore the 2 dots or to skip the 2 dots in the sequence of pattern dots.

[0088] In one embodiment, wherein, while drawing the pattern, if the line of pattern passes through any of the two extreme parts then the processor 104 may be configured to consider the dot corresponding to the selected extreme part and if the line of pattern passes through the middle part then the processor 104 may be configured to ignore both the dots which will not be included in the pattern.

[0089] In one embodiment, the facility of using single dot one or more times in the pattern may be provided by using repeat allowing method. According to repeat allowing method, if the line of pattern passes through any of the dot and/or a radial area around the dot a more than one time, then the processor 104 may be configured to include the dot in the pattern.

[0090] At step 204, the pattern recognition module 111 may recognise the pattern defined by the user as an unlocking pattern for authentication purpose by confirming the pattern by enabling user to draw the pattern again.

[0091] At step 205, the user may be enabled to draw the pattern every time using one or more dots of the matrix in order to unlock the user device. In one implementation, the pattern sensing module 109 may enable the user to draw the pattern every time before authentication process using one or more dots of the matrix of different size or on the matrix of same size in order to unlock the user device 101. The same pattern using same number of dot(s) having same unique identity may be drawn on the matrix of different size or on the matrix of same size.

[0092] In one embodiment, the parameter module 108 may enable the user to modify the size of the matrix at any time before drawing pattern for authentication and subsequently the matrix may be regenerated. The user may draw the same pattern using same dots (having same unique identity) on matrix of different size.

[0093] In one embodiment, the user may keep the size of the matrix constant every time i.e. the user may set the size of the matrix once and may use the same matrix every time for drawing the pattern or the user may dynamically define or modify the size of matrix by providing inputs.

[0094] In one embodiment, the processor 104 may be configured to vary, the size of the set matrix for authentication, randomly based on the geo location or it may vary randomly based on the user's input.

[0095] In one embodiment, the random variation in the size of the matrix that is displayed on the display screen of the user device 101 before authentication process may be executed when any unrecorded or unfamiliar geo location is detected, the processor 104 may be configured to display the matrix of random size i.e. if the location detected by the user device 101 is not familiar then the display screen of the user device 101 may display the matrix of different sizes every time before the authentication processes.

[0096] In one embodiment, for the purpose of varying the size of the matrix randomly, that is displayed on the display screen of the user device 101 before authentication process, the processor 104 may be configured to display the size of the matrix which is equal to or greater than the minimum size of the matrix that is required to draw the pattern, wherein the user may be capable to change the size of the matrix to the required size.

[0097] In one embodiment, if the pattern is drawn on 6*6 matrix, but the number of dots used for drawing the pattern is only confined to 3*3 matrix, the processor 104 may be configured to display the size of the matrix which is equal to or greater than 3*3 matrix because the minimum size of the matrix that is required to draw the pattern is 3*3. [0098] In one embodiment, for the purpose of varying the size of the matrix randomly, that is displayed on the display screen of the user device 102 before authentication process, the processor 104 may be configured to display the size of the matrix which is equal to or less than the minimum size of the matrix that is required to draw the pattern, wherein the user may be capable to change the size of the matrix to the required size.

[0099] In one embodiment, if the pattern is drawn on 6*6 matrix, but the number of dots used for drawing the pattern is only confined to 4*4 matrix, the processor 104 may be configured to display the size of the matrix which is equal to or less than 4*4 matrix because the minimum size of the matrix that is required to draw the pattern is 4*4.

[00100] In one embodiment, the processor 104 may be configured to set the default size of the matrix, wherein the default size of the matrix may be a static value or any random value, wherein the user may be capable to change the default size of the matrix which is set by the processor 104.

[00101] In an exemplary embodiment, the processor 104 may be configured to set the default size of the matrix equals to the minimum size of the matrix which is required to draw the pattern, wherein the user may capable to change the default size of the matrix which is set by the processor 104.

[00102] In one embodiment, the default size of the matrix may be any random value irrespective of the minimum size of the matrix required to draw the pattern. The default size of the matrix may change randomly.

[00103] At stem 206, the comparison module 112 may compare the pattern drawn by the user with the unlocking pattern which is pre-defined by the user.

[00104] At step 207, the processor 104 may be configured to unlock the user device 102 only if the pattern drawn by the user matches with the user defined unlocking pattern.

[00105] Now referring to figure 3, illustrates a method of including the dots in the pattern if the line of pattern passes through the dot and/or radial orientation of the dot using space ignoring method, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00106] In one embodiment, the size of the matrix is 2*2 and the labelling of the dots of the matrix is dot 1,1; dot 1,2; dot 2,1 and dot 2,2. The line of pattern passes through the radial area around the dot 1,1 and the dot 1,2 as shown in figure 3. According to space ignoring method, the dot 1,1 and the dot 1,2 may be included in the sequence of the pattern.

[00107] Now referring to figure 4, illustrates a method of ignoring the dots if the line of pattern passes through the middle part using space ignoring method, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00108] In one embodiment, the size of the matrix is 2*2 and the labelling of the dots of the matrix is dot 1,1; dot 1,2; dot 2,1 and dot 2,2. The line of pattern does not pass through the periphery or radial area of any of the dot. The line of pattern passes through the middle part of the (dot 2,1; dot 1,1) and (dot 1,1; dot 1,2) respectively as shown in figure 4. According to space ignoring method, dot 2,1; dot 1,1 and dot 1,2 may not be included in the sequence of the pattern and therefore none of the dots may be selected.

[00109] Now referring to figure 5, illustrates a method of including the dots if the line of pattern passes through a single dot more than one time using repeat allowing method, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00110] In one embodiment, the size of the matrix is 2*2 and the labelling of the dots of the matrix is dot 1,1; dot 1,2; dot 2,1 and dot 2,2. The line of pattern passes twice through each of the dot 1,1; dot 1,2 and dot 2,2. According to repeat allowing method as well as space ignoring method, since the line of pattern passes twice through the radial area of each of the dot 1,1; dot 1,2 and dot 2,2, as well as through each of the dot 1,1; dot 1,2 and dot 2,2 therefore all the three dots i.e. dot 1,1; dot 1,2 and dot 2,2 may be included two times in the sequence for pattern, i.e. if the user draws the pattern next time, so in order to draw the correct pattern to unlock the user device 102, the user will have to touch all the three dots two times. [00111] Now referring to figure 6, illustrates 3*3 matrix and the pattern drawn by the user on the matrix, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00112] In an exemplary embodiment, the size of matrix is set as 3*3 by the user and the pattern is drawn using the dots of the matrix. According to figure 6, in order to draw a pattern, dot 1,1 is touched one time; dot 2,1 is touched three times; dot 2,2 is touched two times; dot 2,3 is touched two times; dot 1,3 is touched one time and dot 1,2 is touched two times. The drawn pattern may be recognised as an unlocking pattern. Now, next time, in order to unlock the user device 102, the user may have to draw the same pattern using the dots with same labelling for same number of times in a same sequence as used earlier for the unlocking pattern.

[00113] In one embodiment, the user may draw the same pattern using the dots with same labelling for same number of times in a same sequence on the matrix of size 3*3.

[00114] In one embodiment, the user may modify the matrix and may draw the same pattern using the dots with same labelling for same number of times in a same sequence on the modified matrix i.e. on 4*4 matrix, 5*5 matrix, 6*6 matrix, etc.

[00115] Now referring to figure 7, illustrates 6*6 matrix and the pattern drawn by the user on the matrix, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00116] In one embodiment, the size of the matrix may be defined or modified by different input means. The input means may further comprise an image capturing means; or a voice code or command; or the gesture recognition means or saved data sets which are in encrypted or unencrypted format; or means recognisable by human senses. The means recognisable by human senses may further comprise a written or printed paper; or oral communication; or data conveyed by touch senses; or data conveyed by tactile senses; manually using a user interface which have plurality of buttons, wherein the user may be capable to set the size of matrix by pressing the corresponding button; or a user interface which have a slide control mechanism, wherein the user is may be capable to set the required size of matrix by sliding the cursor on the slide control bar; or a user interface which have recycle button, wherein the user is may be capable to set the required size of matrix by pressing the recycle button; or making a pinch on the display screen, wherein the user the user may be capable to set the required size of matrix by making use of pinch-in gesture or pinch-out gesture; or number of taps on the display screen; or number of multi touch on the display screen; or physical or virtual keyboard clicks; or voice commands or the like.

[00117] In one embodiment, the size of matrix may be dynamically modifiable i.e. the user may modify the size of matrix at any time before starting to draw the pattern for authentication and subsequently the matrix may be regenerated.

[00118] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to figure 6 and 7, user set the size of matrix as 3*3 while setting the pattern as an unlocking pattern. Now, next time the user modifies the size of matrix from 3*3 to 6*6 and draw the pattern in order to unlock the user device 102. In such case, the user must draw the same pattern using the dots with same labelling for same number of times in a same sequence on the modified matrix in order to unlock the user device 102. i.e. the user must draw the same pattern by using dot 1,1 (one time); dot 2,1 (three times); dot 2,2 (two times); dot 2,3 (two times); dot 1,3 (one time) and dot 1,2 (two times) in the same sequence.

[00119] Now referring to figure 8, that illustrates a method 800 of setting the size of matrix by showing required number of fingers in front of the image/gesture capturing means of the user device 102, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00120] In one embodiment, the size of the matrix may be set or modified by showing required number of fingers in front of the image capturing means of the user device 102 i.e. without touching on the display screen of the user device 102. The size of the matrix may be equal to the number of fingers shown in front of the image capturing means of the user device 102.

[00121] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to figure 801, the matrix of size may be set as 3*3 if the three fingers are shown in front of the image capturing means of the user device 102. Similarly, referring to figure 802, the matrix of size may be set as 2*2 if the two fingers are shown in front of the image capturing means of the user device 102. [00122] Referring to figure 9, that illustrates a method 900 of setting size of the matrix when one or more contact points are sensed by the sensor 103 simultaneously, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00123] In one embodiment, the size of matrix may be set by conveying data using touch senses, by touching at a plurality of contact points on the display screen and further the size of the set matrix generated is same as the number of contact points sensed by the sensor 103 of the display screen simultaneously.

[00124] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to figure 901, the matrix of size may be set as 2*2 by touching at two contact points on the display screen. Similarly, referring to figure 902, the matrix of size may be set as 3*3 by touching at three contact points on the display screen.

[00125] Figure 10 illustrates a method 1000 of setting size of the matrix using slide control mechanism, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00126] In one embodiment, a user interface may have a slide control mechanism, wherein the user is capable to set the required size of matrix by sliding the cursor on the slide control bar.

[00127] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to figure 1001, the matrix of size may be set as 2*2, when the cursor is at position "2" on the slide control bar. Similarly, referring to figure 1002, the matrix of size may be set as 3*3, when the cursor is at position "3" on the slide control bar.

[00128] Figure 11 illustrates a method 1100 of setting size of the matrix by pressing the button on the user device 102, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00129] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to figure 1101 the matrix of size may be set as 2*2, when the button showing "2" is pressed. Similarly, referring to figure 1102, the matrix of size may be set as 3*3, when the button showing "3" is pressed. [00130] Figure 12 illustrates a method 1200 of setting size of the matrix by pressing the recycle button on the display screen of the user device 102, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00131] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to figure 1201, the matrix of size 3*3 may be set by pressing the recycle button. Similarly, referring to figure 1202, the matrix of size 2*2 may be set by pressing the recycle button again.

[00132] Figure 13 illustrates a method 1300 of setting size of the matrix by making a pinch on the display screen of the user device 102, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter.

[00133] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to figure 1301, the user may pinch-in on the display screen and set the matrix of size 2*2. Similarly, referring to figure 1302, the user may pinch-out on the display screen and set the matrix of size 3*3.

[00134] Figure 14 illustrates a method 1400 of drawing the pattern when one or more contacts points are sensed by the sensor 103 simultaneously or separately and the pattern is drawn simultaneously or separately on the display screen of the user device 102, in accordance with the embodiment of the present subject matter. The pattern may be drawn in parts or in continuation.

[00135] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to figure 1401, two contact points may be sensed by the sensor 103 simultaneously or separately and a pattern is drawn in continuation, on the display screen of the user device 102.

[00136] In an exemplary embodiment, referring to figure 1402 and 1403, two contact points may be sensed by the sensor 103 simultaneously or separately and a pattern is drawn in-parts, on the display screen of the user device 102.

[00137] In one embodiment, the facility of enabling the user to change or modify the size of the matrix may be disabled as soon as the user starts drawing the pattern. If the user wants to change the size then the user may need to reset the method i.e. start the method from the beginning. [00138] In one embodiment, while the invention has been described above only few sensors such touch sensor, sound sensor, etc. All other sensor such as but are not limited to image capturing means, gesture sensor, motion sensor, proximity sensor, light sensor, pressure sensor are possible to use and within scope of invention disclosed.

[00139] The embodiments, examples and alternatives of the preceding paragraphs or the description and drawings, including any of their various aspects or respective individual features, may be taken independently or in any combination. Features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless such features are incompatible.

[00140] Although implementations for configurable multi-dot authentication system and method have been described in language specific to structural features and/or methods, it is to be understood that the appended claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or methods described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed as examples of implementations for configurable multi-dot based authentication system.