Product Authentication System
Glossary
Term DefinitionsBlockchainA secure, decentralized transaction recording system that uses cryptography to link blocks of data together. Smart ContractA computer program stored on a blockchain that automatically executes when predefined conditions are met. Non-Fungible Token (NFT)A unique, non-interchangeable digital asset that represents ownership of a digital or physical item. Near Field Communication (NFC)A short-range wireless communication technology that allows devices to exchange data through close contact. Identity TokenA cryptographic identifier that uniquely identifies an entity (such as a person or product) on a blockchain. Product Authentication SystemA system for verifying the authenticity of a product using a physical tag, blockchain technology, and a secure tracking mechanism. Digital TwinA virtual representation of a physical product in the digital world that contains all of its relevant information and history. Tamper-proof TagA physical tag that shows obvious signs of tampering and is used to ensure the authenticity of a product. Secure Unique NFC (SUN)An NFC security mechanism that generates a unique authentication message each time the tag is scanned. Distributed LedgerA database that is replicated and synchronized across multiple nodes to ensure data integrity and transparency.
Short Answer Questions
What is the main purpose of a product authentication system?
How does blockchain technology play a role in product authentication?
Briefly describe the steps of the initial authentication process in a product authentication system.
What types of tags are used in a product authentication system?
Describe the functions of the Secure Unique NFC (SUN) mechanism.
How does a product authentication system ensure the authenticity of a product?
How do digital identities used in a product authentication system work?
Briefly describe the steps of the product exchange process in a product authentication system.
What should a user do with a product authentication system if a product is stolen or lost?
How does a product authentication system compensate the initial verifier for each sale of a product?
Answer
What is the main purpose of a product authentication system? A product authentication system is designed to provide buyers and sellers with a reliable mechanism to prove the authenticity of a product and for verifiers to establish an authentication mechanism that can be trusted in downstream transactions. It prevents counterfeit products from entering the market by using cryptography, blockchain, digital assets, and tagging hardware and software.
How does blockchain technology play a role in product authentication? Blockchain technology ensures the authenticity of a product by creating a secure, immutable record of transactions, creating a transparent and auditable product history. Each transfer of ownership is recorded on the blockchain, creating a verifiable product journey.
Briefly describe the steps of the initial authentication process in a product authentication system. First, the product is sent to a trusted verifier, who verifies the authenticity of the product. If the product is deemed authentic, a unique physical tag is attached and the product and tag information is registered in the system.
What types of tags are used in the product authentication system? The system uses smart tags that support the digital twin concept, such as near field communication (NFC) tags or dual-frequency IC tags with a secure unique NFC (SUN) mechanism, to authenticate products and track their ownership history.
Describe the functionality of the secure unique NFC (SUN) mechanism. The secure unique NFC (SUN) mechanism generates a secure unique NFC message authentication every time a tag is scanned or read. This feature proves the authenticity of the product and helps prevent fraudulent activities using cloned or counterfeit tags.
How does the product authentication system ensure the authenticity of the product? The product authentication system ensures the authenticity of the product by associating the physical product with a unique digital identifier and recording the ownership history using blockchain technology. This immutable record makes it easy to verify the origin of the product and verify its authenticity.
How do digital identities used in the product authentication system work? Each entity (user, product, verifier) is assigned a unique digital identity. This identity is used to sign and verify transactions on the blockchain, ensuring that only authorized parties can transfer ownership or modify product information.
Briefly describe the steps of the product exchange process in a product authentication system. The buyer sends a purchase request to the seller and the two parties negotiate terms. After reaching an agreement, the seller scans the product label to verify ownership and initiate the transfer of ownership. The transaction is recorded on the blockchain and the buyer becomes the new verified owner.
What should users do with the product authentication system if the product is stolen or lost? Users can report the product as stolen or lost through the system. This information will be recorded on the blockchain, marking the product and preventing further transactions until appropriate action is taken to restore or verify its ownership.
How can the product authentication system compensate the initial verifier for each sale of the product? The product authentication system can be configured to automatically pay a small fee to the initial verifier each time a product is sold. This payment can be achieved through smart contracts, which automatically execute transactions when ownership is transferred.