A Variant of Time-based OTP for Enhanced Authentication in 5G Networks

Abstract

This abstract introduces a variant of Time-Based One-Time Passwords (TOTPs) tailored for enhanced authentication in 5G networks. In this approach, beyond the standard time-based element, contextual factors such as location, device information, and network characteristics are integrated into OTP generation. This adaptation aims to fortify Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) in 5G by dynamically considering the user's context during the authentication process. The system's adaptability to changes in user behaviour, technology, and security threats is emphasized. Communication of contextual data and OTPs is secured through encryption, and user-defined context rules empower users to customize authentication parameters. Privacy considerations are integral, ensuring compliance with regulations and prioritizing the minimal use of contextual information. This innovative variant provides an agile and secure MFA solution, leveraging both traditional and contextual elements for robust authentication in the dynamic landscape of 5G networks. The proposed approach mitigates the security loopholes associated with one-time password mechanisms and they cannot be repudiated by adversaries given the variant concept introduced by the inherent contextual aspects