Abstract: A method for facilitating the integrity validation of data files includes providing a portable cryptographic device having a software verification key, and coupling the portable cryptographic device to a computing device. The method also includes identifying a target data file for validation on the computing device, and generating a software verification value for the target data file using the software verification key. An apparatus for facilitating the integrity validation of data files includes a software verification key that is provided on a portable cryptographic device. The apparatus also includes a security logic that is coupled to the software verification key. The security logic is operable to receive as input a target data file loaded on a computing device, and to generate a software verification value for the target data file using the software verification key.

Abstract: A system, method, and apparatus for creating and securely managing accounts holding cash equivalents is disclosed. Using the system, method, and apparatus of the present invention, a business can issue an account to a consumer. The account holds cash equivalents such as electronic cash, loyalty points, or the like. When a consumer makes a purchase from the business, the value of the account increases. The purchase may be made using cash, checks, or credit cards issued by the business. Generally, the value of the account will not be increased if the consumer makes a purchase using a third party credit card such as a Visa or MasterCard. Once a consumer's account has reached a sufficient value, the consumer can use the value of the account to purchase goods and/or services from the business that issued the account. Thus, by increasing the amount of cash equivalents in a consumer's account, the consumer has an incentive to purchase goods and/or services from the business.