Abstract: A digital coupon system for electronically distributing coupons and inducements to viewers over broadcast media. The system employs a viewable or audible signal to indicate to viewers the availability of a coupon or inducement during real time viewing using an image animation overlaid onto displayed ad or program content. Coupon inducements and delivery can be based on coupon business rules defining requirements for delivery. The system is especially well configured to encourage the viewing of broadcast media commercials which are frequently skipped over by viewers.

Abstract: Digital content files containing entertainment media such as movies, TV shows, and the like are distributed from at least one content source primarily responsible for the original creation of the media to subscribers over a network system. The content source is connected over at least one content source network to a plurality of distribution partners, and each distribution partner is connected with a selected group of subscribers over an access network. A requested digital content file is distributed from the content source to a subscriber in a network distribution path comprising at least the content source network, the distribution partner associated with the subscriber, and the second network. A profile information package containing subscriber preferences is transmitted from the subscriber to the content source by way of a proxy over the network distribution path, and the profile information package is stored at the content source.

Abstract: In a method of monitoring the distribution of digital content files, transaction information regarding transfer of a selected digital content file stored at a distribution provider to a distributor is obtained by a transaction monitoring module and analyzed to detect whether the transfer is valid and associated with a valid security device for the transfer. A report is generated if a security breach is detected and is used by a piracy insurance provider to assess risks in connection with a piracy insurance policy issued to the distribution provider. The security device may be an encrypted watermark or digital signature using a digital certificate associated with the distributor to which the file is transferred.

Abstract: Digital content files containing entertainment media such as movies, TV shows, and the like are distributed from at least one content source primarily responsible for the original creation of the media to subscribers over a network system. The content source is connected over at least one content source network to a plurality of distribution partners, and each distribution partner is connected with a selected group of subscribers over an access network. A requested digital content file is distributed from the content source to a subscriber in a network distribution path comprising at least the content source network, the distribution partner associated with the subscriber, and the second network. A profile information package containing subscriber preferences is transmitted from the subscriber to the content source by way of a proxy over the network distribution path, and the profile information package is stored at the content source.