Abstract: An online event presentation system where remotely located audience members may present questions to a panel of one or more remotely located guest speakers, moderated by one or more remotely located operators, is presented.

Abstract: In an example implementation according to aspects of the present disclosure, a method may include receiving, at an optical receiver of a first device, a transmission signal from an optical transmitter source of a second device. The method may include decoding the transmission signal to generate a pairing code, and using the pairing code to pair the first and second devices together for wireless communication. The method may include granting a level of access control of the first device to the second device via the wireless communication, wherein the level of access control is based on the pairing code.

Abstract: Dynamic web content personalization may be used to alter a web page such that two different people who view that web page do not see the exact same content on that page. The present disclosure includes techniques that allow a web page to be structured, via underlying source code, so that content can be dynamically generated based on a user transaction history. Further, dynamic content customization can effectively change the layout and functionality of a web page in ways not previously contemplated. For example, different control elements may become accessible based on a particular contextual user profile assigned to a user based on a transaction history. Modular content modules may also have a different appearance for different users.

Abstract: A cross-network call identifying function for identifying instances of international call interconnect bypass telecommunications fraud. The cross-network call identifying function access call detail records of both the terminating network and the originating network. The cross-network call identifying function identifies an outgoing international phone call from a caller within the originating network to a callee within the terminating network. The call detail records of the terminating network are querried for an incoming call with a matching callee call identifier. Time information of the outgoing call and the incoming call are compared to determine whether there is a match. If the callee call identifiers and time information match, but the incoming phone call is recorded as a local call, then the incoming call is identified as an instance of international call interconnect bypass fraud.

Abstract: A system for securely sharing data and conducting transactions in an electronic environment. The system may include a personal information device having a processor, memory and biometric sensor. Personal data is stored in the memory of the personal information device. The personal information device may be registered with a centralized system. Data stored on the personal information device may be uploaded to an access device upon verification of a user's identity using a biometric recognition technique.

Abstract: The present invention provides a ubiquitous solution for providing charge-related voice service such as voice announcement and interactive voice response in an IP multimedia subsystem. In particularly, an online charging system (10) detects the subscriber account profile of a user terminal (51) to determine whether there is an event for providing an end user with voice announcement or interactive voice response (S203). If there is such voice announcement event or interactive voice response event, the online charging system (10) will enter “redirection state” and send an instruction (S204) to an online charging client (20) for instructing the online charging client (20) to redirect the user terminal to a first server (30) for providing voice announcement or interactive voice response such that the first server (30) provides the user terminal (51) with voice announcement or interactive voice response.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for managing a transfer of data in a data network identifies data associated with a communication session between a first node and a second node in the data network. Further processing of the communication session occurs when a portion of the communication session meets a criterion and the communication session is permitted to continue when the portion of the communication session does not meet the criterion.

Abstract: A method and system for providing a user with digital content includes a user interface provided to a user for allowing the user to be presented with the digital content. The method and system includes receiving authentication information from the user and authenticating the user if the authentication method correctly corresponds with previously stored information of the user. As a result, the user has access to the digital content, wherein the digital content is information from a third party, e.g., a vendor of goods or services or information provider, based on a user profile which comprises user preferences. The digital content is then presented to the user interface.

Abstract: Pre-authorized communication services and/or transactions are provided via a plurality of networks in response to a request received from a user to provide at least one of a communication service, a transaction and user account information via a plurality of networks of different types. Prior to processing the request, there is verification of the user's authorization to receive the at least one of the communication service, the transaction, and the user account information, and that an account associated with the user has a sufficient amount currently available for payment of the at least one of the communication service and the transaction. After verification, an authorized account associated with the user is charged in real time as the at least one of the communication service and the transaction is provided.

Abstract: A system and method for billing an incoming communication. A code is received from a calling party during the incoming communication. Expenses of the incoming communication are allocated to an account of the calling party in response to receiving the code. An invoice is generated for the calling party and a receiving party specifying the expenses.

Abstract: A method of providing telephone services includes receiving an advanced payment. The advanced payment corresponds to a fixed time interval of telephone service spanning at least one day. The method also includes activating service to a mobile device for the fixed time interval and collecting a plurality of call data.

Abstract: In certain embodiments, a system for automated distribution and indexing of prepaid calling card information comprises a central terminal operable to receive a request to purchase prepaid telephone services from an initiating terminal. The request comprises an identifier of a financial account to be used to purchase the prepaid telephone services. The central terminal is operable to electronically seek authorization for the request, initiate electronic debiting of the financial account using the identifier, and log a transaction indicating a purchase of prepaid telephone services in response to receipt of the authorization. The central terminal is operable to initiate electronic transmission, according to purchaser contact information, of calling card information from the central terminal to at least one electronic storage medium for access by a purchaser.

Abstract: Prepaid services include a multi-user prepaid services account as well as a prepaid balance associated with the account. A plurality of user records associated with the account each includes a quota. A service monitoring component may be configured to repeatedly draw down the prepaid balance by providing one or more allocations of the prepaid balance during a service period to a user associated with a respective user record.

Abstract: A set of multiple prepaid calling cards that are associated with a single account is disclosed. A predetermined amount of minutes is associated with the set of cards. Cards within the set can be used simultaneously and extract minutes from the account in predetermined increments. Each card can use the same Personal Identification Number (PIN) or each card can have its own unique PIN. In some instances, any card in the set can recharge the account, (i.e., add more minutes to the account), or in some embodiments, only a control card can add minutes to the account.

Abstract: Embodiments may comprise hardware and/or code within a cellular phone to process data related to charges for a call to indicate the charges to the user. In some embodiments, the charges may be presented in the form of an icon. The icon may indicate whether or not charges apply to the call, a range of charges, and/or a rate of charge. Further embodiments may display characters describing conditional charges for a call. In still further embodiments, the charges for a call may be indicated by an audible alert such as a volume, frequency, pattern of frequencies, or a voice generated. Embodiments may also include hardware and/or code of a cellular phone server such as an MTSO to gather and transmit account information to a cellular phone (or apparatus with similar functionality such as a mobile broadband card).

Abstract: The computer implemented method and system disclosed herein enables online networking based on exchange of virtual electronic cards between a plurality of users. An online networking environment is provided to a user. The user creates a personal profile in the online networking environment. Further, the user may create a company profile or link with an existing company profile. A virtual electronic card of the user is automatically created in the online networking environment. The virtual electronic card is one of a personal electronic card and a company electronic card. A personal contact network of the user is established in the online networking environment by exchanging personal electronic cards between the user and the plurality of users. Further, a company contact network of the company of the user is established by exchanging company electronic cards between the company of the user and a plurality of companies.

Abstract: A clearinghouse server for routing multi-media communications, including telephony calls, between a source device and a destination device via a distributed computer network, such as the global Internet. The clearinghouse server can authorize the completion of a communication from a source device to a destination device and collect usage-related information for the completed communication. In response to an authorization request issued by an enrolled source device, the clearinghouse server can identify one or more available destination devices available to accept a communication from an authorized source device. The clearinghouse server can provide a list of the identified destination devices, typically organized in a rank order, by sending an authorization response to the source device. In turn, the source device can use this list to select a destination device and contact that selected device via the computer network to complete the communication.

Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for providing a temporary wireless service connection to one or more users within a wireless local area network. In-building services and Internet related services are provided to the users over their respective temporary wireless service connections. Each user is charged for their specific usage amounts which may be based on the number of packets transferred, the number of bytes transferred, the number of distinct transactions and/or the time period each user's temporary wireless service connection was active.

Abstract: A method for charging for services in a communication system comprises a charging entity. The method comprises a step of sending a first message to the charging entity. The method also comprises a step of generating a charging identity at the charging entity if it is determined that the first message does not include a charging identity.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and devices are provided for providing dynamic service provisioning. One method embodiment includes initiating a request for a non subscription service that is provided by a wireless service provider, receiving the request to a subscription database, and providing an option to receive the non subscription service as a per use service.

Abstract: A call authorization system moves state maintenance for authorization based phone calls from a central authorization server to different gateways in a packet switched network. A simple authorization session protocol is used between the authorization server and the gateways to minimize network traffic. The authorization session protocol releases the authorization server from having to maintain states for open authorization based phone calls.

Abstract: The invention provides a system and method for providing a temporary wireless service connection to one or more users within a wireless local area network. In-building services and Internet related services are provided to the users over their respective temporary wireless service connections. Each user is charged for their specific usage amounts which may be based on the number of packets transferred, the number of bytes transferred, the number of distinct transactions and/or the time period each user's temporary wireless service connection was active.

Abstract: A calling card system includes a public switched telephone network (PSTN) and a service selection gateway. The PSTN may receive calls from communication devices that may be either voice communication or data communication. The calls may be forwarded to the service selection gateway based on a calling card access number that is included in the call. Calls that are voice communication may be transferred to the PSTN or to a public network by the service selection gateway. The service selection gateway may provide voice communication transferred to the public network in a voice based network protocol such as VoIP that is transmittable over the public network. Calls that are data communication may be selectively transmitted over the public network in a data network protocol with the service selection gateway.

Abstract: Systems and methods for the dissemination of information from a controlled environment facility employ facility information management functionality managing resident information and facility information, and call manager functionality selectively providing at least a portion of the resident information and/or the facility information to an outside party in an automated manner. The invention may employ outgoing IVR functionality to provide select portions of the resident information in response to the call manager recognizing that a call is a first call by a resident, or a first call to a particular telephone number by a resident. The invention may manage information related to providers of services or goods for residents of a facility, provide an outside party this information, and notify a selected provider of selection of that provider by the outside party to provide goods or services for a resident.

Abstract: A system for enabling an inmate to make a telephone call to a called party telephone located outside of a correctional facility includes a facility network having inmate and prepaid platforms associated with a PSTN. A called party provides the prepaid platform with information regarding a prepaid card purchased by the called party and the called party telephone number. The prepaid platform associates the telephone number with a prepaid account of the called party, determines value of the prepaid card based on its information, and then transfers the value to the prepaid account. An inmate uses an inmate telephone within the facility to make a telephone call to the called party telephone via the PSTN. The network completes the call if the call is authorized, the called party has a prepaid account associated with the telephone number, and the value of the prepaid account is sufficient for paying for the call.

Abstract: A prepaid long-distance telephone calling card has two or more distinct PIN numbers each obscured by opaque scratch-off material. Each PIN number is associated with prepaid value. A user can scratch off the opaque material for PIN numbers one by one, and the value for each PIN number expires in a way that is unrelated to any other PIN number on the card.

Abstract: A communication billing system comprising a processing system coupled to an interface system. The processing system is configured to process a plurality of wireless service events from a wireless system together at the event level with a plurality of wireline service events from a wireline system to generate total charge records for a plurality of wireless services and a plurality of wireline services. The processing system is also configured to process the total charge records for the plurality of wireless services and the plurality of wireline services to generate a customer bill. The interface system is configured to receive the plurality of wireless service events from the wireless system, receive the plurality of wireline service events from the wireline system, and transmit the customer bill for the processing system.

Abstract: A method for providing a wireless telephone service includes providing a wireless handset having an associated telephone number, and a dedicated programmable wireless switch coupled to a public switched telephone network and a billing server. The handset communicates with the switch to place and receive calls to and from selected telephone numbers on respective ones of a secured list, and optionally, a dependent list. Two billing accounts are associated with the handset, a secured account having a password and the telephone numbers of the secured list associated with it, and a dependent account having a password and the telephone numbers of the dependent list, if any, associated with it. Completed incoming calls to or from the handset in which the telephone number of the caller or the number being called corresponds to a number of the secured and dependent lists are debited to the secured and dependent accounts, respectively, and calls to and from other numbers are billed to the dependent account.

Abstract: A method for placing a telephone call from a caller using a prepaid phone card includes the steps of connecting a caller with a caller interface having a speech recognition application, receiving voice input from the caller in the form of phone card information spoken by the caller, comparing the voice input from the caller with personalized prepaid phone card information previously stored in a database and placing a requested telephone call if the voice input from the caller matches the personalized prepaid phone card information stored in the database. The personalized prepaid phone card information stored in the database may be a personal identification number (PIN) assigned to the caller's phone card and the voice input from the caller is in the form of a personal identification number (PIN) spoken by the caller. The speech recognition application then compares the spoken personal identification number with the personal identification number (PIN) stored in the database.

Abstract: A method of providing pre-authorized communication services and/or transactions via a plurality of networks, including accepting and processing a request from a user to provide at least one of a communication service, a transaction and user account information via a plurality of networks of different types, verifying that the user is authorized to receive the at least one of the communication service, the transaction, and the user account information, and that an account associated with the user has a sufficient amount currently available for payment of the at least one of the communication service and the transaction and charging, in real time, an authorized account associated with the user as the at least one of the communication service and the transaction is provided.

Abstract: A method and system for prepaying credits to a user account for communications services provided. If a system detects a predefined condition associated with a communications connection, the system deducts the cost of the communications connection from the credit in the user account. The predefined condition includes the origination of the communications connection from one of a plurality of predefined sources. Software for implementing the method may be implemented in a number of environments, including a computer system accessible remotely or a processor located on the user's telephone.

Abstract: A set of multiple prepaid calling cards that are associated with a single account is disclosed. A predetermined amount of minutes is associated with the set of cards. Cards within the set can be used simultaneously and extract minutes from the account in predetermined increments. Each card can use the same Personal Identification Number (PIN) or each card can have its own unique PIN. In some instances, any card in the set can recharge the account, (i.e., add more minutes to the account), or in some embodiments, only a control card can add minutes to the account.

Abstract: A method and system for prepaying credits to a user account for communications services is provided. A system receives an origination number and a code. The code corresponds to a predefined payment amount for prepaid credit. The system credits an account associated with the origination number with the predefined payment amount for prepaid credit. Software for implementing the method and system may be implemented in a number of environments, including a computer system accessible remotely or a processor located on a user communication device.

Abstract: There is provided an information storage output system enhanced in mobility and improved in convenience to use. In the information storage output system for storing predetermined storage data in a storage server on a network, the storage server can be accessed from many and unspecified communication devices. The information storage output system includes a plurality of remote output terminals for outputting supply data supplied via a network in a predetermined output form, a remote output server having a function of supplying at least the supply data to one of the remote output terminals, and an output request communication terminal for transmitting a primary output request of the storage data to the storage server or the remote output server via a network. The storage data is output from the remote output terminal in response to the primary output request transmitted from the output request communication terminal.

Abstract: A method and system for providing prepaid billing for two concurrent communication sessions is accomplished by a first-network-access device, such as a WIN SCP, receiving from a prepaid-user account prepaid services for a first-communication session. During the first-communication session, a second-network-access device, e.g., an AAA server, requests from the prepaid-user account additional prepaid services for a second- communication session that is to occur on a data network. In response to the request, the first-network-access device receives from a prepaid-billing system a status-update request. Responsive to the update request, the first-network-access device sends to the prepaid-billing system the prepaid-service usage for the first communication session. The prepaid billing system updates the prepaid user account by debiting the prepaid services usage from the prepaid-user account.

Abstract: Inmates place free incoming calls to a call processing system and are prompted to choose between accessing a voice mail system and calling an outside party. If an outside party is to be called, an inmate provides a phone number and an outgoing call is placed to the outside party. If the outside party provides payment for the call, the inmate is connected to the outgoing call and the incoming call is terminated. If the outgoing call is not accepted, the inmate may record a voice message for the outside party in a voice mailbox assigned to the inmate. For an access fee, the outside party may access the voice mailbox assigned to the inmate. Advertising messages may be presented to inmates during incoming calls and/or to outside parties during outgoing calls. Advertising revenue may cover incoming call charges. Inmates and/or outside parties may record voice messages for advertisers.

Abstract: A subscriber's line is associated with a prepaid long distance account. When the subscriber attempts a long distance call, it is determined from the dialed digits whether the attempted call is a long distance call. If a long distance call is attempted, the subscriber's prepaid account is checked to determine whether it has any remaining credits. If no credits are remaining, the subscriber is so informed, and the call is disconnected. If the subscriber has credits remaining, the call is connected as long as credits are remaining in the prepaid account.

Abstract: A set activation fee pay telephone permits a telephone customer to place a telephone call from a pay telephone if the customer presents valid billing information, and charges the customer a fixed fee for the call, plus any other applicable network charges. The set activation pay telephone accepts two inputs: a telephone number the customer desires to call and billing information. The set activation fee pay telephone stores the telephone number locally and transmits the billing information to a network element. A determination is made as to whether the billing information is valid. Typically, the determination is made by querying a billing database. If the billing information is valid, then an approval signal is transmitted to the set activation fee pay telephone. Once the set activation fee pay telephone receives the approval signal, it passes the telephone number stored in memory to the PSTN and the call is placed normally.

Abstract: In an implementation of collect callback, a call-in service establishes a communication link with a caller and initiates a collect callback option for the caller. A switch receives callback data from the call-in service and utilizes the callback data to establish a collect call via a second communication link between the caller and the call-in service.

Abstract: A prepaid virtual calling card, specifically for providing users (consumers and business affiliates) with an on-line method and apparatus to create custom prepaid calling cards for immediate use and distribution, wherein the prepaid virtual calling card is created by: connecting a user via a communications network to at least one server; presenting the user with an applications supplied by the server for the issuance of the virtual calling card; submitting the application to the server; and issuing the virtual calling card.

Abstract: A multipurpose card serves as an effective marketing tool in today's competitive marketplace. The multipurpose card includes a main portion and a key ring portion. The key ring portion may be separated from the main portion.

Abstract: The balance or a portion of the balance associated with a prepaid card with or without a microcircuit is paid into a balance portion collection server, as a donations to charities, after setting up a call between a terminal and the server and after confirmation of the payment by the user at the terminal to increment a counter with the balance or balance portion. In another embodiment, balance portions are paid cyclically into the server or into a connection unit as and when a telephone call runs.

Abstract: There is provided a prepaid system able to reduce inconvenience caused by issuing and using a large number of prepaid cards. A communication terminal purchases a prepaid number related to a predetermined amount of money by using a deposit of the communication terminal made in advance and managed by the prepaid system, and pays for its communication charge using the predetermined amount of money related to the prepaid number. Or, the communication terminal uses a prepaid count set in advance and managed by the prepaid system to pay for its communication charge before or after the communication made by the communication terminal. Or, the communication terminal assigns a part of its prepaid count managed by the prepaid system to other communication terminals to pay for their communication charges before or after the communications made by the other communication terminals.

Abstract: A system and method for transferring money by use of a prepaid card account is disclosed wherein two cards are issued to the user accountholder, one of which is provided to another user, and either user may add value to the prepaid account so that the other user may use the card and that value in a financial transaction.

Abstract: A method and system for prepaying credits to a user account for communications services provided. If a system detects a predefined condition associated with a communications connection, the system deducts the cost of the communications connection from the credit in the user account. The predefined condition includes the origination of the communications connection from one of a plurality of predefined sources. Software for implementing the method may be implemented in a number of environments, including a computer system accessible remotely or a processor located on the user's telephone.

Abstract: A method and system for prepaying credits to a user account for communications services is provided. A system receives an origination number and a code. The code corresponds to a predefined payment amount for prepaid credit. The system credits an account associated with the origination number with the predefined payment amount for prepaid credit. Software for implementing the method and system may be implemented in a number of environments, including a computer system accessible remotely or a processor located on a user communication device.

Abstract: A computer implemented method, computer program product and system are provided for implementing calling card security. A telephone call request is received from a calling card user. A plurality of predefined options is checked to identify user selected options for the calling card. The telephone call request from the calling card user is processed responsive to the identified user selected options for the calling card. During calling card setup, the calling card user can selectively enable multiple predefined options for use of the calling card. The calling card user can selectively enable use of the calling card for one or more user specified telephone numbers, use of the calling card to a user specified limited area, use of the calling card with voice recognition, use of the calling card for a user specified limited number of calls from a specified telephone number; and use of the calling card for a user specified limited time duration for a call.

Abstract: The present invention is a method and apparatus for providing prepaid card service to customers for placing telephone calls without relying on a post-service billing model. A service management computer having access to a card database is connected to the network only by out-of-band connections. A voice response unit or a tone receiver and announcement player in the network are the voice interface with the customer and are provided at the originating switch in the network to eliminate multiple switches from the call path.

Abstract: A system and methods for allowing wireless users to make and send calls using a second wireless billing number or “line” assigned to a single wireless telephone advantageously requires no changes to the air interface or messaging protocol between a Mobile Switching Center and the wireless telephone. The second line is provisioned in the HLR. When the wireless telephone registers with a VLR, the HLR inserts the second billing number. When making a call, the user flags that the second line or number is to be billed by adding a predefined set of digits or characters to the called telephone number. The system recognizes the digits and creates appropriate billing records for the second number. When a call is received on the second billing number or line, the system recognizes that the call is destined for the second billing number, and adds the predefined flag digits to the Calling Party Number to be displayed.

Abstract: A system, and methods for billing clients of services providers are presented. Calls to the services providers are received at a prepaid calling center where the clients are prompted to provide an identification number. The identification number is then used to retrieve a record from a database which includes the client's debit account information as well as a menu of services available from a services provider, and the services provider's telephone number. After retrieving the foregoing information, the prepaid calling center completes a telephone call between the client and the services provider. The prepaid calling centers then debits the prepaid account at a prescribed billing rate until the telephone call is terminated.