Abstract: A method of billing a communication session between a user and a value-added service. A request is received from a user for a communication session, such as a circuit-switched call, a computer-network telephony call or a multimedia session, between the user and a value-added service. Information associated with a credit account is requested before the user is connected to the value-added service. The information associated with the credit account, such as credit card information, debit card information or checking account information, is received in real time. Credit account information, which includes the received information associated with the credit account and a predetermined amount that is to be charged to the credit account, is communicated to a payment authorization database, which can be located locally or remotely.

Abstract: A guard for preventing the vandalism of the vault and vault door of a pay telephone, comprising a plurality of rigid segments. Each rigid segment includes an attachment end and a free end, defining a perpendicular distance therebetween. Each of the rigid segments is attached at its attachment end to the lower housing of the pay telephone immediately adjacent and substantially surrounding the vault door. In the preferred embodiment, the plurality of rigid segments comprise one integral rigid member. The guard changes the leverage point of the pry bar of a vandal so as to prohibit such vandal from forceably removing the vault door. The leverage point is changed from proximate the vault door to the free end of a rigid segment or integral rigid member.

Abstract: A fraud detection system receives data relating to telecommunications activity. Event generators generate events from the received data, with each event having a weight corresponding to an increased or decreased likelihood of fraud. The aggregated events for a subject (a subscriber or an account) determine a score for the subject, which is used to prioritize the subject in an investigation queue. Human analysts are assigned to open investigations on the investigation queue according to the priority of subjects. In this manner, investigation resources can be applied more effectively to high-risk subscribers and events.

Abstract: A mechanism for rejecting specific types of calls in a network including collect calls and telemarketing calls. Calls are tagged to indicate the type of call, this tag being recognizable at the terminating end of the network allowing automatic rejection of the call on a subscription basis. In one embodiment, an OLI parameter is utilized to tag the call. In another embodiment, another parameter such as Optional Forward Call Indicator is utilized. An end office serving the subscriber may automatically reject the call, or may pass on the call to a PBX serving multiple subscribers. The PBX may automatically reject all calls of a particular type, or may allow calls depending on the subscriber being called.

Abstract: A telecommunications system, service control point and method are described that can pre-screen a telephone call to help prevent telephone toll fraud. More specifically, the telecommunications system includes a service control point capable of receiving information about a telephone call originated by a calling party, and further capable of determining whether the telephone call has a fraudulent attribute. If the telephone call has a fraudulent attribute, then the calling party is informed that there is a possibility of telephone toll fraud occurring if the telephone call is connected to a called party. And, if the telephone call does not have a fraudulent attribute, then the telephone call is automatically connected to the called party.

Abstract: A system and method for preventing fraud. The method typically includes identifying one or more fraud indicators and examining past transactions and/or a pending transaction associated with the account for the presence of the fraud indicators. The method also includes, by said examining, detecting at least one of the fraud indicators. The method also includes calculating a cumulative fraud risk level associated with the pending transaction based on the detected fraud indicators. The method may also include determining whether the cumulative fraud risk level meets or exceeds a predetermined threshold, and if the cumulative fraud risk level meets or exceeds the predetermined threshold, verifying the request for the transaction with an owner of the account. The method may further include assigning a weighted value to each of the fraud indicators. The account is typically a telephone calling account, such as a calling card account.

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: A prepaid service assurance system provides service assurance for a prepaid telecommunication system by generating a call to the prepaid telecommunication system. In response to the call, the prepaid service assurance system then receives an actual response from the prepaid telecommunication system and automatically compares the actual response with an expected response for the prepaid telecommunication system. In other embodiments, the prepaid service assurance system determines whether a modification action is needed based on the comparison of the actual response and the expected response. If the modification action is needed, the prepaid service assurance system identifies the modification action based on the determination that the modification is needed. Once the modification action is identified, the prepaid service assurance system transmits an instruction to provide the modification action for the prepaid telecommunication system.

Abstract: The losses sustained by telecommunications service providers attributable to unpaid, long-duration calls are reduced if such calls are carefully monitored. Upon the determination that a call might be fraudulent, the circuits carrying the call through a network or switching system comprising the network are automatically identified. The determination that a call might be fraudulent is forwarded to an administrator and, using information on the circuits carrying the call, the administrator can take affirmative steps to either tear down the call or further investigate whether the call is fraudulent.

Abstract: Terminating number screening to block portable billing products from terminating to a designated high fraud domestic or international terminating numbers. When a call is placed and it is billed to a portable billing product, the dialed digits of the terminating number is verified against the terminating number screening database. If the sequence of dialed digits is found in the terminating number screening database, the call is denied. The caller is then informed that they cannot place a call to this destination and asked if there is another terminating number they wish to call. If the sequence of dialed digits is not found in the terminating number screening database, the call is allowed to process without interruption. The purpose of this functionality is to protect the Operator Service network from repeated fraudulent calling to individual telephone line numbers either international or domestic.

Abstract: A call intercept process (CIP) for calling card calls originating from an international country and terminating to high fraud domestic USA, and Canada locations. When a call is placed via a calling card and terminates to a high fraud domestic location, the call is optionally screened against a database which keys on international originating country access numbers. Whether this screening implemented, the call is routed to a first level operator in order to verify the billing account information of the caller as an authorized user. This verification is based on customer and business name, address, zip code, and phone number. If the caller passes verification, a CIP process automatically overrides the calling card from any future Intercepts. If caller fails account verification, the a CIP process automatically places the card in a ‘LOCKED STATUS MODE’ which mode indicates that any additional calls based on that card be intercepted regardless of termination.

Abstract: An improved workstation for use in a telecommunications fraud detection system is disclosed. The workstation provides a fraud analyst with streamlined access to case records defining one or more subcases or fraud analyses associated with specified calling card numbers. Additionally, the workstation is preferably interconnected to a customer information database and may display a variety of detailed customer information on monitor together with associated case or subcase information. Through the use of assorted tools provided by the workstation, a fraud analyst may efficiently study instances of possible telecommunications fraud on a case-by-case basis.

Abstract: An intelligent vending system such as a pay telephone provides local/remote diagnostics, fraud prevention, capability of facilitating local coin overtime operation, complete cash box accounting, and detailed reporting. Information regarding each transaction is recorded and is useful in verification, by way of example. The system includes a delta-sigma driver for reducing circuit complexity and improving circuit reliability, and a one-wire, high speed communication controller which facilitates high speed downloading and uploading of data, records, and operating program code. Battery management techniques, memory management, and coin detection circuits add to the system's capabilities and reliability. Firmware security techniques and operating system formats also promote product firmware security and configuration control.

Abstract: An electronic coin validator for connection to a payphone chassis is described. The validator includes a coin passageway having at least one coin sensor, power circuitry for connection to payphone chassis power lines and connected to the coin sensor, a validator line balance circuit connected to the power circuitry, at least one coin signal line for connection to the payphone chassis, at least one coin value buffer, and a control means. The control means processes signals from the sensor to validate coins, adjusts the count in the coin value buffer when a coin is validated, and readjusts the count when corresponding coin credit signals are generated for transmission. The validator line balance circuit has an output for connection to the payphone chassis, and equalizes the loading on the telephone lines to minimize impedance fluctuations.

Abstract: A prepaid service assurance system provides service assurance for a prepaid telecommunication system by generating a call to the prepaid telecommunication system. In response to the call, the prepaid service assurance system then receives an actual response from the prepaid telecommunication system and automatically compares the actual response with an expected response for the prepaid telecommunication system. In other embodiments, the prepaid service assurance system determines whether a modification action is needed based on the comparison of the actual response and the expected response. If the modification action is needed, the prepaid service assurance system identifies the modification action based on the determination that the modification is needed. Once the modification action is identified, the prepaid service assurance system transmits an instruction to provide the modification action for the prepaid telecommunication system.

Abstract: A call intercept process (CIP) for calling card calls originating from an international country and terminating at an international high fraud country. When a call is placed via a calling card and terminates to a high fraud terminating location, the call is first screened against a database to determine if the termination is in fact, a high fraud country. Regardless of whether this screening is implemented, the call is routed to a first level operator in order to verify the billing account information of the caller as an authorized user. This verification is based on customer and business name, address, zip code, and phone number. If the caller passes verification, a CIP process automatically overrides the calling card from any future Intercepts. If caller fails account verification, the a CIP process automatically places the card in a ‘LOCKED STATUS MODE’ which mode indicates that any additional calls based on that card be intercepted regardless of termination.

Abstract: A system for collecting and processing SS7 message signaling units (MSUs) includes a network interface for copying MSUs from an SS7 signaling link or a TCP/IP signaling link. A call detail record generator communicates with the link interface to receive the copied MSUs and parse the MSUs to extract desired parameters from the MSUs. An application interface kit received commands from an application to control the flow of MSU parameters to the application in real time.

Abstract: This invention is a guard for preventing the vandalism of the keypad of a telephone. If the telephone is a pay telephone, the invention further prevents, thus preventing entry into the telephone money box from the upper housing area. The telephone guard, composed of an upper housing guard and a keypad guard, is secured by high strength visible fasteners to the upper housing of a pay telephone. The upper housing guard and keypad guard are mated tightly to prevent vandals from prying off the keypad guard. The thickness of the keypad guard is greater than the throw length of the push buttons of the keypad. Thus, the force of a blow to the keypad will be absorbed by the front of the guard rather than the push buttons.

Abstract: An improved system for detecting and preventing telecommunications fraud prior to call connection, in which attempted calls are screened for fraud at the point of calling card validation in the SCP. The SCP accesses a database holding a variety of fraud decision nodes that may be interrelated and grouped together to cooperatively define fraud screening trees against which attempted calls may be tested. A fraud screening tree ultimately produces a fraud prediction based on a variety of information concerning the attempted call. The present invention therefore facilitates fraud screening with greater granularity and customization.

Abstract: An intelligent pay telephone provides local/remote diagnostics, fraudulent call prevention, capability of facilitating local coin overtime operation, complete cash box accounting, and call detail reporting. Information regarding each call placed from the telephone is recorded and is useful in verifying operator service provider communications, long distance bills, local measured usage charges, and call volume discounts, by way of example. The intelligent pay telephone includes a delta-sigma voice driver for reducing circuit complexity and improving circuit reliability, and a one-wire, high speed communication controller facilitates high speed downloading and uploading of pay telephone data, records, and operating program code. The pay telephone also includes a low impedance, low power hookswitch for resisting damage from weather, as well as a pin fraud prevention circuit for deterring fraud.

Abstract: A coin retrieval device for a pay phone includes a panel having a shaft with a retrieval lever extending radially therefrom. A guide device is pivotably connected to the panel about two pins on two ends of the guide device. The guide device includes a guide plate and a jam plate pivotably connected to the end plate of the guide plate. A gap is defined between the guide plate and the jam plate for coins passing therethrough via a coin slot defined through the guide plate. One of the two pins has a torsion spring mounted thereto which has two ends respectively connected to the retrieval lever and the guide plate. The guide device can be pivoted relative to the panel by lifting the retrieval lever, and a distal end of the jam plate is pivoted toward the coin slot to prevent coins from being inserted into the coin slot.

Abstract: A shutter plate for a self-locking cover for a telephone paystation coin receptacle includes a coupler for joining a shutter control arm to the shutter plate that deforms when a force having a predetermined magnitude is applied to the control arm. The deformation of the coupler provides an indicator that an attempt to move the shutter plate to expose an aperture in the self-locking cover has occurred. The coupler may be one or more holes in a portion of the shutter control arm that is external of the self-locking cover. The coupler may take the form of a weld that joins the shutter control arm and the shutter plate. Frangible material may also be used to fill openings in the control arm to provide a tamper indicator. The tamper indicator facilitates detection of tamper attempts by visual inspection.

Abstract: A method of billing a telephone call between a caller and a value-added service. A request is received from a caller for a telephone call between the caller and the value-added service. Information associated with a credit account is requested before the caller is connected to the value-added service. The information associated with the credit account, such as credit card information, debit card information or checking account information, is received in real time. Credit account information, which includes the received information associated with the credit account and a predetermined amount that is to be charged to the credit account, is communicated to a payment authorization database, which can be located locally or remotely. Alternatively, the credit account information includes the received information associated with the credit account and a predetermined amount that is to be set aside in the credit account for the telephone call.

Abstract: A pay telephone housing comprises a large capacity vault having a floor, first and second side walls, and a back wall. The vault includes a front opening and a peripheral rim extending at least partly around the front opening and having a rear edge. A removable vault door is provided for covering and uncovering the front opening and includes first and second locking plates which are operable to be extended to a locking position at least partly behind the rear edge of the peripheral rim to prevent the removable vault door from being removed from the vault. A key operated lock assembly is operable for selectively locking the first and second locking plates in the locking position.

Abstract: A coin return assembly having enhanced protection against stuffing or ignition, is disclosed. A flapper member is hingedly attached to the upper portion of the coin return chute such that it is biased against displacement against the flow of coins through the coin chute. The hinge allows movement of the coins from the upper portion of the telephone through to the lower bucket area. The flapper seals substantially the entire coin path thereby preventing the insertion of stuffing material into the coin return chute or the passage of flames therethrough.

Abstract: Apparatus for preventing unauthorized use of a voice dialing system and, particularly, a call forwarding feature associated with the system whereby system users may forward a telephone number respectively associated therewith to a remote location in order to receive phone calls at the remote location, comprises: a database for pre-storing telephone numbers of system users and for pre-storing acoustic models respectively representative of speech associated with each system user, the acoustic models respectively corresponding to the telephone numbers; and a speaker identification module operatively coupled to the database for obtaining and decoding a speech sample from a potential system user during the potential users' attempt to make a telephone call, the speaker identification module comparing the decoded speech sample obtained with the pre-stored acoustic model associated with the telephone number dialed by the potential user; whereby if the decoded speech sample substantially matches the pre-stored ac

Abstract: A system and method for implementing a fully integrated and cooperative telecommunications firewall/scanner that can be deployed either as a standalone device, or over a large-scale distributed client-server architecture is described. In addition to providing enhanced telecommunications firewall and scanner security capabilities, the integrated telecommunications firewall/scanner provides the capability to ensure implementation of a corporate-dictated security structure, and event visibility and report consolidation requirements, across a globally-distributed enterprise, using policy-based enforcement of a Security Policy. In the most basic configuration, the integrated firewall/scanner performs continuous security access monitoring and control functions, keyword and content monitoring and control functions, and remote access authentication, initiating coordinated vulnerability assessments, as well as automatic synchronous adjustments to the Security Policy in response to the vulnerability assessment results.

Abstract: Detecting fraud involving an electronic memory card having a given operating frequency (F0) and used in a telephone set. An excitation signal (si) of variable frequency is applied to the card, and a response pattern (M) produced by the card responsive to a low frequency excitation is recorded. A determination is made that fraud is taking place when the response pattern becomes distorted at an excitation frequency that is lower than the operating frequency (F0) of the card.

Abstract: A method and system for detecting fraud in a telecommunications network matches information on individual calls to a series of rules (18). For each rule r, a threshold Tr is defined, and if the fit of an individual call to that rule is exceeds Tr, an alarm is generated. All call records resulting in alarms are stored within a positive matching file. Likewise, calls which just fail to meet the criteria, within a given tolerance level &THgr;, are stored in a separate negative matching file. The entries in the positive and negative matching files are then checked by skilled operators to determine which in fact represent true fraud. On the basis of those validations, a decision module within the system automatically calculates and implements the necessary changes to the thresholds Tr by means of a feedback loop.

Abstract: In some communication services such as, for example, virtual card calling (VCC), authentification methods are employed to check the access authorization of the caller using the communication service to make possible misuse more difficult. The present invention make such possible misuse even more difficult and undesirable, by instituting a preliminary, cancellable charging which is attributable to the caller should the caller be unable to provide proper authentification of access authorization pursuant to predetermined criteria.

Abstract: Access is granted to a portion of a computing system, such as to a configuration menu of a telephone system. In order to grant access, a password is received from a user. A variable password is also calculated. The variable password varies with time. For example, the variable password varies with a current date and with a time of day stored by the computing system. The password received from the user is compared with the calculated variable password. When the password received from the user is equal to the calculated variable password, access is granted.

Abstract: A telephone calling card (prepaid or postpaid) service system with an intelligent network (IN) for automated call processing has a bailout capability for bailing out a call placed directly to the IN, to an operator for assistance upon the occurrence of predefined contingencies. A service control point (SCP) in the IN interfaces with a switch containing a service switching point (SSP) for switching a call to its destination via the ETSI INAP or ITU INAP protocol. The switch also contains an operator service position system (OSPS), and an originating call processor (OCP) coupled to both the SSP and OSPS. After the occurrence of a bailout condition (resulting from a call being unauthorized as determined by the SCP), the SCP sends a destination routing address to the SSP including a network routing address (NRA) indicating which OSPS to direct the call for eventual operator assistance (via the SSP).

Abstract: Fraud losses in a communication network are substantially reduced by automatically generating fraud management recommendations in response to suspected fraud and by deriving the recommendations as a function of selected attributes of the fraudulent activity. More specifically, a programmable rules engine automatically generates recommendations based on call-by-call fraud scoring so that the recommendations correspond directly to the type and amount of suspected fraudulent activity. Using telecommunications fraud as an example, an automated fraud management system receives call detail records that have been previously scored to identify potentially fraudulent calls. Fraud scoring estimates the probability of fraud for each call based on the learned behavior of an individual subscriber as well as that of fraud perpetrators. Scoring also provides an indication of the contribution of various elements of the call detail record to the fraud score for that call.

Abstract: A coin escrow apparatus for use with a pay telephone includes a housing defining a coin hopper, a coin acceptance chute, and a coin return chute. The apparatus also includes a door mounted within the housing for selective movement between an escrow position for supporting coins in the hopper, an acceptance position for releasing coins from the hopper to the coin acceptance chute, and a return position for releasing coins from the hopper to the coin return chute. The apparatus also includes structures for selectively moving the door between its escrow, acceptance, and return positions. An integrated circuit is provided for unconditionally simulating a relay switch contact normally indicative of successful firing of the escrow coin apparatus to allow the coin escrow apparatus to be used with so-called "smart" telephones without requiring electromechanical components to sense and indicate successful firing of the coin escrow apparatus.

Abstract: A method and system for providing answer supervision in a switched telephone network are described. The method involves monitoring signaling links in a common channel signaling system to track call progress. If a called number is determined to be suspect with respect to providing call answer indications, the system may route calls to monitored facilities which measure the commencement of payload traffic. When payload traffic is detected, a call answer message can be sent through the signaling network to initiate billing, or call release messages may be sent in each direction to cancel the call. Both inter-network and intra-network calls can be monitored to provide answer supervision and ensure that toll calls are properly billed in accordance with actual toll facility usage.

Abstract: Pin fraud of battery reversal pulse metered sophisticated coin telephones is detected, an announcement of the detected fraud made, and the fraud is stopped if the detected fraud continues by the method and apparatus of the invention. By carefully monitoring within the switch office the loop current that is flowing in the 48 volt battery circuit, especially in the more positive terminal portion of the 48 volt battery circuit, loss of current to a fraud ground at a remote coin telephone can be detected. Once a fraud ground is detected, an announcement is made to at least the calling station where the pin fraud was detected, which says in effect "The pay telephone you are using is charging improperly for the service provided. If such improper charging continues the present call will be discontinued." A convenient location in the switch office and an inexpensive component configuration make the addition of this pin fraud detection, announcement and prevention apparatus very cost effective.

Abstract: A coin box unit used in a coin-box apparatus, for example, a coin-box telephone, which includes a base having an oblique plate, an actuating board pivoted to the oblique plate. and a switch hook, wherein the oblique plate has a coin inlet at the top, a through hole in the middle, a coin-return passageway and a coin-receiving passageway at the bottom, the coin-return passageway having an elongated top opening obliquely and downwardly extended to the coin-receiving passageway; the actuating board has a sloping bottom edge, and a rail disposed at the backside along the sloping bottom edge, which defines with the oblique plate and the actuating board a coin guide way extending toward the coin-return passageway and the coin-receiving passageway when the actuating board is closed on the oblique plate; the switch hook is pivoted to the oblique plate and forced to open the actuating board from the oblique plate.

Abstract: An improved structure of a coin collector cover comprises an upper cover, a cover plate, a buckling piece, a positioning plate and a twisted spring. The upper cover is installed with a coin inlet and a slot. The cover plate is located on the plane of the upper cover. A plurality of teeth are installed on the edge thereof, and a twisted spring is arranged between the cover plate and the upper cover. By the elastic force of the twisted spring, the cover plate may be retained to cover the coin inlet. The buckling piece is pivotally installed on the plane of the upper cover. The edge thereof is installed with a plurality of teeth pieces for being engaged with the teeth of the cover plate. A nose portion is disposed at the edge thereof, while the buckling piece is further installed with a block which is combined with a lock. The edge of the positioning plate is formed with a concave portion for receiving the buckling piece so that the positioning plate can be installed on the plane of the upper cover.

Abstract: When a false signal received from a telephone set on a false originating side is detected, a call thereof is immediately disconnected. In reality, the system comprises a detecting portion 5A and a signal unit 4. The detecting portion 5A detects a false signal according to international telecommunication standard ITU-T No. 5 signal system. The signal unit 4 disconnects the call when the detecting portion 5A detects a false signal. The system further comprises a supervising means that supervises a false signal using toll-free service with a credit card system. A supervising unit 5 supervises whether or not a false signal is present. Corresponding to the supervised result of the supervising means, when a false signal is detected, the signal unit 4 immediately disconnects the call. Thus, the performance of the telephone exchange system is improved. In addition, the security of the system is improved.

Abstract: A coin return chute structure adapted to be incorporated in a payphone includes two spaced wall plate and an outer chute member fixed between the two wall plates and defining therein a coin holding space. The coin return chute structure has a front side on which a front opening is formed for access to the coin holding space. The wall plates are each provided with three pivot holes to selectively receive therein a pivot pin for rotatably supporting lids of different sizes on the wall plates for closing the front opening. Cover plates of different sizes selected in accordance with the lid size used may be selectively fixed to the front opening for covering the portion of the opening that is not closed by the lid. An inner chute member is selectively mounted between the two wall plates to bypass the coin holding space by directing the returned coin directly out of the chute structure.

Abstract: An external plug-in module is inserted, or field retrofitted, between a validator and a phone chassis and incorporates circuitry to condition the coin signals generated by the validator. This signal conditioning eliminates the possibility of the chassis being improperly triggered and generating false coin tone signals during periods of interrupted power.

Abstract: A coin receptacle cover for attachment to a coin receptacle box and subsequent use in a pay telephone comprising a panel, connectable to a coin receptacle box, which defines an opening therethrough for admitting coins into the coin receptacle box. The cover also comprises a movable door mounted for linear reciprocating movement between a closed position covering the opening and an open position uncovering the opening. An actuator arm is mounted for pivotal movement and includes a finger which is engageable by a pay telephone for pivoting the actuating arm upon installation of the coin receptacle cover in a pay telephone. Additionally, a pin and slot arrangement between the movable door and the actuator arm is provided for converting pivotal movement of the actuator arm into linear reciprocating movement of the movable door. The coin receptacle cover further comprises a linear track and the movable door has a guide pin slidable within the linear track.

Abstract: Apparatus for identifying wireless subscriber units and for granting or denying access to a subscriber service includes a plurality of wireless subscriber units each for generating a wireless subscriber signal including internal data traits and external signal traits. The internal data traits include an identification code. The plurality of wireless subscriber units also receive a transmitter/receiver signal. A receiver/transmitter is located remote from the wireless subscriber units and receives the wireless subscriber signal and transmits the transmitter/receiver signal. A characterizing device is connected to the receiver/transmitter and generates a plurality of characterizing signals for one of said wireless subscriber units.

Abstract: A lower casing structure of a payphone is disclosed, including an outer casing member fit over the lower portion of the payphone and having threaded rods fixed thereon, a reinforcement plate having holes corresponding to and fit over the threaded rods, a coin container shield having a plate portion which has holes corresponding to and fit over the threaded rods and a flange having securing slots formed thereon and a support plate having holes corresponding to and fit over the threaded rods so as to sandwich the coin container shield and the reinforcement plate between the support plate and the outer casing member. Nuts engage the threaded rods for securing the support plate, as well as the coin container shield and the reinforcement plate, to the outer casing member. The support plate has a locking mechanism arranged thereon, comprising a rotatable member operable by a key to be rotatable between a locked position and an unlocked position.

Abstract: A dispenser for dispensing goods or services is resistant to fraudulent vandalism by use of a hacksaw by having a coin receiver including a coin runway having at least one guide surface to guide a coin along a runway axis. The runway has at least one moveable member located closely adjacent to the guide surface and mounted for movement relative to the guide surface. The moveable member has a moveable surface with a displacement component parallel to the runway axis so that when contacted by a reciprocating hacksaw, the moveable surface moves in the direction of the hacksaw to reduce relative movement between the hacksaw and the surface, thus preventing sawing of the member. In one embodiment, the moveable member is a rotatable member which is mounted so as to have an uppermost surface flush with the guide surface of the runway.

Abstract: An anti-fraud string cutter for a coin telephone instrument having a serpentine coin path. The string cutter is fabricated as a stack of notched, slit, sheet metal plates having alternately off-set flat and wavy teeth which are adapted to snag and cut, between adjacent ones of the plates, any string threaded through said coin path by a fraudulent user. String cutters are advantageously to be mounted adjacent to one of the cusps of the serpentine path and above the coin return hopper.

Abstract: The invention provides a method and apparatus for the prevention of fraudulent toll calls by a user connected to a key telephone system. On recognition of a user request for use of a telephone line to make a call to a destination outside the key system, the forward speech path to the seized telephone line is muted. The string of digits dialed by the user are monitored and evaluated for correspondence to restrictions associated with the user terminal. If restrictions are failed, the call is terminated; otherwise, the forward speech path is unmuted and the call is allowed to proceed in the conventional manner. The invention may also provide an interdigital timer which is set upon reception of each dialed digit whereby if the timer is allowed to reset while the dialed digit string is being monitored, the call is terminated.

Abstract: A linkage couples the coin return door of a coin telephone instrument to a cam mounted in the coin return chute. When the coin return door is opened in the normal manner by a customer to retrieve coins from the coin return hopper, the cam closes a contact of a microswitch that completes a circuit. After a normal coin retrieval the door closes and the switch contact returns to open. Such momentary switch closures are considered normal. However, if foreign matter has been stuffed into the coin return hopper by a fraudulent user, the material will be engaged by a comb at the end of the cam, preventing the coin return door from closing normally. When the door is prevented from closing normally and remains open for more than a few moments, the switch remains actuated, keeping the circuit closed for longer than normal thereby signaling the signaling the telephone company that the phone has been tampered with.

Abstract: A package advantageously to be mounted within the housing of a coin telephone permits the telephone set to exhibit a jack to which a personal computer may be connected without danger of the jack being used for fraudulent purposes by normally maintaining the jack isolated from the central office conductors. A local battery powers a microprocessor which senses when a modem is connected to the jack. The microprocessor controls the connection to the central office conductors which then supply power for the further continuous monitoring of the conductors to determine whether the connection is being used legitimately or whether tones are applied at the jack to simulate the deposit of coins. In addition, the jack is disconnected from the central office conductors during the time that the initial rate test is being performed by the central office.

Abstract: A cash box proximity switch arrangement is provided for public telephones and is mounted in an upper portion of a lower housing of the telephone above the vault area. The switch is contained in a sealed housing which prevents contamination from dirt, moisture and the like. A magnet can be arranged so as to provide a bi-stable magnetic circuit between the floor of the lower phone housing and a cash box lid attached to a cash box which has been installed in the vault area of the telephone housing.