Abstract: Methods and apparatus are provided for defending against telephone-based robotic attacks. An interactive voice response method is disclosed, comprising the steps of obtaining a script to present to a caller, the script including at least one menu option having at least one personal code; generating a random number for the personal code; and presenting the at least one menu option with the generated random number to the caller. The step of generating a random number for the personal code is optionally responsive to receipt of the call. The method is optionally performed only if one or more predefined criteria defining an attack are satisfied. The disclosed IVR system can optionally monitor the caller response to determine whether the caller enters the generated random number.

Abstract: A testing device and a method for verifying the charge invoicing for a communications device according to time unit intervals is provided. A testing device, which can simulate at least one calling analog terminal and at least one called terminal, is connected to a network node that generates time pulses. At least one predetermined test communications connection is set up and terminated over at least the one network node. Further, the time interval between the beginning of the test communications connection and the generation of a first time pulse is determined and verified to ascertain whether the determined time interval is located within a first predetermined time domain. During the existing test communications connection, time unit intervals of successive time pulses are measured and compared with a predetermined time interval. A further method involving receipt of additional time pulse(s) after the termination of the test communications connection is also provided.

Abstract: A credit facility for controlling financial transactions is arranged with the ability of users to establish self-imposed limits on a category by category basis. The processing system provides messages and other information to the user, both on-demand and at the point of sale, based upon the category of the transaction and the limit set for that category. In one embodiment, both the user and, if desired, third parties, can obtain or be notified, of account balances on a category by category basis. Also, the main user can assign category limits, or prohibitions, on subusers of the same account. In one embodiment, information pertaining to a specific transaction is communicated to a third party.

Abstract: A method and system to conduct financial transactions over a communication network is provided. Data associated with a mobile communication device user is received and stored, and a user mobile airtime account is allocated to the user. A purchase request is received from the user via a mobile communication device, the purchase request being for a purchase from a merchant for a purchase amount. The communication network provides the user access to the network to make the purchase request without debiting a financial account of the user or the user mobile airtime account for the access to the communication network. A payment service provider now automatically debits the financial account of the user with the purchase amount, automatically allocates a service fee which is associated with the purchase amount to the mobile service provider and credits an account of the mobile service provider with the service fee.

Abstract: A content distribution system is described. The content distribution system includes a show account database and a plurality of credit cards stored in the show account database. The content distribution system also has a linking module associating a viewer entering the call-in number with a credit card number in the show account database. The system has a charge module that charges a credit card account corresponding to the credit card number associated with a viewer entering the call-in number. The system also has an interactive recognition system that provides a qualifying question for the viewer to answer before a call of the viewer is connected to a studio.

Abstract: Disclosed is a digital audio device that includes a communications port to communicatively connect the device to a server. The device also includes a unique identifier to identify the device. The device also includes a controller to allow transfer of digital audio files from the server. The digital audio files contain interleaved data selected by the server based on the unique identifier. The device also includes a decoder to decode the interleaved data and a data store to store at least one of the digital audio files and the interleaved data.

Abstract: A method for performing a digital monetary transaction between a payer and payee comprising the steps of receiving a digital-cash value requested to be withdrawn from an account of a payer; generating a digital-cash code that is associated with the requested digital-cash value and communicating the digital-cash code to the payer; receiving the digital-cash value and the digital-cash code from a payee requesting to deposit the amount specified by the digital-cash value; comparing the received digital-cash value and the digital-cash code to confirm an association; and transferring funds of the amount specified by the digital-cash value to the payee. A system including a central digital-cash system and a network interface preferably can preferably operate the method.

Abstract: The invention teaches the verifying a financial transaction by requiring an account holder to verify the transaction when the transaction is tagged for verification. It is emphasized that this abstract is provided to comply with the rules requiring an abstract that will allow a searcher or other reader to quickly ascertain the subject matter of the technical disclosure. It is submitted with the understanding that it will not be used to interpret or limit the scope or meaning of the claims. 37 CFR 1.72(b).

Abstract: A download processor for secure downloading of a digital product file when ordered by a user. The order includes a file identifier related to the file and an order identifier related to the order. The download processor performs security checks related to the file, the order, and the user. The file identifier and order identifier are verified based upon information related to the file and the order, and information related to the user is also verified. Based upon the verifications, the download processor selectively permits or denies download of the file to a user machine.

Abstract: The invention relates to a secure wireless authorization system by which a user can employ a wireless device to authorize a request that is initiated by a remote third party and transmitted to the user by an authorization server. The system includes the authorization server that is linked to the third party by way of a communications connection and a wireless device that is adapted to securely store an encryption scheme and create a secure authorization from the user in response to the third party request and has the ability to establish a secure wireless connection over which the secure authorization is transmitted from the user's wireless device to the authorization server. Pre-authorization, real-time authorization and post-authorization methods are disclosed by which user authorized transactions can be completed by way of the authorization system of this invention.

Abstract: Electronic means of payment require specific procedures concerning the use thereof as well as set security features. Disclosed is a means of payment allowing the user to add individual security features, comprising the use of specific devices that are available to the user, the purchasing procedure, and additional general conditions pertaining to purchasing goods and services. The electronic means of payment can combine existing payment systems by making the payment systems selectable and allowing individual security features to be adjusted. The popular credit card can become far more secure when purchasing goods and services by combining the credit card with devices providing increased security, for a mobile phone, and adequate general conditions. The user of the means of payment can make payments in an individual manner according to the individual merchandise or service that he/she would like to purchase.

Abstract: A modem and secure communications method for the modem is disclosed in which the modem is capable of storing identifying indicia unique to the modem. The identifying indicia may include graphics data such as an image of a credit card, a signature, and/or an account holder to assist in user authentication. Software stored in the modem enables transmission of the identifying indicia to a communication line. Additional embodiments and variations are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present invention is to provide a cellular phone capable of detecting counterfeit currency or lighting comprising a counterfeit currency detection bulb, a lamp and a keypad, wherein the keypad includes a first dual key in association with the counterfeit currency detection bulb, a second dual key in association with the lamp and a plurality of third keys, such that in response to pressing the first dual key or the second dual key, the cellular phone activates the counterfeit currency detection bulb for detecting counterfeit currency or activates the lamp for lighting respectively.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method and apparatus for obtaining information from a remote database via a telephone network using an automated interactive system. Such information may include, for example, credit history information, address/telephone number information, and book availability information. The system includes a an automated call handler for receiving calls from the telephone, for receiving a request for information, for accessing the requested information, and for providing the requested information in accordance with the request, an audio controller providing outgoing audio messages from the call handler to the telephone, and a gateway coupled to the call handler and having a searchable database that may be accessed by the call handler. A user calls into the system and interactively with the system enters information via the telephone keypad using plurality of two-character responses.

Abstract: A system for conducting a financial transaction over a payment network is disclosed, which system includes a micropayment system interfaced with the payment network for allowing identification of the transaction as a micropayment transaction and allowing, at the option of the cardholder, repudiation of the micropayment transaction automatically by crediting the cardholder's account the amount of the micropayment transaction.

Abstract: An apparatus including a memory device for storing a limitation or restriction on an account use received via the Internet and/or World Wide Web and a processing device for determining whether a transaction on the account or a use of a wireless or cellular communication device is authorized, allowed, or disallowed. An apparatus including a processing device for processing information regarding a banking transaction or use of a wireless or cellular communication device and generating a signal containing information regarding the transaction or device use and a transmitter for transmitting the signal to a communication device. An apparatus including a processing device for processing transaction information and generating a signal containing transaction information, and a transmitter for transmitting the signal to a communication device via the Internet and/or World Wide Web independently of transaction processing by a central transaction processing computer.

Abstract: A portable card reader 22 reads data from a credit card 20 issued by an account settlement institution, transmits the data for the card and the data for a service charge to the account settlement institution. When the account settlement institution receives from the portable card reader 22 the data for the credit card 20 and the data for the service charge, the account settlement institution issues a credit inquiry for the consumer based on the data received for the credit card and predetermined data for determining the validity of an account settlement card, and settles the service charge based on the result of the credit inquiry obtained by the credit inquiry and the service charge data that is received. Upon receiving the result of the credit inquiry, the portable card reader 22 issues a receipt in accordance with the result of the credit inquiry and the service charge data.

Abstract: A tele/datacommunications network has a service node (TSN) (30) which facilitates payment/transfer from a customer account of a customer financial institution (80) to a merchant account of a merchant financial institution (90). The TSN (30) acquires a merchant identifier and transaction amount from a customer mobile station (60). The TSN (30) sends a transaction verification request message to both the customer mobile station (60) and the merchant terminal (70). Upon receipt of transaction verification, the TSN (30) requests transfer of the transaction amount from the customer account to the merchant account.

Abstract: Purpose: To provide a laundry system with improved customer services by utilizing portable information terminals having a radiocommunication function such as mobile phones and PHS. Constitution: Upon completion of washing or drying in a laundry machine 102, data for notifying the user of the completion of the treatment are transmitted to the user's mobile phone 100. In addition, when a prescribed time, for example, 10 minutes, elapses after washing or drying finished, a request for permission to unload the laundry is transmitted to the user's mobile phone 100 so as to ask the user whether the clothes can be taken out from the laundry machine 102 or not. The system charges the user when a prohibition response is sent back or there is no response to the request for permission to unload the laundry.

Abstract: The mobile station includes a system for using open channel time not needed during access to the wireless web. The mobile station monitors the use of the channel, and determines when the user is no longer transmitting or receiving information. Until the current network session terminates, the mobile station may operate in the background to either send or receive information with the network. Any action taken by the user would take priority over the background operations.

Abstract: A vending machine, meter or gaming machine crediting method and a device for implementing the method is disclosed. A creditable machine such as a vending machine, gaming machine or payment meter such as a parking meter generally requires the deposition of cash or the use of a magnetic or electronic payment card in order to be enabled. The use of cash or card readers implies security and other problems. The payment system of the present invention provides the creditable machine with a telephone interface device able to telecommunicate with a remote pay center by wire or preferably wireless telephony. To enable the creditable machine, a user communicates data to the pay center by means of a mobile cell phone or other wireless communicator. The pay center is able to check a user's account and other transaction details and issue instruction to the creditable machine to enable the requested transaction.

Abstract: A method of universal communication, comprising: (1) assigning user phone numbers each representing a user; (2) providing user verification and user digital signature service; (3) providing a handheld personal communication device for user verification and digital signature; (4) dynamic binding of a user phone number to a physical phone number by a database. A universal communication system comprises a handheld personal communication device as the controller for each user, a database system as the intelligent center, and communication adaptors. As a result of the separation of the user phone number from the physical phone number and the related verification and digital signature service, a common interface is provided for various physical communication systems. This allows the various physical communication systems to develop independently and at the same time work together to meet the ever increasing communication demand.

Abstract: System and method for validating a call within a telecommunications network that is vendor-independent. The system and method include a messaging facility, a validation database, and a validation facility. The messaging facility is connected to the telecommunications network, and configured to message to and receive messages from a telecommunication device (e.g., router, IRVU, etc.) related to the call being placed within the telecommunications network and to receive a validation request related to the call from said telecommunications device, the validation request being in a first format. The validation database is configured to maintain data relating to validating authorities (e.g., CYBERCASH, CYBERSOURCE, etc.) and the validating authorities' messaging format requirements (e.g., request content, protocol, format, etc.).

Abstract: A method for conducting a financial transaction corresponding to a good or service includes providing a plurality of first credit or debit devices; associating a universal identifier with each of the first credit or debit devices; associating one of the first credit or debit devices with a plurality of second credit or debit cards; employing the one of the first credit or debit devices to initiate the financial transaction; selecting one of the second credit or debit cards based upon the unique identifier and the good or service; and employing the selected one of the second credit or debit cards to conclude the financial transaction.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention comprises receiving an indication of a first person; associating the first person with an account; receiving an indication of a second person; associating the second person with the account; receiving a request to authorize a transaction between the second person and a third party; determining whether the first person desires to communicate with the second person; and enabling communication between the first person and the second person if the first person desires to communicate with the second person.

Abstract: A method in which two terminals operated on a data transmission network store at least one electronic credit. With the aid of the credits, charge metering is performed. The electronic credits are transmitted with credit messages to control units, which check the validity of the credits and, depending on the result of the check, clear network resources.

Abstract: A system and method for accepting customer calls for product related services and directing these calls to an appropriate customer care center. The system contains a customer support network and a customer transaction database for storing a plurality of product information and vendor/customer data. A transaction processor is arranged to process calls routed through the network and determine the appropriate call center for a particular customer from the entry of a customer personal identification number provided to the customer. The number accompanies a telephone access number. Both numbers may be imprinted on a support card.

Abstract: A telephone accessory communications device suitable for the delivery of DTMF tones over a standard telephone line, which has a card reader, microprocessor and telephone signaling generator that produces the DTMF tones corresponding to data encoded on the strip of a card. A memory device may also be included that stores information regarding the location of the telephone accessory communications device, and one or more telephone numbers used to access desired services. A standard telephone set can be connected to the telephone accessory communications device. The device can be programmed by a computer via a cable connector or a magnetic programming card.

Abstract: A transaction security apparatus and method including an input device for inputting transaction data, a processing device for processing the transaction data and for generating a first signal corresponding to the transaction, and a transmitter for transmitting the first signal over a communication network directly to a communication device associated with an individual account holder. The communication device provides notification to the individual account holder of the transaction.

Abstract: A vending machine, meter or gaming machine crediting method and a device for implementing the method is disclosed. A creditable machine such a as vending machine, gaming machine or payment meter such as a parking meter generally require the deposition of cash or the use of a magnetic or electronic payment card in order to be enabled. The use of cash or card readers implies security and other problems. The payment system of the present invention provides the creditable machine with a telephone interface device (4) able to telecommunicate with a remote pay center (3) by wire or preferably wireless telephony. To enable the creditable machine (2) a user communicates data to the pay centre by means of a mobile cell phone (1) or other wireless communicator. The pay center is able to check a user's account and other transaction details and issue instructions to the creditable machine to enable the requested transaction.

Abstract: The invention relates to an arrangement for acquisition of services via a telephone set. The arrangement comprises a communication element which connects the calling service purchaser to a service provider station with associated computer equipment. The arrangement contains a reader unit which operates in conjunction with an identity element for communicating with the computer equipment. The identity element is provided with information for identifying the purchaser. The identity element is preferably a smart card and the communication element comprises a reader unit which, together with software, can handle smart cards. The arrangement has a built-in keyboard for feeding in data.

Abstract: This invention is an apparatus and method to facilitate the repetitive communication of messages between parties by placing a single message in machine readable data upon a card, or substrate, so that all persons using that card are fully aware of the data to be transmitted. Repetition is achieved by communicating a fixed message by use of the card, rather than in allowing variation of the disclosed message, and in directions or additional information on the card that indicates its use and purposes. Data on the card may be communicated by a variety of devices including standard retail point of sale readers for credit cards, and by telephone keypads or standard keyboards on computers. The method comprises the distribution and communication of the message cards, and permits flexibility in the responses of those receiving the messages.

Abstract: A public terminal links to an analog telephone network (STN) and to a digital network (ISDN), and includes a central unit (12) furnished with peripherals (14, 16, 18) providing a human/machine interface, an algorithm for navigating around the computer network, and a telecommunications payment card reader (22) that is linked to telephony circuits for establishing a telephone link with a server center as a function of available credit and for maintaining the telephone link. The terminal is linked to the digital network by a relay (38) controlled by the central unit (12) in such a way as to establish a communication between the central unit and the digital network so long as the analog telephone link with the server center is maintained.

Abstract: An IC card terminal device reads functions stored in an IC card inserted therein, and displays them on its screen. The card user selects that one of the functions, which they intend to execute. The IC card terminal device determines whether or not it has an application corresponding to the selected function. If the terminal device does not have the application, it reads information stored in the IC card and related to the function. On the basis of the information, the terminal device is connected to a host apparatus as a service provider, thereby downloading a necessary application therefrom. After that, the downloaded application corresponding to the selected function is executed.

Abstract: A vending machine for dispensing telecommunications access is disclosed. A customer interested in using the telecommunications access makes a payment into the payment processing unit which forwards the payment information to the central control unit. The central control unit reports the transaction information to a central computer system via its modem connected to a telecommunication channel. Access to the same telecommunication channel or another channel can be made available to the customer via a switchable telecommunications access circuit which is also controlled by the central control unit. The customer connects to the telecommunications channel via the telecommunications access connector. The central control unit provides information on the progress of the vending transaction to the customer via the user interface. The central control unit determines when the transaction is completed by sensing the cessation of usage via the usage detection circuit or via customer action at the user interface.

Abstract: One embodiment of the present invention comprises receiving an indication of a first person; associating the first person with an account; receiving an indication of a second person; associating the second person with the account; receiving a request to authorize a transaction between the second person and a third party; determining whether the first person desires to communicate with the second person; and enabling communication between the first person and the second person if the first person desires to communicate with the second person.

Abstract: Coordination of information at the network-based level between call centers connectable over a telecommunications network, such as the telephone network, and a packet network, such as the Internet, creates improved integration of and bonding between a customer's interaction with a Web site and with a call center. Information about the customer and the customer's Web interaction are delivered to the call center agent along with the call, leading to increased productivity and efficiency in call handling as well as improved call routing. Calls may be routed to existing call centers based upon information from the Web experience, and information from the user's Web interaction is shared with the call center. Web interaction information is passed to existing call centers using known call center external control methods, such as DNIS signaling.

Abstract: The invention concerns a method and a system enabling a telecommunication operator (12) to identify rapidly and to debit in complete security the accounts of subscribers of a telephone network.

Abstract: A generic translator (10) is provided for processing service requests sent by a digit collection client (16). Requests include billing validation (11), call routing (19), call screening (17), account code validation (15) or other services. These requests are processed by the generic translator (10) and successful results are sent back to the digit collection client (16) or a trunk selection process (20). The generic translator (10) can access an external entity (18) to assist in digit translation (13).

Abstract: A method and system automatically activates a mobile station in a wireless communications network. The system includes an over the air activation function (OTAF) processor in the network that initiates an activation process in response to receiving a registration message from a mobile switching center serving the mobile station requesting the activation. Each mobile station has a unit of information stored into it at the time of its manufacture to enable it to request over the air activation. That unit of information is either the network routing address of the OTAF processor, or alternately, it is a value that is translatable into that address, either an OTAF ID number that is the same value for every mobile station or it is a sequentially serialized dummy value for the mobile identification number (a dummy MIN). When the mobile station is turned on for the first time in the network, it requests activation over the air by transmitting to the local mobile switching center a registration order.

Abstract: A telephone for transferring electronic money between money cards has on the top thereof two card inlets of two internal card reader/writers, a display window, a ten-key set used to dial a telephone number or enter an amount of electronic money transaction, telephone function keys, and mode selection keys. It can be operated to transfer electronic money between two money cards inserted in the card inlets, or between a money card inserted in one of the card inlets and another money card linked through the telephone line, thereby enabling person-to-person, person-to-bank, and person-to-retailer transactions based on electronic money.

Abstract: This interactive television receiver console comprises a television receiver connected by a televised program reception channel to a televised program distributor implementing transactional applications. It further comprises an all-purpose interface pack with data transmission means connected to the televised program distributor by a data transmission channel, with data reception means connected to the televised program distributor by a data reception channel and with image overlay means connected to the television receiver and working on the image presented to the screen of this receiver, a chip card reader, a keyboard enabling action by an operator, and a chip card that gets plugged into the chip card reader and is customized for at least one transaction, the running of which it manages. Through its all-purpose character which is customized by means of the chip card, this card has a wide range of uses and is, at the same time, highly selective.

Abstract: A system and method for accepting customer calls for product related services and directing these calls to an appropriate customer service center. The system contains a customer service network and a customer transaction database for storing a plurality of product information and vendor/customer data. A transaction processor is arranged to process calls received through the network and to route the calls to an appropriate care center for a particular customer in accordance with data associated with a customer-entered personal identification number provided to the customer at the time of purchase. The services are provided on the basis of a pre-paid account, which is debited after a service agent answers the customer call based on signaling generated at the call center.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling credit card use. As described in one aspect of the disclosure, a method is disclosed for facilitating communication between a first person (e.g., an account holder) and a second person (e.g., a user) so that the first person may authorize a transaction between the second person and a third party (e.g., a merchant). The method comprises the steps of linking the first and second persons to a financial account that is used for the transaction, receiving data identifying the financial account and the third party from the third party, inquiring whether the first person desires to communicate with the second person based on the data identifying the financial account, and enabling communication between the first and second persons based on a response to the inquiry from the first person and the data identifying the third party.

Abstract: A communication system providing telephony communication across combined circuit switched and packet switched networks, such as a telephone network and the Internet, which are connectable to terminals, such as telephones and computers, for selective communication therebetween. The communication system provides an architecture and methodology for implementing initiation of establishment of a communication path between called and called terminals from a telephone terminal. The architecture and methodology facilitates communication across carriers or service providers, settlements between carriers and service providers, usage accounting across carriers and service providers, and usage allocation among carriers or service providers.

Abstract: The invention relates to methods and systems for connecting a caller to a content provider who provides a service to the caller over the telephone system. In accordance with the invention, a caller establishes a prepaid account with an intermediary, termed a transaction processor. When the caller wishes to access a content provider, the caller makes a telephone call to the transaction processor providing access to a plurality of content providers via a common access number. The caller identifies his prepaid account and the desired content provider. The transaction processor connects the caller to the content provider, monitors the connection between the caller and the content provider, and debits the caller's prepaid account according to the service provided by the content provider.

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: An apparatus for vending public multimedia services has a telephone, a multimedia terminal, a payment receiver for receiving an authorization to accept charges for enabling use of at least one of the telephone and the multimedia terminal, a file receiver for receiving a file, the file containing a field with cost per unit time for a service and a field with a modifier for the cost per unit time for the service, memory for storing the file, and a usage cost determiner for determining a usage cost based on a time of use of the service and information in the file.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for processing payment transactions using debit card numbers without the requirement of a personal identification number (PIN) is disclosed. A telepay system of the present invention provides an interface between a standard touchtone telephone and at least one debit card network such that real-time bill payment transactions may be effected using a keypad of the telephone. The telepay system includes an interactive voice response unit for prompting a payor to enter an access code, account number, debit card number and payment amount and for informing the user of the status of the transaction. Real-time processing of transactions is provided through use of debit card networks, rather than the Automated Clearing House. The telepay system is also capable of performing settlement functions and processing inquiries by payees of the system regarding previously processed transactions.

Abstract: Method and apparatus for processing payment transactions using debit card numbers without the requirement of a personal identification number (PIN) is disclosed. A telepay system of the present invention provides an interface between a standard touchtone telephone and at least one debit card network such that real-time bill payment transactions may be effected using a keypad of the telephone. The telepay system includes an interactive voice response unit for prompting a payor to enter an access code, account number, debit card number and payment amount and for informing the user of the status of the transaction. Real-time processing of transactions is provided through use of debit card networks, rather than the Automated Clearing House. The telepay system is also capable of performing settlement functions and processing inquiries by payees of the system regarding previously processed transactions.