Abstract: Temporary digital data received for storage in non-volatile memory are encoded using a key stored in volatile memory. The encoded digital data are then stored in the non-volatile memory. As long as there has been no interruption of supply of power to the volatile memory, the key is available enabling decoding of the encoded digital data stored in the non-volatile memory. Upon interruption of supply of power to the volatile memory the key is erased. Absent the key, access to the encoded digital data stored in the non-volatile memory is prevented.

Abstract: Disclosed is a method of improving electronic security by establishing a path between a user and a secure transaction appliance. The secure transaction appliance receiving information destined for the user which includes a tagged portion, said tagged portion triggering the secure transaction appliance to forward the information to the computer from which the request was issued, and to seeking an electronic signature to verify the content or transaction by transmitting a watermark, tagged portion of the content, or similar electronic content. The secure trusted path providing the user with the tagged portion incorporating additional elements such as a watermark, or in some embodiments only the additional elements, upon a personalized security device associated with the user making interception or manipulation more complex and difficult.

Abstract: A method of providing new functionality to an electronic product is provided. The new functionality for the electronic product being installed via a new firmware load from a memory card. The new firmware load being released to the electronic product upon the provision of an authentication by the user of the electronic product that matches the authentification credentials stored within the memory card. In a further embodiment of the invention the authentication further supports the transfer of additional content relating to the authenticated user thereby providing the electronic device with a “personality” determined by the user. In another embodiment of the invention the new firmware load is “personalized” to the memory card such that it cannot be illegally duplicated or copied thereby allowing vendors to provide via the Internet new functionalities for electronic products on a procurement basis.

Abstract: Electronic transactions employing prior art approaches of digital certificates and authentification are subject to attacks resulting in fraudulent transactions and abuse of identity information. Disclosed is a method of improving electronic security by establishing a secure trusted path between a user and an institution seeking an electronic signature to verify a transaction before any request for signature and completing electronic transaction activities occurs. The secure trusted path providing the user with a predetermined portion of the request from the institution for a signature upon a personalized device that cannot be intercepted or manipulated by malware to verify that the request as displayed upon the user's primary computing device is valid.

Abstract: A set of commands is provided to a system for execution in order to modify a security related aspect of the system. The system executes the set of commands absent an intervening command being executed.

Abstract: A security protocol for use by computing devices communicating over an unsecured network is described. The security protocol makes use of secure data provided to a peripheral memory device from a server via a secure connection. When the peripheral memory device is coupled to a computing device that attempts to establish a secure connection to the server, the secure data is used to verify that the server is authentic. Similarly, the secure data assists the server in verifying that the request to access the server is not being made by a malicious third party.

Abstract: A method of secure communication involves determining that a remote system is trusted prior to authorizing secure communication therewith. A removable security device is coupled with a first system. When the first system communicates with a remote system securely, the remote system is evaluated to ensure that it is a trusted remote system prior to secure communication therewith being allowed.

Abstract: A method of providing authorization, access rights, is provided wherein authentification/authorization for provision of a service is established between the system intended to provide the service and the user granting/limiting the access rights to the service being provided. Accordingly the request for providing a service by a system is communicated to a converged authentication device, typically a wireless device such as a cellular telephone or PDA, wherein authorization of the request is granted/denied. The converged authentification device thereby allowing authorization of the request to be given only by the owner of the access rights.

Abstract: A method of secure communication involves determining that a remote system is trusted prior to authorizing secure communication therewith. A removable security device is coupled with a first system. When the first system communicates with a remote system securely, the remote system is evaluated to ensure that it is a trusted remote system prior to secure communication therewith being allowed.

Abstract: A method and system for printing a document is disclosed. Accordingly, a secure portable storage medium is provided in electrical communication with the first workstation and electrically coupled thereto. A document in electronic form is then provided at the first workstation for printing thereof. The document is stored within a secure portable storage medium in communication with the first workstation, the secure portable storage medium requiring a user authorization event prior to supporting at least one of retrieving data therefrom and storing data therein. The secure portable storage medium is then coupled with a second station including a printer, the secure portable storage medium in electrical communication with the second station. The document is then retrieved from the secure portable storage medium and provided to the printer where it is printed.