Abstract: A computer-driven information management system selectively matches credit applicants with money lenders through a global communications network. The system includes an applicant data entry device for entering applicant data into the system. The applicant data defines an electronic applicant profile of a credit applicant seeking financing. A model data entry device is provided for entering model data into the system. The model data is established by the lender and defines an electronic model profile representing characteristics of a desired applicant. A filter electronically compares the applicant profile with the model profile, such that for those credit applicants matching the model profile, the applicant data is made available through the system to lender. For those credit applicants not matching the model profile, no applicant data is made available through the system to the lender.

Abstract: A point of sale device having a verifiable electronic journal system which maintains an electronic journal file in lieu of using a journal print station. Transaction information is first stored in a non-volatile random access memory. A data signature is determined based on the contents of the random access memory for a journal. Both the transaction information and the data signature are transferred to the separate journal memory. The journal memory may, for example, reside on the point of sale terminal and tampering with the journal transaction information may be detected by reference to the data signature which is also transferred and maintained in the electronic journal file. Preferably, the data signature is encrypted such as by a shared key encryption scheme and the associated public key is also transferred and stored in the electronic journal file from the device, such as a fiscal base, which is tracking the transaction information as it is created.

Abstract: Payments in cash are submitted to a merchant at a point of sale. The payment transaction is effected electronically to credit the end user's intermediary account. Subsequent electronic communications between the intermediary account and a vendor site effect payment to the vendor for goods or services on behalf of the end user. This system leverages the existing credit card payment system in reverse so as to provide the convenience of submitting cash payments at a multitude of merchant locations.