Abstract: A data transfer method performed at a proxy server includes intercepting a data request from a client computer that is directed to a target server, encrypting profile information, augmenting the data request by adding the encrypted profile information to the data request, and sending the augmented data request to the target server. A data transfer method that is performed at an information server includes receiving a data request from a proxy server, extracting profile information added to the data request by the proxy server, using the extracted profile information to generate a response, and sending the response to the proxy server.

Abstract: Methods and systems for providing a network communication status description based on user characteristics. The techniques receive a status indication from a first networked computer in response to a user's request for information and determine one or more characteristics of the user who issued the request. The techniques provide a status description based on the status indication and the determined characteristics of the user (e.g., a preferred language).