Abstract: An authentication manager is provided that is accessible by a mobile wireless device through conventional networks. The mobile wireless device is configured to obtain information regarding at least one identification code displayed on an item and send such information to a the authentication manager. In response, authentication manager provides authentication information to the mobile wireless device. The authentication information indicates whether the at least one identification (and, by implication, the item to which it corresponds) is authentic or not. Additional information regarding the item may also be provided by the authentication manager. The authentication manager can decode and/or translate any received information regarding the at least one identification code as needed. The authentication manager provides the information regarding the at least one identification code to an authenticating entity that returns the authentication information to the authentication manager.