Abstract: A payment system that utilises the Internet to gain access to an Internet banking system enabling a user to purchase merchandise bought through an online merchant or merchant who has Internet access in their store is disclosed. The payment system may also be utilised to provide a means for a user to retrieve and view balances and account transaction information for their bank accounts and to transfer funds between accounts. The system uses a “virtual pin-pad” which provides a web-based, stand-alone method of payment that is independent of banks and capable of performing real-time currency conversions.