Abstract: A system and method for securely storing data provides for storing, managing, and updating an owner's secret data and for accessing the stored data by a trusted third party upon the occurrence of an event, such as the death of the owner. The system and method makes use of application software, such as a virtual wallet running at least in part on the server of a trusted third party and with a virtual executor function and a virtual archivist function. The virtual executor function automatically escrows a trusted third party's access aspect of the owner's secret device for accessing the stored data. Upon verification of the occurrence of the event, the virtual executor provides access to the stored data using the trusted third party's access aspect. The virtual archivist function automatically updates technologies related to the stored data.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and method enabling value stored in an advanced technology memory on a transaction card to be utilized in a magnetic stripe transaction with the card. The invention provides a special transaction number that is encrypted and recorded on the magnetic stripe of the card. The special transaction number comprises the value to be transferred or transaction amount, a personal identification number (“PIN”), and an account number. The special transaction number is recorded in a non-discretionary data field. Further, an indicator character may also be recorded on the magnetic stripe to alert a host system of a financial institution of the existence of the special transaction number. Thus, the special transaction number is read during a magnetic stripe transaction and the value represented by the special transaction number may be utilized to perform the transaction.

Abstract: The present invention provides apparatus, methods and systems for information and financial banking. Apparatus of the present invention include virtual wallets which allow for information and financial banking including payment mechanisms; identity authentication mechanisms; personal information; and electronic artifacts. Methods and systems of the present invention include information and financial banking methods utilizing virtual wallets. A preferred virtual wallet comprises a locally residing portion and a server residing portion. An interface is provided for communication between the two portions of the wallet.

Abstract: The present invention discloses a system and method enabling value stored in an advanced technology memory on a transaction card to be utilized in a magnetic stripe transaction with the card. The invention provides a special transaction number that is encrypted and recorded on the magnetic stripe of the card. The special transaction number may comprise the value to be transferred or transaction amount, a personal identification number (“PIN”), as well as other pertinent information. The special transaction number may be recorded in a discretionary data field, non-discretionary data field, or in a combination of both. Further, an indicator character may also be recorded on the magnetic stripe to alert a host system of a financial institution of the existence of the special transaction number. The present invention provides a number of techniques for encrypting the special transaction number.