Abstract: An information system. The system provides a user interface for selecting subject matter of interest to a user as well as various components for retrieving information items, for classifying information items to identify information items relating to the selected subject matter, for rating the identified information items, and for notifying the user about identified information items meeting a predetermined criteria. The system also includes components for requesting a subject mailer expert (SME) to apply a rating to the retrieved information items. The predetermined criteria typically include the information item having a rating exceeding an interest value set by the user.

Abstract: An information system (12) is described. The system (12) comprises: a user interface (20,90) for selecting subject matter of interest to a user; retrieval means (64) for retrieving information items; classifying means (66) for classifying information items to identify information items relating to the selected subject matter; rating means (68) for rating the identified information items; and notifying means (72) for notifying the user about identified information items meeting a predetermined criteria. The system also includes feedback request means (70) for requesting a subject matter expert (SME) to apply a rating to the retrieved information items. The predetermined criteria typically includes the information item having a rating exceeding an interest value set by the user. A method of collecting selected information is also described.

Abstract: A self-service terminal having an acoustic interface is described. The terminal comprises a user locating mechanism, a controller, and an array of individually controllable acoustic elements. In use, the locating mechanism is operable to locate a user and to convey user location information to the controller, and the controller is operable to focus each acoustic element to the user's location to increase the privacy of the user in using the terminal. A method of interacting with a self-service terminal is also described.

Abstract: A data brokerage system (12) is described. The system comprises: a database (18) for storing a plurality of data accounts; a data update interface (24); and a data sales interface (26) for allowing a third party to query preselected data accounts. Each data account includes data associated with an individual and access rights selected by the individual. The data update interface (24) allows an individual to add data to their data account. The system (12) is able to charge a third party a fee for accessing data accounts meeting an acceptance criteria. A method of selling access to data in a database is also described. The method comprises the steps of: storing data associated with an individual (100); allowing the individual to determine access rights to the data (124); and selling access to the data to a third party (106).

Abstract: A self-service automated teller system includes a fraud detection module which uses a biometric recognition technique, such as voice or fingerprint recognition, in combination with predictive technology. The biometric recognition test is normally decisive, but if this test produces a result which is close to a predetermined threshold, the predictive technology checks to determine whether the transaction is consistent with the user's normal behavior before permitting the transaction to proceed. A suspicion count may also be included in the decision-making process, to determine whether or not the user has a previous record of suspicious transactions.