Abstract: An electronic registration system facilitates authorized product returns and reduces the incidence of improper returns. A retailer sales associate is prompted to enter individual product identification information such as an individual serial number. This individual product identification information is then stored in a data base along with the date on which the product was sold and an appropriate UPC code, SKU number or manufacturer code. A check digit algorithm may be used to verify the serial number prior to storage. A sales receipt may be imprinted with at least the date of the transaction and the serial number. When a product is returned, the retailer may cross-reference the serial number on the product with that on the receipt to verify the sales receipt. Otherwise, the database may be searched for pertinent sales information. A customer may also access a return authorization engine via the Internet to obtain return approval, an authorization number, return instructions, etc. to reduce retailer hassle.

Abstract: Certain exemplary embodiments relate to techniques for fraud reduction and/or product recovery. For example, in certain exemplary embodiments, a database includes a plurality of product entries, with each product entry having at least a status field associated therewith. A first interface to the database is configured to enable a first authorized user to add product entries and/or change the status identifiers of the product entries. A second interface to the database is configured to enable a second authorized user to input information regarding a product to be checked against the database to determine whether it was legitimately acquired. Product checking programmed logic circuitry is configured to determine whether the product to be checked was legitimately acquired. The second interface is further configured to provide an indication to the second authorized user whether the product was legitimately acquired.

Abstract: The invention provides a process/system that validates the authenticity of the product UPC, EAN, JAN, RFID, EPC and/or equivalent code, in real-time, while a transaction is taking place. A database is preferably maintained including a list of suspected false or counterfeit UPC, EAN, JAN, RFID, EPC, and/or equivalent number or first digits, and further includes a list of key descriptive text or numbers found on a product or a product's packaging that will either corroborate or contradict the real brand name with the brand encoded in the UPC, EAN, JAN, RFID EPC, and/or equivalent number. The invention allows a transaction if the item is not found in the database of suspect or counterfeit items, or if all of the identifiers match a record in the database; otherwise, the transaction is denied.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a computer-based system that provides a method for real time data storage and retrieval for the purpose of verifying and validating sales transactions and product return/warranty repair eligibility. An electronic product registration system is provided which stores information on purchased products and which enables a retail store or the like to verify compliance with return policies prior to accepting a product for return or replacement, thereby reducing improper or fraudulent product returns under warranty, while also providing related functionality to third parties such as law enforcement agencies and the like.

Abstract: The example embodiments herein relate to the field of electronic registration (ER) of purchased products and, more particularly, to an improved electronic registration system which enables online buyers and sellers (e.g. those participating in online auctions) to take advantage of the benefits associated with ER systems. The ER techniques enable buyers to determine whether the product for sale, for example, has been purchased through authorized channels, was stolen, is covered under a warranty, etc. Such techniques may be used with existing brick-and-mortar stores as well as online stores. Value may be added for buyers, sellers, auction houses, manufacturers, and/or contract service partners.

Abstract: An electronic registration system facilitates authorized product returns and reduces the incidence of improper returns. A retailer sales associate is prompted to enter individual product identification information such as an individual serial number. This individual product identification information is then stored in a data base along with the date on which the product was sold and an appropriate UPC code, SKU number or manufacturer code. A check digit algorithm may be used to verify the serial number prior to storage. A sales receipt may be imprinted with at least the date of the transaction and the serial number. When a product is returned, the retailer may cross-reference the serial number on the product with that on the receipt to verify the sales receipt. Otherwise, the database may be searched for pertinent sales information. A customer may also access a return authorization engine via the Internet to obtain return approval, an authorization number, return instructions, etc. to reduce retailer hassle.

Abstract: A non-serialized electronic product registration (ER) system and method which enables return qualification information to be provided upon request for non-serialized products. Retailer specific return policies are enforced by providing the ER system with retailer return policies for UPCs, SKUs, model numbers and/or other non-unique product identifiers. The retailer periodically provides information to the ER system that indicates the last date on which products having a particular non-unique identifier have been sold. The ER system then determine the last date on which such products can be returned and provides non-serialized return qualification information to the retailer upon request.

Abstract: An electronic product registration (ER) system that manages sales incentive programs to assure that proper credit (e.g., spiff) is given under such programs in accordance with the particular incentive policies associated therewith. The ER system enables sales incentive programs or the like to be more easily implemented, managed and carried out in accordance with the applicable rules and procedures. The invention reduces and/or prevents improper commissions or spiffs from being paid as well as assures that proper commissions are paid when appropriate. By monitoring sales and returns of serialized products for which an incentive program has been defined, the ER system provides accurate reports on credits earned under such programs.

Abstract: An electronic product registration system which manages and validates manufacturer rebate programs to assure that such programs are carried out in accordance with appropriate rules and procedures. The invention reduces or prevents improper rebates from being issued and/or improper product returns from being accepted in connection with products sold with a manufacturer's rebate program or the like. The invention also assures that proper refund amounts are issued for returns when a rebate has been previously provided, as well as provides a tool for enabling the retailer and manufacturer to properly account for refunds and rebates between one another.

Abstract: An electronic product registration (ER) system which enables a retailer, preferable in cooperation with its vendors, to provide a customized return/warranty program for customers on a product-by product basis. The original policy(ies) in the ER system can be modified for a particular product and the modified policy is stored in the ER system so that the modified policy can be accessed if the product is again presented for a return/warranty transaction.