Abstract: Method and apparatus is provided for securely configuring a programmable hardware device from a remote source. The programmable hardware device includes a plurality of programmable logic modules. A host receives configuration information from the remote source, where the configuration information defines a function of the programmable logic modules. The host encrypts the configuration information according to a cryptographic algorithm. The encrypted information is transferred to a special download engine at the programmable hardware device, which decrypts the information according to the same cryptographic algorithm. The programmable logic modules are thus configured by the decrypted configuration information, which has been securely downloaded from the remote source.

Abstract: Method and apparatus is provided for securely configuring a programmable hardware device from a remote source. The programmable hardware device includes a plurality of programmable logic modules. A host receives configuration information from the remote source, where the configuration information defines a function of the programmable logic modules. The host encrypts the configuration information according to a cryptographic algorithm. The encrypted information is transferred to a special download engine at the programmable hardware device, which decrypts the information according to the same cryptographic algorithm. The programmable logic modules are thus configured by the decrypted configuration information, which has been securely downloaded from the remote source.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for allowing a user to select and encrypt a Personal Identification Number (PIN) from a remote location without requiring clear transfer of the user-selected PIN and the account number during a single communication is disclosed. The preferred embodiment includes a host computer connected by a modem to a telephone line, along with appropriate communication software, and a security module connected to the host via a secure communication path. The security module generates an encrypted PIN using the user-selected PIN and a sequence number generated by the host. The security module can also processes the encrypted PIN and user account number to generate a Pin Verification Number (PVN) or other user authorization code. The PVN is subsequently used by a transaction system to verify the identity of the authorized user.

Abstract: The invention comprises a method for encrypting data for communication between a host computer and each of a plurality of remote terminals in a network. A method is provided for periodically generating a unique dynamic encryption key for each of said plurality of terminals using a system seed key residing only in the host computer. The dynamic encryption key generated for use by said terminal in encrypting data transmitted to said host computer and for decrypting data received from said host computer. The method includes storing at said terminal the dynamic key previously generated by said host for said terminal.

Abstract: A portable banking terminal under control of an authorized user and operating within a system of banks and retailers may be initialized for personal use under separate controls by the banks and the retailers to facilitate the completion of basic transactions such as deposits and withdrawals from remote locations. Multiple verification checks for authorization of the user secure the transactions against interception and alteration during transmission over unsecured communication channels.