Abstract: An improved method is provided for managing a whitelist. Upon receipt of an electronic message from an approved sender, the message is reviewed for references to other potential sender that may be added to the whitelist. For example, the potential sender may be copied on the electronic message. Based on this reference, the potential sender is deemed trustworthy and placed on the recipient's whitelist.

Abstract: An economic-based solution is provided for regulating electronic messages (commonly referred to as spam). Analogous to a standard bond mechanism, delivering email to an inbox requires an unknown sender to place a small pledge into escrow with a third party. If the recipient expects further communication with a particular sender, they can add the sender to a list of approved senders which will allow the sender's messages to be delivered to the recipient. An innovative method for managing this list of approved senders is described in the present application. A technique for soliciting electronic messages using the underlying principles of the bond mechanism is also set forth in the application.

Abstract: Disclosed are apparatus and methodology for reducing the chances of a fire during the operation of heating or cooking appliance. Motion sensitive circuitry incorporated into control circuitry for the appliance monitors activity near the appliance. If activity near the appliance is not detected within a preselected time period, heat producing elements associated with the appliance are disengaged. A manual override mechanism may be provided to permit longer term use of the appliance, as special occasions require.

Abstract: A stove including circuitry to facilitate avoidance of fires such as may be caused by grease or another flammable substance present on the stove burner. The circuitry detects when such burner has been set above a predetermined temperature or power level for a selected duration and responsively disengages same. In presently preferred embodiments, the circuitry includes an indicator circuit operative to produce an output when the predetermined temperature or power level has been exceeded. This output initiates operation of a timer circuit which will itself produce an output after the selected duration. An appropriate switching circuit is provided to then disengage the burner as desired.