Abstract: Method and systems for securely and accurately authenticating a payment card by using biometric information associated with an authorized user is provided. The method may be implemented by providing a payment card that includes a processor; a display area coupled to the processor and configured to hide account information when the payment card has not been authenticated and to display the account information for a predetermined time interval when the payment card is authenticated; a sensor coupled to the processor and configured to capture biometric information of a user; and a communication interface coupled to the processor and configured to facilitate wireless communication with a mobile smart phone.

Abstract: A portable, personal, manually-activated safety restraining gas bag shield is provided herein. It includes a bag formed solely of gas-impermeable non-expandable fabric which is adapted to be selectively provided either in a deflated condition or in an inflated condition. A pocket in the bag having access means to the interior of the bag and controlled by a manually-actuatable, one-way valve to provide for gas to the interior of the bag. A cylinder of compressed gas is disposed within the pocket the cylinder including a closed nozzle connected to the manually-controlled, one-way valve for inflating the bag. Manually actuatable structure is provided to operate the manually-actuatable valve, thereby to control the flow of gas released from the cylinder into the interior of the bag.