Abstract: The present invention is a computer-implemented key exchange system and methods for improving the usability of encryption technologies such as Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). One aspect of the present invention includes registering users, verifying user identity, and classifying users such that the users may send a communications such that communication recipients can verify the user identity and classification of the communication sender. Another aspect of the present invention includes users initiating relationships with other users, approving the establishment of relationships, and exchanging encryption keys between users after the establishment of a relationship.

Abstract: In an embodiment of a method of providing contact information, the method includes creating a contact record in a contact management system, where a process associated with a subject of the contact record and/or a recipient of data associated with the contact record is included in creating the contact record. A unique serial number is generated corresponding to the contact record and the serial number is conveyed to the recipient. A request by an application is received for the contact record from the contact management system corresponding to the serial number and data associated with the contact record is transmitted to the application.

Abstract: The present invention is a computer-implemented key exchange system and methods for improving the usability of encryption technologies such as Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). One aspect of the present invention includes registering users, verifying user identity, and classifying users such that the users may send a communications such that communication recipients can verify the user identity and classification of the communication sender. Another aspect of the present invention includes users initiating relationships with other users, approving the establishment of relationships, and exchanging encryption keys between users after the establishment of a relationship.

Abstract: In an embodiment of a method of providing contact information, the method includes creating a contact record in a contact management system, where a process associated with a subject of the contact record and/or a recipient of data associated with the contact record is included in creating the contact record. A unique serial number is generated corresponding to the contact record and the serial number is conveyed to the recipient. A request by an application is received for the contact record from the contact management system corresponding to the serial number and data associated with the contact record is transmitted to the application.