Abstract: An element which can be plugged into an electronic data processing (EDP) device, for receiving a user card which is equipped with components, including at least one of a processor and/or data memory, a frame having an exterior form, which is designed to accommodate the user card, a first interface for transferring data between the element and the EDP device, and a second interface formed by contacts on the user card and on the frame, for transferring data to and from the user card. The exterior form of the frame is that of a diskette so that it can be inserted into a diskette station of an EDP device. The first interface between the element and the EDP device is designed in a standard fashion, so that data can be transferred using a standard read/write device already present in the diskette station of the EDP device.

Abstract: An identification card, typically of the proximity type, having on its outer structure a numeric keyboard. When approaching a high security entrance, the user enters into the card a PIN code known only to himself or a few others. The PIN code entry is compared to a reference code within the card and if correct enables the logic system of the card. When the card is next placed in proximity to a Reader antenna, a normal read occurs, that is the data of the card is transferred to the Reader. The card acts as a data source. Identification data is transferred during the read action, and also financial transactions, and an emergency code if the user is under duress and requests emergency help. The data sent to the Reader is also optionally sent to a higher order data processing system such as a central computer. In a second embodiment, the proximity circuits and antenna are made integral to a hand held palm top or lap top computer or cell phone.

Abstract: An ETC-relevant information communication control system designed for limiting ETC-relevant information communication between an ETC communication equipment of a toll gate provided on or along a toll road and an vehicle-onboard ETC-relevant information communication control apparatus of a motor vehicle after entry thereof into a communication area for a predetermined interval up to a location within the communication area where communication error can be evaded while maintaining the current speed of the motor vehicle entering the communication area.

Abstract: A memory card insertion type electronic equipment reads authentication data from a memory card, decodes the read authentication data to a set of information by using a secret key, and compares the data read from an application program, which has been stored in the memory card, according to the address of the set of information with the data of the set of information in order to check the memory card for authenticity. There is also provided a memory card writing apparatus that encodes, by using a secret key, a set of information composed of an address generated at random and the data read from an application program, which is run on the memory card insertion type electronic equipment, according to the address, and writes the encoded set of information as the authentication data in the memory card.

Abstract: A transponder type key security system having a plurality of authorized keys efficiently correlates a key code transmitted by a key-based transponder unit with codes stored in an interrogator unit while inhibiting reception interference by multiple signals transmitted by a plurality of key-based transponder units. The interrogator unit transmits a general request for key-based transponder units having pre-stored key codes allocated thereto to respond by giving their respective key codes. A transponder unit, upon receiving the request, transmits its key code to the interrogator unit. The interrogator unit compares a received key code with key codes previously stored to determine if the transponder unit responding is authorized or not. In the event that multiple transponder units respond to the request, the interrogator unit transmits a key-specific request so that only the targeted key-based transponder unit will respond. This prevents multiple transponder requests from interfering with one another.

Abstract: An electronic purse card value system (10) includes terminal devices (12). Each terminal device includes a processor (26) which is in operative connection with a memory (28) and a modem (36). The processor is further in operative connection with components of the terminal device including a customer interface (14) through which inputs are accepted and outputs are delivered, a card reader (22) and a printing device (30,34). The terminal devices are operative to communicate with host computers (42,44,46) through a communication system (38). The system is operative to carry out transactions in which data representative of value is loaded and unloaded from integrated circuit chips on customer cards (24). Data representative of value is stored in the memories of the cards such that certain value amounts are stored in one memory area while other value amounts are stored in a second memory area.

Abstract: The object of the present invention is to effectively enhance card security in a system using identification card or the like. The card security system comprises a card issuing apparatus 100 and a card reader 300. The card issuing apparatus 100 obtains data D and E by reading hologram 2 and barcode 3 on a card 1. Data A, B and C are input from computer 200. An encryption unit 104 generates check data EN based on data A-E. A magnetic writer 103 write the data A-E and EN on a magnetic stripe 4. The card reader 300 reads data A-E and EN from the card 1, generates check data based on the read data A-E, and determines whether or not the card is genuine by comparing the calculated check data with the read check data EN.

Abstract: A coupon manager is provided including a front end, back end and a central processor for facilitating the processing and settlement of coupons. The coupons are received from customers at the front end which may include a cashier register. The cashier scans a bar code on the coupons and the scanned information may be supplied to the back end. The received coupons are delivered to the back end for imaging and processing. The back end determines whether the coupons are valid. Valid coupons are destroyed and sent to a destruction bin, and invalid coupons may be sent to one of a number of other bins. The processed information is forwarded to the central processor which collates the information from a number of stores and reports the information to manufacturers for settlement. The present invention also provides a booklet having a listing of discounted items identifiable by a single bar code.

Abstract: A system and method for authenticating a smart card user at a reader device makes use of an application on a smart card microprocessor on which information fields relating to biometric information for the user and a table of pre-defined probability of occurrence values for user authentication is stored. The smart card and a biometric sample for the user is presented to the reader device, and an application associated with the reader device automatically authenticates the user base on a match level between the stored biometric information and the presented biometric sample according to a desired probability of occurrence value from the stored table. Alternatively, the user is automatically authenticated by an application on the smart card microprocessor.

Abstract: A multi-profile managing apparatus for unifying a plurality of profilers includes an unified access unit, a name managing unit, and a profile access unit. The unified access unit accepts an access request to a profiler from any of services in accordance with an access protocol determined for the service, via an unified access interface corresponding to the protocol. The name managing unit converts a data element name designated in the access request to information in relation to a real storage location within the profiler. The profile access unit accesses the profiler on the basis of the information in relation to the storage location obtained through the conversion, via a corresponding profile access interface.

Abstract: The improved smart card of the present invention preferably comprises a CPU, memory, and a fingerprint reader including a sensing surface. Preferably, the sensing surface is located along a surface of the smart card so that a user's thumb is naturally positioned over the sensing surface when the card is inserted into a write/read unit or other suitable card reader. When an individual inserts the smart card into a write/read unit, the smart card creates an electrical representation of the individual's fingerprint and compares the acquired representation to a stored fingerprint representation in the card's memory. If the acquired representation matches the stored representation, the card is enabled, and the user is given access to information and/or services that require cooperation of the smart card.

Abstract: The present invention and process provides a method and device for verifying an authorized user of a credit/identification card via Internet utilizing a biometric miniature autonomous fingerprint capture and verification system device. The process includes the steps of scanning the owner's credit card information stored on the card, including fingerprint information, scanning the user's fingerprint, and comparing the scanned information to information of the card owner stored on a computer database in communication with the device. If scanned fingerprint, the information on the credit card/identification card and the information corresponding to the owner of the card which is stored in the database do not match, the card is rejected.

Abstract: The data carrier of a device provided with the data carrier includes a casing which is formed by injection molding and which accommodates a holding device for holding a chip and at least one transmission coil, and also includes an electrically conductive connector connected to the holding device and arranged to connect the chip terminals of the chip to the coil terminals of the transmission coil. The holding device includes a holding foil and the connector is realized while utilizing a conductor frame. The connector is formed by conductor segments of the conductor frame with parts of the conductor segments connected to the holding foil in order to hold the conductor segments. The entire holding foil and the parts of the conductor segments which are connected to the holding foil are fully enclosed by the casing.

Abstract: A highly secure personal identification related document is achieved by having an area which contains machine readable information and also having a printed region having embedded data in the image printed thereon. The machine readable information as recorded has been encoded using a secure hash algorithm. For legitimate personal identification related documents, the machine readable data and the embedded data are identical information. The personal identification related document is used in conjunction with a reader system which includes a reader for the machine readable data, an optical scanner for scanning the image and data embedded therein, and a processor. The machine readable data is delivered to the processor which applies the secure hash algorithm thereto to generate a first data set. The digitized image data retrieved with the optical scanner is also delivered to the processor and the embedded data is retrieved therefrom to generate a second data set.

Abstract: Key cabinet (AC1) for equipping an access control system (1) comprising a plurality of devices for reading data associated with personal identification means (EI), access control management means in particular comprising decision making means for controlling accesses and means for retaining a trace of the events occurring in this system, this cabinet (AC1) comprising means (Ci,j) adapted to receive a set of keys (CL) and means (TL) for controlling access to these receiving means. This cabinet (AC1) is connected to the access control system (1) by insertion between a reader device and its controller means. It furthermore comprises means (SC, CE1) for generating a virtual badge corresponding to any change of state, this virtual badge then being transferred to decision making means. Application in particular for equipping existing access control systems with key cabinets.

Abstract: Locks for the transportation industry are programmable with a keypad and with handheld activators, the activators being programmable by a central system and activators via IR transmitters and receivers. Operator PIN numbers and access codes manifesting the supervisory level of authority are encoded in each lock which are programmed to open a given number of times in a given time period with or without entry of a code and include a lockout feature for disabling the lock in case of invalid code entry. Each lock has a log history containing the number of complete and incomplete opening transactions, when they occurred and the operator codes associated therewith. The locks are opened by IR transmission of the appropriate codes or by keypad entries. One or more individuals at different levels of authority may open one or more locks in a given time frame a given number of times. Each lock records its transaction history which is displayed and downloaded for system evaluation.

Abstract: A passage control device for non-contacting data carriers has an antenna unit (5) with a front wall (12) extending in the passage direction and facing the passageway, the height of said wall corresponding to the different wearing heights of the data carriers, and said wall having disposed thereon at least one antenna (13, 14) for data transmission in the radio wave range, and a turnstile (4) with an obliquely downward pointing hinge pin (8) and barrier arms (10) extending obliquely to said hinge pin. The front wall (12) of the antenna unit (5) extends downward beyond the bearing of the turnstile (4). The turnstile (4) is mounted on the area of the antenna unit (5) on the front in the passage direction (15), and the portion (17) of the front wall (12) extending downward beyond the turnstile bearing extends obliquely rearward. The front wall (12) of the antenna unit (5) is designed as an information surface (18) for optical information.

Abstract: The present invention provides a card type recording medium such as an IC card, which contains storage units to store data and an access control unit to control an access to the data by an access subject. The access control unit is designed to include an access subject identification information generating unit to generate an access subject identification information for identifying the access subject, an access authority information read-in unit to read in access authority information set in correspondence with the data that the access subject requests to access, and a control unit to obtain an access authority from the access subject identification information and the access authority information, and to control an access to the data by the access subject on the basis of the access authority obtained. Thereby, the card type recording medium intends to simplify the setting and modifying work of an access authority, and to reliably perform the management and operation of a security system.

Abstract: An information distribution system includes a portable electronic device, and an information management apparatus for storing both right information and information which corresponds to the portable electronic device and which indicates to whom a right belongs.

Abstract: A tag which uses radio frequency waves transmitted from a scanning device in order to identify an item to which the tag is attached or with which the tag is associated. The tag includes a first insulating layer having a top surface and a bottom surface, and resonant circuits formed on the first insulating layer. Each of the resonant circuits are formed on one of the top surface and the bottom surface of the first insulating layer and have a resonant frequency associated therewith. Each of the resonant circuits include capacitance and inductance elements. The capacitance and inductance elements include an inwardly spiralled coil connected to an outwardly spiralled coil. The tag is associated with a binary number established by a pattern of ones and zeros depending on each circuits' resonance or nonresonance, respectively.

Abstract: An ophthalmological laser surgery system having a laser, associated elements for delivering an optical beam from the laser to a patient eye location, a control unit for controlling the operation of the system and a system input/output device, is enabled by a patient data card. The data card originally contains both patient background and system control information, which is transferred to the control unit via the input/output device. During system operation, newly generated information, such as laser beam power, is stored in the data card to provide an independent record of the surgical procedure actually performed. After one use, the data card is invalidated to prevent further use.

Abstract: A wireless debit card communications system comprising a radio unit, a base station, and an end station. The radio unit, for example, a radio telephone, includes a first processor, a reader for reading a credit amount and a personal access number from a debit card, and a transceiver for communicating, using radio waves, a credit signal. The base station receives and relays the credit signal over a communications channel to the end station. The end station includes a switch to generate a first control signal to allocate the credit amount of the debit card to the radio unit, and to set a radio unit access number of the radio unit to the personal access number of the debit card with a communications path through the base station. The end station also generates a second control signal for changing the credit amount and the personal access number of the debit card. The base station may be connected to a debit meter.

Abstract: A control element of an IC card controls in a region of a data memory constituted of EEPROMs all control information of data strings. The control information of the data strings each includes the number of registered data string control information and control information. The control information in the data string control information is constituted of data string identifier, set address information, available data size information, and security condition information. The data string specified by the set address information is constituted of data string length control information, data string, and the data string suitableness control information. The reading, correcting, adding, deleting, and/or writing operation of the data string is controlled by directly specifying a data string with use of the data string identifier in the data string control information.

Abstract: A cardless automated financial transaction apparatus includes an input device configured to generate an input signal corresponding to a customer identifier in response to actuation of the input device by a customer, a biometric device configured to receive biometric information about the customer, a storage device including a database of customer information, the customer information including stored biometric information, a connection to a banking network provider, and an electronic processor. The processor is configured to receive the input signals from the input device, receive biometric information from the biometric device, and access the database of customer information in response to the input signals to obtain data about the customer identified by the customer identifier, the data including stored biometric information for the customer.

Abstract: A control circuit receives data input by the user through an operable monitor, attaches a data-encoding instruction to the input data, and supplies the instruction-attached input data to an IC card reader/writer. Upon receiving the instruction-attached input data, the IC card reader/writer reads encoding key data stored in an IC card, thereby encoding the data and returning it to the control circuit. The control circuit, in turn, modifies the returned encoded data in the form of communicable data, and supplies a communication circuit with the modified encoded data and an instruction to transmit the data. Upon receiving the modified encoded data and instruction, the communication circuit transmits the modified encoded data to a host computer via a communication line.

Abstract: A data carrier device for outputting data stored in the data carrier device to at least one data reading device is provided with a data storage device for storing data and a fail count storage device for storing a fail count, a password information storage device for storing at least one password information item, and a test device for testing whether password information output to the data carrier device by a data reading device matches password information stored in the password information storage device, and for changing a fail count, stored in the fail count storage device in dependence on the test result. There is provided a random number generator for selecting a random number from a random number range, and the test device being arranged to fix, in case the tested password information does not match, a selected random number as the fail count.

Abstract: A method for remote verification in which a first party at a first telephone confirms their identity to a second person at a second telephone. The fingerprint of the first person is read and compared to a stored fingerprint pattern. If the stored and sensor fingerprint patterns match, the first telephone transmits a signal to the second telephone which controls a display on the second telephone to display an image of the first person.

Abstract: Locking and unlocking an application in a smart card allows for automatic authenticity of a lock or unlock command without the need for a personal identification number (PIN). The smart card is locked and unlocked by using a smart card device that need not have a keypad. A lock command is sent from the device to the smart card. An application on the smart card is locked. The smart card sends identifying information, such as a password and a card identification number, to the device which is stored in a cache. To unlock, the smart card is inserted into the device and an unlock button is pressed. The smart card device reads the card identification number of the card and determines if the corresponding password for that card is present in the cache. If so, an unlock command is issued to the smart card along with the password.

Abstract: Scheme for the distinguishing of reachable objects and non-reachable objects used by an object-based application in a system with volatile memory of limited size. The object-based application operates on n objects whereby Z objects thereof are root objects. The following steps are carried out for each root object: (a) traversing from said root object to any other object that can be reached from said root object; (b) marking all objects that were reached from said root object and storing, while marking, in said volatile memory a description of the path from said root object to the currently visited object; if the marking phase reaches an object and the respective path does not fit into said volatile memory, then this object is not marked but identified as an object which has to be processed later; and continuing the marking phase until all root objects identified as objects which have to be processed later are processed.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for controlling access to at least one program on a computer by verifying data entered through a scanner with data stored on a token such as a card, while isolating the entered data from the computer. The apparatus includes a scanner, a memory and a processor coupled to the scanner and memory. When activated, the scanner scans a field which the processor compares with a field stored in the memory. The processor is operable in a first mode wherein access to the computer via a keyboard is inhibited when the scanned field does not match the stored field. The processor is operable in a second mode, wherein the keyboard is coupled to the computer so that the at least one program on the computer is accessible via the keyboard when the scanned field matches the stored field. Various embodiments are disclosed.

Abstract: A system and method for authenticating a signature on an originally signed article employs at least one camera for capturing an image of an individual when actually signing the article. In one embodiment, the image is a real-time video image, and in another embodiment, the image is a still photo. The images associated with the signed article, so that a holder of the article has a mechanism by which to authenticate the signature. Preferably, the signed article has a unique identifier located thereon, and the image is preferably edited to also include that identifier. A memorabilia kit, containing an originally signed article, a storage medium having stored thereon a captured image of an original signing event associated with the article, is also provided. Additionally, a captured image and data indicative of the signed article are stored electronically in association with each other, such as on a storage medium made available to a holder of the signed article, or in a data base which is accessible remotely.

Abstract: A description is given of a method of extending the period of validity of smart cards, without the cards having to be surrendered by their owner. For this purpose, use is made of reading/writing devices which are installed near smart card users and, by extension passwords sent to the owner by a central issuing agency, extend the date of validity of the smart card.

Abstract: Process and device for the contacting of a wire conductor (113) in the course of the manufacture of a transponder unit arranged on a substrate (111) and comprising a wire coil (112) and a chip unit (115), wherein in a first phase the wire conductor (113) is guided away via the terminal area (118, 119) or a region accepting the terminal area and is fixed on the substrate (111) relative to the terminal area (118, 119) or the region assigned to the terminal area, and in a second phase the connection of the wire conductor (113) to the terminal area (118,119) is effected by means of a connecting instrument (125).

Abstract: A Credit Card holder's telephone number is assigned to his or her credit card as an alias. The cardholder is then required to choose a PIN for security purposes. The telephone number is linked to the cardholder's credit card number via a database. When the cardmember enters into a transaction with a merchant, the card need not be present. The cardmember simply provides his or her telephone number and then the PIN. This can be done at any point of sale such as a store, catalog telephone order, or over the internet. The telephone number and PIN are entered and authorization is returned from the credit card company.

Abstract: An access control system that incorporates a fail count that is decremented upon entrance of the correct PIN (or password) and incremented upon entrance of an incorrect PIN. Access to a system is denied until the fail counter is equal to one less than its reference value. It becomes increasingly difficult to exhaust over all the possible PINs because the correct PIN needs to be entered and re-entered repeatedly depending on the number of prior incorrect entries. Moreover, an unauthorized user receives no indication when a correct PIN is entered because the entity will not automatically unlock. The access control system can be used for protecting unauthorized access into any access-controlled entity such as bank accounts when a PIN is used in conjunction with a magnetic strip card, or an employee badge to control access to a controlled facility, or into any existing or future computer architectures.

Abstract: A system and method for monitoring and/or managing a business meeting, the system including a processor, memory circuitry, timer circuitry, a display and an electronic sensor. The electronic sensor scans an identification device of each attendee arriving at or withdrawing from the meeting to acquire individual unit time cost and/or individual identification data. The processor adds or subtracts individual unit time cost data to a total unit time cost parameter stored in the memory circuitry each time that an identification device is scanned by the electronic sensor, and calculates a metered cost parameter based upon the total unit time cost parameter and elapsed time data from the timer circuitry. The processor also increases or decrease a total number of attendees parameter each time an identification device is scanned. The system displays a number of time and/or cost related parameters of the meeting, such as the metered cost, the total elapsed time, and the total number of attendees.

Abstract: A biometric authentication system is provided which includes a dual input reader, the inputs consisting of stored physiological data of a user on a chip disposed on a smart card, and a fingerprint scan for comparison against the stored data. The system is self-contained so that the comparison of the biometric data with the data stored on the chip is done immediately on board the reader without relying upon communications to or from an external source in order to authenticate the user. The invention also prevents communication with external sources prior to user authentication being confirmed, so as to prevent user data from being stolen or corrupted. Alternatively, the biometric input can consist of a retina scan, voice identification, saliva or other biometric data.

Abstract: A communication system comprising multiple terminal equipment (1), each consisting of a terminal (4) cooperating with a microprocessor-driven user card (SIM module; 5). Each user card includes data memory (8) comprising a plurality of objects and serving as medium to at least two separate applications, the user card comprising a microprocessor (6) and ROM (7) for executing instructions pertaining to the applications. Each object contained in the user card data memory is associated with a first defined access control policy by a set of first access conditions. Each object is also associated with at least another access control policy defined by a set of at least one alternative access condition. Each alternative access condition is applicable, for the object, to group of at least on instruction pertaining to the application(s) using the other defined access control policy.

Abstract: An unattended system, such as a self-service terminal or an automated teller machine, includes a memory unit which stores a number of application programs, and a register unit which stores a number of signatures associated with the application programs. The system further includes a processing unit which obtains a signature associated with a particular application program, compares the signature with the signatures stored in the register unit, and authenticates the application program only when the signature matches at least one of the signatures stored in the register unit.

Abstract: A method for inhibiting the counterfeiting of electronic cash smart cards that use microchips for monetary stored value or digital identity cards that use microchips to control the transfer of data. Such electronic cash cards have recently been counterfeited by the use of electronic techniques to break the security codes. Such counterfeiting can be inhibited by bonding an optical memory stripe to the smart card with pre-recorded or post-recorded validation data at one or multiple locations on the cards. This optical validation data would be read with a photodetector array and could be transmitted to the recipient during funds transfer and/or used locally to control dispensing of cash or data. Thus successful counterfeiting of the modified electronic cash or digital identity card would require meeting exacting electronic and optical requirements.

Abstract: A memory card is disclosed which has a card body (2) having a concavity (9) formed at the forward end thereof in the inserting direction and in which terminals (5) are disposed and projections (10) are formed between the terminals (5) to prevent the terminals (5) from being touched or accessed from outside. A receptacle for the memory card is also disclosed. The memory card has a simple structure designed to positively protect the terminals and easily let out dust or the like from inside, thereby permitting to assure a positive connection with the receptacle.

Abstract: A computer peripheral device for providing a computer system with user input data and user biometric data includes an event sensing portion for detecting a user action and for converting the user input into a data first stream, the user action of a type appropriate for the computer peripheral device, a biometric acquisition portion for acquiring biometric data from the user at substantially a same time the event sensing portion detects the user action, and for converting the biometric data into a second data stream, and a processor coupled to the event sensing portion and the biometric acquisition portion for reversibly encoding the first data stream and the second data stream to form a third data stream, and for providing the third data stream to a computer system or a network.

Abstract: A disk-cartridge-type adapter is capable of preventing damage to a head of the adapter and a head of a disk cartridge drive into which the adapter is inserted, even if these heads are deviated from each other. The adapter is also capable of effectively using the functions of the disk cartridge drive. The head of the adapter has a gap width and a head length that are sufficiently large to cover a setting error between the heads of the adapter and disk cartridge drive. The head of the adapter is covered with protective films having grooves. The head of the adapter has reinforcing supports each having a hollow in which the head of the disk cartridge drive moves. The head and supports of the adapter have holes for passing a shaft fixed to the adapter. The diameter of the holes is greater than that of the shaft. The adapter has a write-protect mechanism and a double-density detecting mechanism. The adapter has a card slot provided with a stepped part, and a hole used to extract an IC card from the adapter.

Abstract: A system to encourage on time repayment of loans includes electronic apparatus coupled to a critical system of certain equipment; for example, the ignition system of an automobile. Apparatus includes mechanism whereby a user-operator is able to enter a code. Entry of a correct code serves as indication that a payment has been made and enables further use of the equipment. On failure to timely make payments, a user is prevented from using the equipment as the apparatus is arranged to disable the equipment by way of the critical system to which it is coupled. Both a user-operator interface and critical system interruption circuit are coupled to a logic processor which is easily mounted onto equipment subject to the program.

Abstract: Disclosed is a multifunction card system which provides a multifunction card capable of serving as a prepaid phone card, a debit card, a loyalty card, and a medical information card. Each card has an identification number comprising a bank identification number which assists in establishing communications links. The card system can be accessed from any existing point-of-sale (POS) device. The POS device treats the card as a credit or debit card and routes transaction data to a processing hub using the banking system. The processing hub coordinates the various databases corresponding to the various functions of the card.

Abstract: A fingerprint authentication methodology in which a smart card with a credit card form factor is used to transmit the imprint of a fingerprint to a live-scan device. Use of a credit card form avoids direct contact of the imprint with the live-scan device, reducing wear and tear on the live-scan device. Use of a “smart” card to store an imprint template enables the owner of user to maintain control of the print.

Abstract: Locking and unlocking an application in a smart card allows for automatic authenticity of a lock or unlock command without the need for a personal identification number (PIN). The smart card is locked and unlocked by using a smart card device that need not have a keypad. The smart card device is a dedicated reader and locking/unlocking device, or can be a bank terminal, PC, telephone, etc. The smart card is inserted into the smart card device. A lock command is sent from the device to the smart card. An application on the smart card is locked. The smart card sends identifying information, such as a password and a card identification number, to the device which is stored in a cache. The identifying information allows automatic authentication for unlocking of the card at a later time. The locked application cannot be used until it is unlocked. To unlock, the smart card is inserted into the device and an unlock button is pressed.

Abstract: A self-authenticating document is created by providing a one-way hash value in a symbol creation process, and then using a public key to decrypt data of the self-authenticating document. Raw data to be provided with the self-authenticating document is received, and an account digital signature key is retrieved and used to sign the raw data. A non-repudiation hash value from a previously-created self-authenticating document is utilized, and the raw data and the digital signature key is combined with the hash value to create a new hash value for the self-authenticating document. The hashed data is then encrypted, and any non-encrypted fields are merged in to create a full data packet. The full data packet is used to provide a self-authenticating symbol, such as a bar code label, on the self-authenticating document. The self-authenticating code is used during a document verification step to ensure that the document is genuine.

Abstract: The invention is a method and system for managing admission to an attraction. In one or more embodiments, the system comprises a first queue by which customers may access the attraction by waiting in line and a second queue by which customers may access the attraction in a manner which avoids the first queue. The system includes a first validator for validating an entitlement of a customer to receive an assigned time in the future for accessing the attraction via the second queue, a media distributor for distributing a media to an entitled customer, the media including the assigned time at which the entitled customer is entitled to access the attraction in the future, and a second validator for validating the entitled customer access to the attraction at the time provided on the media.

Abstract: Improved integrity of a payment system for paying for services or goods, for example, telephone facilities, through use of electronic payment cards. In any session to increase a card balance, a “flag” is placed (“1”) on the payment card which indicates that the session must not be interrupted. After completion, the flag is removed again (“0”). A session to pay for the product or the service or to increase the balance can only be established if the flag is absent (“0”) indicating that the last session to increase the balance was correctly completed. If, on the other hand, the flag is still “1” at the start of a session, a correction routine is first performed in which the previous session to increase the balance is then correctly concluded to prevent the flag being removed by fraud, the flag can only be removed by a central system (PSTN/ABS) through issurance of an authorized instruction.