Abstract: In a system for making a print of a digital image including a computer for storing a digital image data and a printing device for making the print of the digital image data, a method comprises a step of transmitting from the computer to the printing device the digital image data along with information indicative of a location of the digital image data in the computer, a step of making at the printing device the print based on the transmitted digital image data, and a step of adding at the printing device the transmitted information to the print.

Abstract: Counterfeit resistant articles are created by reading a first pattern from an article and encoding the first pattern into a first data set. The first data set is transformed into a second data set, and converted into a second pattern. An article is marked with the second pattern to make it counterfeit resistant. Identification of counterfeit articles occurs by reading a plurality of patterns and converting the plurality of patterns into a corresponding plurality of data sets. These corresponding data sets are then compared for counterfeit identification purposes.

Abstract: The invention is a method and system for determining an address from a print buffer stream. The method begins with initializing an address detection and determination routine, and then directing a print buffer stream to be read by the address detection and determination routine. In reading the print stream data, the application tokenizes address data resident in the print stream before comparing the tokenized data with data tables wherein each of the data tables comprises address characteristics. In making the comparison of the tokenized address data, the method then determines whether or not the tokenized address data matches a format in one of the data tables. If a match is found, then the method applies a coding scheme to the matched data. The coding scheme being determined in accordance with the matched data's corresponding data table. Matched data is coded in accordance with the coding scheme to create a coded address.

Abstract: A system for controlling the validity of printing of indicias on mailpieces from a potentially large number of users of postage meters includes apparatus disposed in each said postage meter for generating a code and for printing the code on each mailpiece. The code is an encrypted code representative of the postage meter apparatus printing the indicia and other information uniquely determinative of the legitimacy of postage on the mailpieces. The keys for the code generating apparatus are changed to change its code generation at predetermined time intervals in each of the meters. A security center includes apparatus for maintaining a security code database and for keeping track of the keys for generating security codes in correspondence with the changes in each generating apparatus and the information printed on the mailpiece by the postage meter apparatus for comparison with the code printed on the mailpiece.

Abstract: Line art on a banknote or other security document is slightly changed to effect the encoding of plural-bit digital data (i.e. the banknote is digitally watermarked). When such a banknote is thereafter scanned, the resulting image data can be recognized as corresponding to a banknote by detection of the encoded data. (Alternatively, the image data can be recognized as corresponding to a banknote by machine detection of other forms of watermarking, or by reference to visible structures characteristic of banknotes.) In response to detection of a banknote, the detecting apparatus (e.g., a scanner, photocopier, or printer) can intervene by inserting forensic tracer data (e.g. steganographically encoded binary data) in the image data. The tracer data can memorialize the serial number of the machine that processed the banknote data and/or the date and time such processing occurred.

Abstract: A PSD has a private key which is associated with a specific public key that is stored in the host PC. The host PC sends the PSD public key private key to the PSD. If the PSD determines that the received PSD public key corresponds to its private key, the system has determined that the expected PSD is connected to the Host system and the PSD is activated to accept postal value requests from the host PC. Additionally, a PSD state identification, such as a checksum of a PSD transaction log file stored in the host may be verified by the PSD, which also has stored therein a PSD transaction log file. In this manner the PSD verifies that the PSD has performed all transactions with the host PC sending the checksum. Methods for verifying in the PSD that the expected host PC is coupled to the PSD mirrors the two embodiments for verifying the expected PSD.

Abstract: An output system having a data processor and an printer or other output device for outputting data in a specific format, which is sent from the data processor, to which is installed driver software for controlling the output device. Whether the data on output request passes the driver software is determined in sending data to the output device. Data are prohibited from being sent to the output device for output requests on which data bypasses the driver software.

Abstract: The invention relates to an apparatus and method for enhancing the security of selected information associated with a negotiable document, such as the monetary value of a cheque. In the invention, one or more security features are printed or applied onto the cheque. One such security feature is an encrypted control code. The preferred embodiment employs a secret key cryptographic scheme to encrypt the monetary value and thereby generate a first control code which is printed on tile cheque. When the cheque is presented for payment, a validator, such as bank or cheque cle aring house, employs a verification system having a copy of the encryption key to read the monetary value from the cheque and re-encrypt it according to said scheme to generate a second control code. The cheque is not honoured if the first and second control codes are not identical. Another security feature is a security image, composed, for instance, from a foreground image of the monetary value superimposed over a background motif image.

Abstract: A cryptographic encoded, ticket issuing and collection system for real-time purchase of tickets by purchasers at remote user stations in an information network that includes a plurality of remote user stations coupled to a server in an information network, e.g., the Internet, for purchase of services, products, or tickets to an event. An operator of the remote user station selects a ticket for purchase to an event using standard protocols of information network. An electronic ticket is transmitted to the operator and includes a cypher code created using a public key cryptography system. The operator displays the electronic ticket for verification purposes and proceeds to print out the ticket at the station. The ticket is presented to a ticket collector whereupon the ticket is scanned by a portable terminal for decoding the cypher code using a public key reloaded into the terminal by the producers of the event.

Abstract: A method for generating authentication identification symbols, such as numbers, letters, etc., generates sequences of unpredictable symbols which are employed by vendors of various types of goods to authenticate the goods. Using special mathematical functions, an agent generates a first unpredictable subset of symbols to be supplied to a vendor for marking the vendor's goods. The subset is unpredictable in that knowledge of one or more symbols in the subset cannot be employed to predict other symbols in the subset. Preferably, the vendor then selects another subset of symbols from the first subset, and the symbols in this sub-subset are employed for marking the vendor's goods. The unpredictability of the symbol sequences prevents a counterfeiter from being able to predict other symbols in the sequence. In addition, the vendor's use of a sub-subset of symbols prevents the agent from knowing which of the original subset of symbols the vendor is employing to mark the goods.

Abstract: A system and method for printing an outbound and/or an associated return postage meter stamp, including a desired postage amount, onto a label or onto an outbound document and/or an associated return document. A processor based system is programmed to interact with a customer to produce individualized documents, printed address labels, and a printed postage meter stamp having in one embodiment, a customized postage indicia. The processor based system automatically calculates the postage due for each specific document, prints that postage amount as a meter stamp, interacts with the customer to generate a personalized stamp indicia, encrypts selected information into a machine readable format, and prints the information entered by the customer in a selected format, all on the document or documents for transfer to the outside of a mailing envelope.

Abstract: A data exchange unit is arranged in a server. Service data provided as an application service is converted into a predetermined format on the basis of the attribute data of a terminal as a communication partner and is transmitted. With this processing, the application service can be provided while adjusting the relative difference in processing capability terminals. When the service data is converted into a predetermined format on the basis of the attribute of a communication network connected to the terminal and transmitted, the application service can be provided while adjusting the relative difference in communication capability among communication networks. Also, terminal equipment 51 is able to communicate with server computer while keeping the security function.

Abstract: The present invention provides an apparatus and method for confirming, timestamping, and archiving documents using telecopiers (e.g., facsimile machines). A user sends a document to a timestamping service via facsimile, which archives the transmission with a timestamp. A submission receipt, containing size-reduced images of the submission and a document identification value (DIV), is prepared and sent to the sender. The DIV can later be submitted to the timestamping service to obtain verification that the document was received at the indicated time. In addition, the invention allows for various other forms of document transmission, document identification, and timestamp verification. The invention is thus useful in any situation where it is desired to prove that a document was in existence at a given time. Other embodiments of the invention provide senders of facsimile and telecopier transmissions with confirmation that their transmissions were received successfully.

Abstract: A digital data encode system for inserting water mark data into digital data signals having a series of field data by use of a water mark data inserting device, the digital data encode system has a field judging unit dividing the digital data signals by a predetermined reference, a water mark data selection output unit for selecting proper one of a plurality of different water mark data prepared correspondingly to the division according to the judgment result of the field judging unit, and a water mark data inserting device for inserting the water mark data supplied from the water mark data selection output unit into the digital data signals.

Abstract: A secure and reliable method for verifying in the host system that the expected PSD is coupled to the host system includes generating a random number in the host system and encrypting the random number with a PSD state identification number. The encrypted random number is then sent to the PSD. The PSD decrypts the encrypted random number received using the PSD state identification number and sends the decrypted random number to the host system. The host system compares the decrypted random number received from the PSD to the random number generated in the host system. If they are the same, the host system has verified the expected PSD and has also verified that the PSD has not completed any transactions apart from the host system. A method for verifying that the expected host is coupled to the PSD mirrors the method for verifying the expected PSD.

Abstract: A transaction evidencing system includes a personal computer (PC) comprising a processor, memory and hard drive, with a plurality of non-metering application programs that selectively run on the PC. An unsecured printer is operatively coupled to the PC for printing in accordance with the non-metering application programs. A portable vault card that is removably coupled to the PC is programmed to generate tokens generation and perform transaction accounting. An application interface module in the PC, which interfaces with the non-metering application programs, issues a request for digital tokens in response to requests for indicia from a non-metering application program. A secure communications module in the PC, which securely communicates with the vault card when the vault card is coupled to the PC, sends the request for digital token to the vault card and receives a digital token generated by the vault card.

Abstract: A transaction evidencing system includes a plurality of computer systems operatively configured to form a network with one of the computer systems functioning as a server and the remaining computer systems functioning as clients. Each of the computer systems includes a processor, memory and storage media. At least some of the storage means includes non-metering application programs that are selectively run on the client computer systems. An unsecured printer is operatively coupled to at least one of the computer systems for printing in accordance with the non-metering application programs. A portable vault card, which is removably coupled to the server computer system, includes digital token generation and transaction accounting processing. The client computer systems issue requests for digital tokens to the server computer system in response to requests for indicia from the non-metering application programs.

Abstract: A system and method include means for processing a cryptographic certificate adapted to provide security functionality. A register means is provided and means for adjusting the register means to account for services when the cryptographic certificate is processed. In accordance with anther aspect, a system and method include a register means for storing funds. Means are provided for processing a digital token providing proof of postage payment and means are also provided for processing a cryptographic certificate adapted to provide security functionality. Means debit funds stored in the register means when the digital token is processed and when the cryptographic certificate is processed. Processing the cryptographic certificate may involve many functions such as providing security services and/or certificate management functions (including generating and verifying cryptographic certificates) and/or key management functions and/or access to any needed private keys to perform security services.

Abstract: An electronic watermarking scheme is proposed that can significantly increase the security of copy protection mechanisms. The watermarking methods works at high level in the hierarchy of the (MPEG) source signal. This ensures that the watermark is easily detectable, but difficult to erase without significant transcoding effort. Such transcoding is considered a difficult and expensive task that may furthermore lead to loss of quality or increase in bit rate.

Abstract: A computer network security system provides generation of a certificate revocation list (CRL) upon each revocation. The entire certificate revocation list may be published on demand, or only the portion that has changed. The computer network security system provides on-demand publishing of data identifying revoked certificates, such as revocation and expiration data, in response to receipt of revocation request data. The computer network security system stores the on-demand published data for analysis by one or more network nodes, such as a client, to determine whether a certificate is valid. The network nodes include certificate revocation list cache memory that may be selectively activated/deactivated, to effect storage/non-storage of the data identifying the revoked certificates.

Abstract: The present invention is a method of encrypting unique addressee information into the indicium of a mail piece and verifying the indicium. Local digital tokens are printed in the indicium of the mail piece and point to pivotal address characters in the addressee block. The pivotal address characters are also printed in the indicium. Additionally, a global digital token is included in the indicium.

Abstract: A postage meter machine has a chip card write/read unit and a controller which, in conjunction with suitably initialized chip cards, allows the function input and the administration of cost center data to be handled in a simplified manner. For deriving chip cards that set a limited function scope, a table with a specific hierarchic structure can be produced using the keyboard and display and with the assistance of the microprocessor and the appertaining non-volatile memories within the postage meter machine, so that the pre-stored structure is correspondingly modified by the user. A tree structure in the hierarchy thereby arises for second chip cards and further successor cards derived from the first chip card, particularly specific function application cards that allow access to the table with their chip card number internally stored in the chip card.

Abstract: A system is described whereby a document may be authenticated by an issuer thereof and verified by a recipient. Data from the document, at least a portion of which is specific to the document and identifies the document, is input to an authenticating device using an input device. A computing device, including a cryptographic processor and a memory, is coupled to said input device and receives a signal representing the data. The computing device performs a cryptographic operation based on the data to produce encrypted authentication data unique to the document. An output device is coupled to the computing device and affixes a representation of the authentication data on the document. A similar device, including a display device, is used to input the encrypted data, perform a cryptographic operation to decrypt the data, and compare the decrypted data with document identification data to verify the document. Encryption and decryption are performed using a private key/public key pair.

Abstract: An apparatus and process for hiding the secondary image within the primary image and generating a high quality hard copy of the unified elemental image of a variety of media. The process comprises the steps of rasterizing the first image into an first elemental image and rasterizing the second image, compensated with its own inverse, into an second elemental image. The first elemental image and the second elemental image are merged into a unified elemental image based on a predetermined decoding and compensating principle, resulting in the second elemental image being hidden within the first elemental image. An output image is created based on the unified elemental image where the primary image is visible to an un-aided eye while the secondary image is hidden from the un-aided eye.

Abstract: The present invention is a system and method for character recognition using pattern recognition. In one embodiment of the invention, a plurality of representations of a plurality of characters is received by a system. A plurality of cipher labels are assigned to representations in the plurality of representations. The plaintext identity of cipher labels in the plurality of cipher labels is determined using isomorphic pattern recognition. The present invention includes A plaintext isomorphic dictionary containing plaintext words organized by their root isomorphic patterns. Additionally, the present invention includes a Raster-Plaintext Library which contains extensive data on taster letters, and their plaintext identities, from an exhaustive collection of fonts.

Abstract: Each copy of software, such as software used by a digital computer to create a document and the software used by printers, facsimile machines or digital copiers to produce or reproduce documents, is assigned a unique identifying code pattern which is printed on all documents produced with that software by a high resolution printer. The unique identifying code pattern is a plurality of spaced apart marks having a size no greater than about 150 dpi and preferably about 300 dpi, and is therefore, at best, barely noticeable to the human observer. The "invisible signature" permits detection of documents made by unauthorized copies of software or by unauthorized or improper use of authorized copies. Preferably, the unique identifying code is replicated multiple times over the document using an error correcting code to assure that at least one replication will be clear of matter selected for printing by the software. A high resolution scanner extracts and identifies the code patterns printed on the document.

Abstract: Secure financial transactions may be made with insecure facsimile transmissions using encoded customer-specific information that can be readily decoded and confirmed by a merchant. The encoded information is affixed to an order form using, for instance, a label. The encoded information may include a serial number for use in confirming the order. Other information such as a card number (e.g., credit card) and expiration date may also be included.

Abstract: A method and system for processing mail pieces or substrates containing data printed thereon involves scanning a mail piece or substrate and obtaining information concerning the printed data. The information is processed to determine if the data is readable. Non readable data information is processed to determine if the non readable data is due to predetermined causes of a first type or predetermined causes of a second type. Substrates or mail pieces with non readable data due to predetermined causes of the first type may be processed in a first manner and processing substrates or mail pieces with non readable data due to predetermined causes of the second type may be processed in a second manner. The printing may be optical character recognizable, bar code of any type or any other form of printed data.

Abstract: The present invention provides a cryptosystem for encrypting an original image or voice file by using a camouflaging image or voice file. Each of the original and camouflaging files comprises a plurality of basic units arranged according to a predetermined sequence. The cryptosystem comprises a memory for storing the original and camouflaging files and programs, a processor for executing the programs stored in the memory, and an encrypting program stored in the memory for encrypting the original file by using the camouflaging file.

Abstract: A proof-of-postage generating system wherein funds, application of those funds, the replenishment of those funds and the auditing of those funds are secure against attempts at fraud. The system may either be a Closed System (CS) wherein the proof-of postage printing means are housed within the system computational means or within a cryptographically secure boundary. Further, the system my be an Open System (OS) wherein the proof-of postage printing means are external to the system computational means.

Abstract: A system for electronic distribution of postage includes at least one secure central computer for generating postal indicia in response to postage requests submitted by end user computers, and at least one postal authority computer system for processing the postal indicia on mail pieces. A key aspect of the system is that all secure processing required for generating postal indicia is performed at secure central computers, not at end user computers, thereby removing the need for specialized secure computational equipment at end user sites. A secure central computer includes a database of information concerning user accounts of users authorized to request postal indicia from the secure central computer. A request validation procedure authenticates received postage requests with respect to the user account information in the database.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method and system for regulating discounts on merchandise distributed through networked computer systems. The method and system involve the use of discount coupons valid toward the repurchase of the merchandise. These discount coupons include mechanisms for verifying the validity of the coupons. A system in which the present invention operates includes a vendor computer system and a user computer system connected via a network. The vendor and user computer systems each include a computer connected to a display device, a keyboard, and a secondary storage device. A vendor discount regulator and a user discount regulator are stored in the vendor/user secondary storage devices for execution by the vendor/user computers. In operation, when a user desires to purchase merchandise, the user creates a request to purchase the merchandise and sends the request to purchase to a vendor.

Abstract: A method for checking a security imprint in a postage meter machine having a microprocessor includes the steps of encoding data for a security mark pixel image and inserts the encoded data into the remaining, fixed and variable pixel image data during printing. The method includes steps for forming a mark symbol sequence from an encoded combination number which is composed of at least a first number (sum of all postage values since the last reloading date), an optional second number added to said first number, a third number (postage value) and a fourth number (of the serial number), and for enabling a check of the security imprint by a postal authority. Manipulations can be recognized using further data stored and/or calculated in a remote data center. An arrangement conducting a for check includes a mark reader composed of a CCD line camera, a D/A converter, a comparator and an encoder which are connected via an input/output unit to an input unit.

Abstract: A method including:providing a facility with at least one controlled access electronic printing machine;printing original documents with the controlled access electronic printing machine, wherein printed images formed thereby arise from marking materials containing at least one photoactive additive;equipping all uncontrolled access reprographic devices within the facility with a secure illumination source capable of exposing an object document with sufficient intensity to activate the photoactive additive; andilluminating the object document with the secure illumination source of the uncontrolled access reprographic device, wherein the object documents having original document images printed thereon cannot be copied or scanned in a normal copy or scan illumination interval.

Abstract: An authentication system comprising a medium having a plurality of elements, the elements being distinctive, detectable and disposed in an irregular pattern or having an intrinsic irregularity. Each element is characterized by a determinable attribute distinct from a two-dimensional coordinate representation of simple optical absorption or simple optical reflection intensity. An attribute and position of the plurality of elements, with respect to a positional reference is detected. A processor generates an encrypted message including at least a portion of the attribute and position of the plurality of elements. The encrypted message is recorded in physical association with the medium. The elements are preferably dichroic fibers, and the attribute is preferably a polarization or dichroic axis, which may vary over the length of a fiber.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for providing media-independent security for a document may be programmed to create a document file having two or more components. In one embodiment, a document may include a background object, an image object (e.g. text, graphic, both, or the like), and a watermark object. When output, the image object is directly interpretable by a user. Meanwhile, in the background object, watermark object, or both, a high-resolution pattern may be stored to be output with all copies of the document. Encoded in some binary symbol in the pattern is security data. Resolution is high enough that the binary symbols are undetectable by a human eye. A processor may be programmed to recognize (e.g. read) the pattern, decode the pattern into binary data, and decode the binary data to characters directly interpretable by a user. Information relating to creation and control of a document, signature, or the like, may all be encoded independent from the principal image (e.g.

Abstract: A method for checking a security imprint in a postage meter machine having a microprocessor includes the steps of encoding data for a security mark pixel image and inserts the encoded data into the remaining, fixed and variable pixel image data during printing. The method includes steps for forming a mark symbol sequence from an encoded combination number which is composed of at least a first number (sum of all postage values since the last reloading date), an optional second number added to said first number, a third number (postage value) and a fourth number (of the serial number), and for enabling a check of the security imprint by a postal authority. Manipulatons can be recognized using further data stored and/or calculated in a remote data center. An arrangement conducting a for check includes a mark reader composed of a CCD line camera, a D/A converter, a comparator and an encoder which are connected via an input/output unit to an input unit.

Abstract: A postage meter that is contained in a kiosk may be used to produce verifiable receipts for commercial transactions. The imbedded digital metering cryptographic technology that is contained in a postage meter may be used to produce a verifiable receipt. Several of the collected "commercial" transaction data elements are presented to the existing meter encryption module for processing as the meter was processing an envelope. The output encrypted data string is used as a new field in the receipt. Assuring that the receipt is authentic. Verification can be performed as follows: using the printed receipt as a source of data (at some later time) periodically on the archived records stored in the kiosk during the day on the uploaded "order" files before actual processing.

Abstract: Disclosed is a software implemented device and method for examining, verifying, correcting and approving electronically-recorded documents, prior to their final output, whether printing, transmission or recording. The disclosed device and method permits the user to assure that the diverse elements of the composite file, such as text, fonts, graphic formats, layout instructions and the like, which may exist in one or more electronic files, will be accessible by, and compatible with the output device. The present embodiment is able to assemble all elements of an electronic file, group of files or an electronic document into one location, whether physical or logical. The present embodiment also allows the above-described analysis on a multiplicity of file types, without need to use the specific file-creation applications used to create the files.

Abstract: A method, system, and product for communicating data text messages, such as E-Mail, between computers connected to a network while providing selectable degrees of security for each message. The methodology comprises the procedure of creating in the originating computer a data message having a header which specifies, in addition to the address of the intended recipient computer, one or more security parameters which control the processing of the data message in the recipient computer. The security parameters include instructions for erasure of the data message following its storage in the recipient computer. The security parameters also include instructions as to whether or not copying, archiving, forwarding and printing of the data message is permitted. The recipient computer processes the data message in accord with the instructions. The erasure is of such a nature as to render the data message irretrievable following erasure.

Abstract: The invention provides a method of and system for secure application of seals. An optical image of a seal is recorded by a computer and encrypted using a key for encryption generated in response to template biometric data from authorized persons. When a person seeks to use the seal, for example to apply the seal to a document, test biometric data is input from that person and used to generate a key for decryption. If the test biometric data matches the template biometric data, the key for decryption will be useful for decrypting the encrypted seal, and the person seeking access to the seal. The test biometric data represents a handwritten signature given contemporaneously by the person seeking access, and is verified against a set of template signatures earlier given by at least one authorized person. Specific signature features are determined in response to the template signatures and used for generating one or more keys for encrypting the seal.

Abstract: A method for checking a security imprint in a postage meter machine having a microprocessor includes the steps of encoding data for a security mark pixel image and inserts the encoded data into the remaining, fixed and variable pixel image data during printing. The method includes steps for forming a mark symbol sequence from an encoded combination number which is composed of at least a first number (sum of all postage values since the last reloading date), an optional second number added to said first number, a third number (postage value) and a fourth number (of the serial number), and for enabling a check of the security imprint by a postal authority. Manipulations can be recognized using further data stored and/or calculated in a remote data center. An arrangement conducting a for check includes a mark reader composed of a CCD line camera, a D/A converter, a comparator and an encoder which are connected via an input/output unit to an input unit.

Abstract: Methods and systems for preparing mailpieces involve the creation of mailing lists which includes correct and incorrect recipient address information. The list is transmitted to a data center. Received from the data center is a mailing list including addressed hygiened recipient address information and a digital token for each mailpiece with encrypted data. The encrypted data is based on the corrected address information for mailpieces with correct address information on the transmitted mailing list and on hygiened recipient address information the mailpieces with incorrect recipient address information on the transmitted mailing list. The digital tokens for each mailpiece may also be based on the rating parameter information.Selection is provided for utilizing a given one of the incorrect recipient address information and the correct recipient address information is applied to an encrypter generating the digital tokens.

Abstract: A secure system for Authentication information. The system includes a scanner for reading the information contained in a document, a timing mechanism for entering the time the document was read, an encryptor for encrypting the read and timed information and a counter for counting the number of documents processed.

Abstract: A method of identifying a franking machine used to print franking impressions is disclosed. Ink used by the franking machine contains an identification tag unique to each franking machine, or to a group of franking machines, and the impression printed by the franking machine is sensed to determine the identity of the tag and hence to determine the identity of the franking machine used to print the impression. The tag may be chemically unique or may be physically unique. The physically unique tag may have a unique shape or size or may bear a unique marking.

Abstract: Disclosed is a process which comprises (a) applying to a recording sheet a marking material comprising a Raman-detectable component which, when irradiated with monochromatic radiation, exhibits a detectable Raman spectrum, thereby forming a mark on the recording sheet; (b) irradiating the mark on the recording sheet with monochromatic radiation; and (c) measuring the Raman spectrum of radiation scattered from the mark when the mark is irradiated with monochromatic radiation.

Abstract: A system and method are provided for facilitating proof that a specific item, such as a document, has been sent via a communication medium, such as the mail service of the United States Postal Service, at a specific time. A bit map image is produced, such as by scanning a hard copy document. Preferably the bit map is compressed into a data string and hashed. The hash file is signed by a certifying authority, such as the USPS, using an existentially unforgeable signature scheme. The original document, a code representation of the string, and a code representation of the signature are sent via the communication medium. As a result, the combination of materials sent provides proof of the authenticity of the content of the document.

Abstract: A system and process for guaranteeing the signatures on securities to be transferred, comprising an electronic storage medium adapted to generate a profile of an individual guarantor enrolled in a signature guarantee program. The profile is divided into fields which can be sorted and used to generate all program documents and reports related to each guarantor. The storage medium maintains lists of qualified guarantors for access by transfer agents. A medallion(s) is issued to each guarantor, carrying information to identify the guarantor. Application of the medallion to a security notifies a transfer agent that the signature authorizing the transfer of the security is valid and in conformance with the law as set forth in the Uniform Commercial Code of the United States. A communications system is connected to the database and is adapted to transmit information from a selected profile in the database to a manufacturer for shipment of an individualized medallion directly to a guarantor.

Abstract: A scanner constructed to prevent illicit post-scan modification of a data set. The data set is a representation of visual images printed on a document scanned by the scanner. To prevent illicit post-scan modification, the scanner produces a digital signature which is output in combination with the data set. This virtually ensures detection of any post-scan modification of the data set.

Abstract: A method for ensuring for each postage transaction in a postage meter having a vault subsystem and a printing subsystem that debiting occurs prior to printing of a postal indicia includes authenticating the postage transaction as being valid, performing debiting within the vault subsytem, sending an encrypted debit certificate from the vault subsystem to the printing subsytem, independently recreating the encrypted debit certificate in the printing subsystem, comparing the encrypted debit certificate to the recreated encrypted debit certificate to ascertain if a predetermined relationship exists therebetween, and initiating printing of the postal indicia only upon determination of the existence of the predetermined relationship. An apparatus incorporates the method.