U.S. patent application number 13/171314 was filed with the patent office on 2011-10-20 for apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or communication device wallet.
Invention is credited to Alexander I. Poltorak.
Application Number | 20110258114 13/171314 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 32926484 |
Filed Date | 2011-10-20 |
United States Patent
Application |
20110258114 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Poltorak; Alexander I. |
October 20, 2011 |
APPARATUS AND METHOD FOR AN ELECTRONIC TELEPHONE WALLET AND/OR
COMMUNICATION DEVICE WALLET
Abstract
An apparatus and method for providing an electronic wallet
device, including a memory device for storing payment identifier
information associated with an account holder, a processing device
for processing a payment command, wherein the processing device
retrieves the payment identifier information from the memory
device, and a transmitter for transmitting the payment identifier
information to a merchant computer, wherein the merchant computer
is associated with a merchant, and further wherein the payment
identifier information is utilized in a transaction with the
merchant.
Inventors: |
Poltorak; Alexander I.;
(Monsey, NY) |
Family ID: |
32926484 |
Appl. No.: |
13/171314 |
Filed: |
June 28, 2011 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
10378409 |
Mar 3, 2003 |
7996268 |
|
|
13171314 |
|
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
705/39 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 30/0601 20130101;
G06Q 20/10 20130101; G06Q 30/0641 20130101; G06Q 20/202 20130101;
G07F 7/02 20130101; G06Q 20/3433 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/39 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 40/00 20060101
G06Q040/00 |
Claims
1. A method of electronic commerce, the method comprising: storing
a first pre-specified payment identifier of a first user at a
storage device of a central processing computer; receiving by the
central processing computer from a first remote communication
device a first payment command; retrieving, in response to
receiving the first payment command by the central processing
computer, the first pre-specified payment identifier of the first
user from the storage device; and transmitting to a first merchant
computer of a first merchant, by the central processing computer,
the first pre-specified payment identifier retrieved from the
storage device, whereby the first user is enabled to request the
central processing computer to provide the first pre-specified
payment identifier to the first merchant computer; wherein the
central processing computer is configured to enable the first user
to cause a payment corresponding to the first payment command to be
made to the first merchant for processing a first transaction (1)
without storing the first pre-specified payment identifier at the
first remote communication device, and (2) without the first user
providing the first pre-specified payment identifier to the central
processing computer through the first remote communication
device.
2. The method of claim 1, wherein: the first transaction comprises
a purchase of a first subject of transaction by the first user, the
first subject of transaction being a good or a service, the method
further comprising: consummating the first transaction between the
first user and the first merchant.
3. The method of claim 2, further comprising receiving by the
central processing computer from the first remote communication
device order information associated with the first transaction.
4. The method of claim 2, wherein the remote communication device
is a wireless communication device.
5. The method of claim 2, wherein the remote communication device
comprises a telephone.
6. The method of claim 2, further comprising storing a second
pre-specified payment identifier of the first user at the storage
device of the central processing computer.
7. The method of claim 6, further comprising: receiving by the
central processing computer from a selected remote communication
device of the first user a second payment command; retrieving, in
response to receiving the second payment command by the central
processing computer, the second pre-specified payment identifier of
the first user from the storage device; transmitting to a selected
merchant computer of a selected merchant, by the central processing
computer, the second pre-specified payment identifier retrieved
from the storage device, whereby the first user is enabled to
request the central processing computer to provide the second
pre-specified payment identifier to the selected merchant computer;
and consummating a second transaction between the first user and
the selected merchant.
8. The method of claim 7, wherein the selected merchant is a second
merchant, the second merchant being different from the first
merchant, and the selected merchant computer is a merchant computer
of the second merchant, the selected merchant computer being
different from the first merchant computer.
9. The method of claim 7, wherein the selected merchant is the
first merchant, and the selected merchant computer is the first
merchant computer.
10. The method of claim 2, further comprising: receiving by the
central processing computer from a selected remote communication
device of the first user a second payment command; retrieving, in
response to receiving the second payment command by the central
processing computer, the first pre-specified payment identifier of
the first user from the storage device; transmitting to a selected
merchant computer of a selected merchant, by the central processing
computer, the second pre-specified payment identifier retrieved
from the storage device, whereby the first user is enabled to
request the central processing computer to provide the first
pre-specified payment identifier to the selected merchant computer;
and consummating a second transaction between the first user and
the selected merchant.
11. The method of claim 10, wherein the selected merchant is a
second merchant, the second merchant being different from the first
merchant, and the selected merchant computer is a merchant computer
of the second merchant, the selected merchant computer being
different from the first merchant computer.
12. The method of claim 10, wherein the selected merchant is the
first merchant, and the selected merchant computer is the first
merchant computer.
13. The method of claim 2, further comprising: storing a second
pre-specified payment identifier of a second user at the storage
device of the central processing computer; receiving by the central
processing computer from a remote communication device of the
second user a second payment command; retrieving, in response to
receiving the second payment command by the central processing
computer, the second pre-specified payment identifier of the second
user from the storage device; transmitting to a selected merchant
computer of a selected merchant, by the central processing
computer, the second pre-specified payment identifier retrieved
from the storage device, whereby the second user is enabled to
request the central processing computer to provide the second
pre-specified payment identifier to the selected merchant computer;
and consummating a second transaction between the second user and
the selected merchant; wherein the central processing computer is
configured to enable the second user to cause a payment
corresponding to the second payment command to be made to the
selected merchant for processing the second transaction without
storing the second pre-specified payment identifier at the remote
communication device of the second user.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the selected merchant is a
second merchant, the second merchant being different from the first
merchant, and the selected merchant computer is a merchant computer
of the second merchant, the selected merchant computer being
different from the first merchant computer.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein the selected merchant is the
first merchant, and the selected merchant computer is the first
merchant computer.
16. The method of claim 2, wherein the first pre-specified payment
identifier comprises an account number of the first user, the
account number being selected from the group consisting of a credit
account number and a debit account number.
17. The method of claim 2, wherein the first pre-specified payment
identifier comprises expiration date of an account of the first
user.
18. The method of claim 2, wherein the first pre-specified payment
identifier comprises confidential information used to verify
identity of the first user.
19. The method of claim 18, wherein the confidential information
comprises mother's maiden name of the first user.
20. The method of claim 18, wherein the confidential information
comprises a password.
21. The method of claim 2, wherein each of the steps of receiving
and transmitting is performed at least in part over the
Internet.
22. The method of claim 2, wherein each of the steps of receiving
and transmitting is performed at least in part over a satellite
communication network.
23. The method of claim 2, wherein each of the steps of receiving
and transmitting is performed at least in part over a wireless
communication network.
24. The method of claim 2, further comprising storing at the
central processing computer information regarding the first
merchant and at least one other merchant.
25. A processing computer comprising: a storage device; and a
processing device coupled to the storage device; wherein the
processing computer is configured to perform steps of a method of
electronic commerce, the method comprising: storing a first
pre-specified payment identifier of a first user at a storage
device of a central processing computer; receiving by the central
processing computer from a remote communication device of the first
user a first payment command; retrieving, in response to receiving
the first payment command by the central processing computer, the
first pre-specified payment identifier of the first user from the
storage device; transmitting to a first merchant computer of a
first merchant, by the central processing computer, the first
pre-specified payment identifier retrieved from the storage device,
whereby the first user is enabled to request the central processing
computer to provide the first pre-specified payment identifier to
the first merchant computer; and consummating a first transaction
between the first user and the first merchant; wherein the central
processing computer is configured to enable the first user to cause
a payment corresponding to the first payment command to be made to
the first merchant for processing the first transaction (1) without
storing the first pre-specified payment identifier at the remote
communication device of the first user, and (2) without the first
user providing the first pre-specified payment identifier to the
central processing computer through the remote communication device
of the first user.
26. The processing computer of claim 25, further comprising: a
receiver coupled to the processor, wherein the processing computer
is further configured to perform the step of receiving through the
receiver; and a transmitter coupled to the processor, wherein the
processing computer is further configured to perform the step of
transmitting through the transmitter.
27. A processing computer comprising: a means for storing; and a
means for processing coupled to the means for storing; wherein the
processing computer is configured to perform steps of a method of
electronic commerce, the method comprising: storing a first
pre-specified payment identifier of a first user at the means for
storing of the processing computer; receiving by the processing
computer from a remote communication device of the first user a
first payment command; retrieving, in response to receiving the
first payment command by the processing computer, the first
pre-specified payment identifier of the first user from the means
for storing; transmitting to a first merchant computer of a first
merchant, by the processing computer, the first pre-specified
payment identifier retrieved from the means for storing, whereby
the first user is enabled to request the processing computer to
provide the first pre-specified payment identifier to the first
merchant computer; and consummating a first transaction between the
first user and the first merchant; wherein the processing computer
is configured to enable the first user to cause a payment
corresponding to the first payment command to be made to the first
merchant for processing the first transaction (1) without storing
the first pre-specified payment identifier at the remote
communication device of the first user, and (2) without the first
user providing the first pre-specified payment identifier to the
processing computer through the remote communication device of the
first user.
28. A memory device storing software for performing a method of
electronic commerce at a central processing computer, the method
comprising steps of: storing a first pre-specified payment
identifier of a first user at a storage device of the central
processing computer; receiving by the central processing computer
from a remote communication device of the first user a first
payment command; retrieving, in response to receiving the first
payment command by the central processing computer, the first
pre-specified payment identifier of the first user from the storage
device; transmitting to a first merchant computer of a first
merchant, by the central processing computer, the first
pre-specified payment identifier retrieved from the storage device,
whereby the first user is enabled to request the central processing
computer to provide the first pre-specified payment identifier to
the first merchant computer; and consummating a first transaction
between the first user and the first merchant; wherein the central
processing computer is configured to enable the first user to cause
a payment corresponding to the first payment command to be made to
the first merchant for processing the first transaction (1) without
storing the first pre-specified payment identifier at the remote
communication device of the first user, and (2) without the first
user providing the first pre-specified payment identifier to the
central processing computer through the remote communication device
of the first user.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention pertains to an apparatus and method
for an electronic telephone wallet and/or communication device
wallet and, in particular, to an apparatus-and method for an
electronic telephone wallet and/or communication device wallet
which can be utilized in order to store payment identifier
information for utilization in a transaction.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Many individuals have come to enjoy the convenience and
efficiency of making purchases and/or engaging in transactions via
a telephone or communication device. Typically, these transactions
take place from a location remote from a merchant or store and
involve use of a payment means or payment identifier other than
cash or physical currency.
[0003] For example, an individual making a purchase from a merchant
via a telephone or computer typically may be asked to provide a
credit card number and/or expiration date, a charge card number
and/or expiration date, and/or a debit card number and/or
expiration date. The individual, in some instances, may also be
asked to verify personal information such as his or her billing
address and/or mailing address.
[0004] Providing the above payment identifier information or other
personal information can be inconvenient and can, in some
instances, create security concerns. The individual may also have
to key in or enter any needed information without making a mistake
for each transaction. Further, the repeated providing of the above
information can lead to an increased probability that the
information may be misused and/or misappropriated.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0005] The present invention pertains to an apparatus and method
for an electronic telephone wallet and/or communication device
wallet which overcomes the shortfalls of the prior art. The present
invention provides an apparatus and method for an electronic
telephone wallet and/or communication device wallet which can be
utilized in order to store payment identifier information for
utilization in a transaction.
[0006] The present invention provides an electronic telephone
wallet and/or communication device wallet which can be utilized to
store payment identifier information which can be utilized in a
transaction with a merchant. The payment identifier information can
include any one or more of a credit card number, a credit account
number, a charge card number, a charge account number, a debit card
number, and/or a debit account number. The payment identifier
information can also include an expiration date(s) associated with
any of the above-described credit cards, charge cards, debit cards,
credit accounts, charge accounts, and/or debit accounts.
[0007] The payment identifier information can also include
information regarding an account holder which can include any one
or more of an account holder's name or other identification
information, an account holder's address, an account holder's
residence information, an account holder's business address
information, an account holder's telephone number, a telephone
number corresponding to the communication account in conjunction
with which the communication device is utilized, an account
holder's e-mail address, an account holder's zip code, an account
holder's mother's maiden name information, a password, a security
code, and/or any other identification information which can be
utilized in order to provide for account security for an account
utilized for payment in a transaction.
[0008] The present invention can also be utilized in order to
provide payment identifier information to a merchant computer
during a transaction involving a good or a service and/or a
purchase of a good or a service. The payment identifier information
can then be utilized by the merchant computer in processing the
transaction information and/or in consummating the transaction.
[0009] The present invention can also be utilized in conjunction
with a central processing computer wherein the payment identifier
information can be stored at the central processing computer. A
user or account holder can access the central processing computer,
at any time prior to, during, or subsequent to, a transaction with
a merchant computer, in order to effectuate a transmission of the
payment identifier information to the merchant computer. The
present invention can also be utilized in order to enable a user or
account holder to engage in a transaction with a merchant with any
telephone or communication device which may or may not have payment
identifier information stored therein or thereat.
[0010] The apparatus of the present invention includes a
communication device which is associated with a user or account
holder utilizing the present invention. The communication device
can be a telephone, a line-connected telephone, a cordless
telephone, a wireless telephone, a cellular telephone, a personal
communications services (PCS) device, a computer, a personal
computer, a laptop computer, a notebook computer, a hand-held
computer, a personal digital assistant, and/or any other personal
communication device.
[0011] The apparatus of the present invention can also include any
number of merchant computers. The merchant computer(s) can be
associated with any goods provider and/or services provider. The
merchant computer can be utilized in order to process transactions
involving any goods and/or services provided by a merchant.
[0012] The merchant computer can be any suitable computer, computer
system, central processing computer, server, server computer,
Internet server computer, and/or network computer.
[0013] The communication device can transmit signals and/or
information to the merchant computer(s). The communication device
can also receive signals and/or information from the merchant
computer(s).
[0014] The present invention can be utilized on, over, and/or in
conjunction with, any suitable communication network or system,
including, but not limited to, a telecommunication network, the
Internet, the World Wide Web, an RF signal communication network, a
satellite communication network, an optical communication network,
a public switched telephone network, a digital communication
network, a personal communications services (PCS) communication
network, a wireless communication network, and/or any other
communication network or system, and/or any combination of
same.
[0015] The communication device can include a central processing
unit (CPU), communication equipment for providing the communication
capabilities of the respective communication device, a read only
memory (ROM) device(s), and a random access memory (RAM) device(s).
The communication device can also include a user input device, a
display device and an output device.
[0016] The communication device can also include a database(s)
which can contain any and/or all of the data and/or information
which may be needed and/or desired in performing any of the
processing routines and/or functionality described herein as being
provided by the present invention.
[0017] The database can contain information regarding an account
holder which can include any one or more of an account holder's
name or other identification information, an account holder's
address, an account holder's residence information, an account
holder's business address information, an account holder's
telephone number, telephone number corresponding to the
communication account in conjunction with which the communication
device is utilized, an account holder's e-mail address, an account
holder's zip code, an account holder's mother's maiden name
information, a password, a security code, and/or any other
identification information which can be utilized in order to
provide for account security for an account utilized for payment in
a transaction.
[0018] The database can also contain payment identifier information
for each credit card account, credit account, charge card account,
charge account, debit card account, and/or debit account,
including, but not limited to, account number, account expiration
date, account security code, account personal identification
number, account usage password, and/or account usage security
code.
[0019] The database can also include information regarding any
number of merchants including, but not limited to, merchant name,
merchant address, merchant telephone number, merchant web site
address, merchant e-mail address, etc. The database can also
contain a telephone number(s), password information, personal
identification information, security code information, and/or any
other information for accessing and/or utilizing a central
processing computer which can be utilized to store, utilize, and/or
transmit, payment identifier information to a respective merchant
computer for, or on behalf of, the user or account holder.
[0020] The database can also contain any software, software
programs, and/or algorithms, for performing any of the processing
routines and/or functionality described herein as being performed
by the present invention.
[0021] The communication device can also include a transmitter for
transmitting data and/or information to any one or more of the
merchant computers. The communication device can also include a
receiver for receiving data and/or information and/or a request for
data and/or information, from any one or more of the merchant
computer(s).
[0022] The present invention can be utilized in order to facilitate
any one or more of a credit card purchase, a charge card purchase,
and/or a debit card purchase, via a communication device. The
payment identifier information can include any one or more of a
credit card number, a credit account number, a charge card number,
a charge account number, a debit card number, and/or a debit
account number. The payment identifier information can also include
any applicable expiration date information for the respective
account.
[0023] The payment identifier information can also include
information regarding an account holder which can include any one
or more of an account holder's name or other identification
information, an account holder's address, an account holder's
residence information, an account holder's business address
information, an account holder's telephone number, telephone number
corresponding to the communication account in conjunction with
which the communication device is utilized, an account holder's
e-mail address, an account holder's zip code, an account holder's
mother's maiden name information, a password, a security code,
and/or any other identification information which can be utilized
in order to provide for account security for an account utilized
for payment in a transaction.
[0024] The present invention can be utilized in order to transmit
the pertinent payment identifier information from the communication
device to a merchant computer during a transaction involving a good
or a service and/or a purchase of a good or a service. The payment
identifier information can then be utilized by the merchant
computer in processing the transaction information and/or in
consummating the transaction.
[0025] The merchant computer can receive and process the payment
identifier information in conjunction with information regarding
the corresponding transaction. In this manner, the present
invention can be utilized in order to dispense with the need for a
user or account holder having to enter and/or input payment
identifier information into the communication device.
[0026] The user or account holder can manually enter a command into
the communication device in order to transmit the payment
identifier information to the merchant computer and/or the
communication device can be programmed to automatically transmit
the payment identifier information to the merchant computer.
[0027] The payment identifier information which is transmitted from
the communication device to the merchant computer can, for example,
include a user's name, credit account number, charge account
expiration date, mailing address, security code, and/or any other
payment identifier information.
[0028] The apparatus of the present invention can also be utilized
in conjunction with, and can include, a central processing computer
wherein the central processing computer can store payment
identifier information for any number of accounts and for any
number of users or account holders. A user or account holder can
utilize the apparatus and method of the present invention from a
home phone or home communication device so as to ensure enhanced
security for the transaction. The user or account holder can also
utilize the present invention when using a telephone other than a
home phone or home communication device, such as, for example, a
public telephone, a public computer, and/or a third party telephone
or third party communication device.
[0029] The user or account holder can also utilize the central
processing computer in order to access and/or to provide his or her
payment identifier information during a transaction. The central
processing computer can also transmit the payment identifier
information to a merchant computer for, or on behalf of, the user
or account holder.
[0030] The central processing computer can be a telephone company
computer, a telephone company central processing computer, a
central switching or call processing computer, a communication
company computer, a communication company central processing
computer, and/or a central switching or communication processing
computer, which can process respective telephone calls or
communication transactions.
[0031] The central processing computer can also be a mailbox-type
processing computer which can be accessed by the communication
device in order to obtain any of the payment identifier information
and/or security information described herein.
[0032] The central processing computer can also be any suitable
computer, computer system, central communication device, server,
server computer, Internet server computer, and/or network
computer.
[0033] The communication device can transmit signals and/or
information to the central processing computer as well as receive
signals and/or information from the central processing computer.
The communication device can also transmit signals and/or
information to the merchant computer as well as receive signals
and/or information from the merchant computer. The central
processing computer can also transmit signals and/or information to
the merchant computer as well as receive signals and/or information
from the merchant computer.
[0034] The central processing computer can include a central
processing unit (CPU), a read only memory (ROM) device(s), a random
access memory device(s) (RAM), an input device and a display
device. The central processing computer can also include an output
device.
[0035] The central processing computer can also include a
database(s) which can contain any and/or all of the data and/or
information which may be needed and/or desired in performing any of
the processing routines and/or functionality described herein as
being provided by the apparatus and method of the present
invention.
[0036] The central processing computer database can also contain
information regarding any number of account holders. The account
holder information can include any one or more of an account
holder's name or other identification information, an account
holder's address, an account holder's residence information, an
account holder's business address information, an account holder's
telephone number, telephone number corresponding to the
communication account in conjunction with which the communication
device is utilized, an account holder's e-mail address, an account
holder's zip code, an account holder's mother's maiden name
information, a password, a security code, and/or any other
identification information which can be utilized in order to
provide for account security for an account utilized for payment in
a transaction.
[0037] The central processing computer database can also contain
payment identifier information for each credit card account, credit
account, charge card account, charge account, debit card account,
and/or debit account, including, but not limited to, account
number, account expiration date, account security code, account
personal identification number, account usage password, and/or
account usage security code, for any number and/or types of
accounts and for any number of users or account holders.
[0038] The central processing computer database can also include
information regarding any number of merchants in conjunction with
which the present invention can be utilized including, but not
limited to, merchant name, merchant address, merchant telephone
number, merchant web site address, merchant e-mail address, etc.
The central processing computer database can also contain a
telephone number(s), password information, personal identification
information, security code information, and/or any other
information for accessing and/or utilizing a central processing
computer which can be utilized to store, utilize, and/or transmit,
payment identifier information to any respective merchant computer
for, or on behalf of, the user or account holder.
[0039] The central processing computer database can also contain
any software, software programs, and/or algorithms, for performing
any of the processing routines and/or functionality described
herein as being performed by the central processing computer and/or
the present invention.
[0040] The central processing computer can also include a
transmitter for transmitting data and/or information to any one or
more of the merchant computers and/or to any of the communication
devices. The central processing computer can also include a
receiver for receiving data and/or information from any one or more
of the communication devices and/or merchant computer(s).
[0041] The present invention can be utilized in conjunction with
the central processing computer in order to facilitate any one or
more of a credit card purchase, a charge card purchase, and/or a
debit card purchase, from a communication device.
[0042] The present invention can also be utilized in order to
transmit a payment command signal from a communication device to a
central processing computer during a transaction involving a good
or a service and/or a purchase of a good or a service. The central
processing computer can then identify the pertinent payment
identifier information and transmit the payment identifier
information to the merchant computer. The payment identifier
information can then be utilized by the merchant computer in
processing the transaction information and/or in consummating the
transaction.
[0043] The central processing computer can be employed in
conjunction with the communication device in order to introduce an
additional layer of security into the transaction. The central
processing computer can also be employed by a user or account
holder who may desire to engage in a transaction with a merchant
from a telephone or communication device which is not his or her
communication device.
[0044] The merchant computer can process the payment identifier
information received from the central processing computer in
conjunction with information regarding the corresponding
transaction. In this manner, the present invention can dispense
with the need for a user or account holder to have to use his or
her communication device during the transaction and/or dispenses
with the need for a user or account holder having to enter and/or
input payment identifier information into the communication
device.
[0045] The user or account holder can manually enter a payment
command into the communication device and transmit same to the
central processing computer. The central processing computer can
thereafter transmit any pertinent payment identifier information to
the merchant computer. The central processing computer can also be
programmed to automatically transmit the payment identifier
information to the merchant computer.
[0046] The payment identifier information transmitted from the
central processing computer to the merchant computer can include a
user's name, an account number, an account expiration date, a
mailing address, a security code, and/or any other payment
identifier information.
[0047] Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet
and/or communication device wallet.
[0048] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in order to store
and/or provide payment identifier information.
[0049] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet
and/or communication device wallet which can be utilized in order
to store payment identifier information for utilization in a
transaction.
[0050] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in order to
provide payment identifier information for utilization in a
transaction.
[0051] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in order to store
and/or provide payment identifier information for utilization in a
transaction with a merchant.
[0052] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet
and/or communication device wallet which can be utilized in order
to store and/or provide payment identifier information for
utilization in a transaction involving a good or a service and/or a
purchase of a good or a service.
[0053] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in order to store
and/or provide payment identifier information which can be utilized
by a merchant computer in processing the transaction information
and/or in consummating the transaction.
[0054] It is another object of the present invention to Provide an
apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in conjunction
with a central processing computer.
[0055] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet
and/or communication device wallet which can be utilized in
conjunction with a central processing computer, wherein the payment
identifier information can be stored at the central processing
computer.
[0056] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in conjunction
with a central processing computer, wherein the central processing
computer can provide the payment identifier information to a
merchant computer.
[0057] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in order to
enable a user or account holder to engage in a transaction with a
merchant with any telephone or communication device.
[0058] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet
and/or communication device wallet which can be utilized in order
to enable a user or account holder to engage in a transaction with
a merchant via a third party telephone or a third party
communication device.
[0059] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in order to
enable a user or account holder to engage in a transaction with a
merchant with any telephone or communication device which may or
may not have payment identifier information stored therein or
thereat.
[0060] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized on, over, and/or
in conjunction with, a communication network or system.
[0061] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet
and/or communication device wallet which can be utilized on, over,
and/or in conjunction with, a telecommunication network, the
Internet, the World Wide Web, an RF signal communication network, a
satellite communication network, an optical communication network,
a public switched telephone network, a digital communication
network, a personal communications services (PCS) communication
network, a wireless communication network, and/or any other
communication network or system, and/or any combination of
same.
[0062] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in order to
facilitate any one or more of a credit card purchase, a credit
account purchase, a charge card purchase, a charge account
purchase, a debit card purchase, and/or a debit account purchase,
via a communication device.
[0063] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can dispense with the need for a
user or account holder having to enter and/or input payment
identifier information into a communication device.
[0064] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet
and/or communication device wallet which can allow a user or
account holder to manually enter a command into a communication
device for transmission to a merchant computer.
[0065] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be programmed to
automatically transmit payment identifier information to a merchant
computer.
[0066] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in order to
provide enhanced security for a transaction.
[0067] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet
and/or communication device wallet which can be utilized in
conjunction with a central processing computer which can transmit
payment identifier information to a merchant computer for, or on
behalf of, a user or account holder.
[0068] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
an apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in conjunction
with a central processing computer in order to facilitate any one
or more of a credit card purchase, a credit account purchase, a
charge card purchase, a charge account purchase, a debit card
purchase, and/or a debit account purchase, via a communication
device.
[0069] It is another object of the present invention to provide an
apparatus and method for an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized in conjunction
with a central processing computer, wherein the central processing
computer can be programmed to automatically transmit payment
identifier information to a merchant computer.
[0070] Other objects and advantages of the present invention will
be apparent to those skilled in the art upon a review of the
Description Of The Preferred Embodiments taken in conjunction with
the Drawings which follow.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0071] In the Drawings:
[0072] FIG. 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the apparatus
of the present invention, in block diagram form;
[0073] FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the
communication device of FIG. 1, in block diagram form;
[0074] FIG. 3 illustrates a preferred embodiment method for
utilizing the apparatus of the present invention, in flow diagram
form;
[0075] FIG. 4 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
apparatus of the present invention, in block diagram form;
[0076] FIG. 5 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the central
processing computer of FIG. 4, in block diagram form; and
[0077] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate another preferred embodiment
method for utilizing the apparatus of the present invention, in
flow diagram form.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMODIMENTS
[0078] The present invention pertains to an apparatus and method
for an electronic telephone wallet and/or communication device
wallet. The present invention provides an apparatus and method for
an electronic telephone wallet and/or communication device wallet
which can be utilized in order to store payment identifier
information for utilization in a transaction.
[0079] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of the
present invention provides an electronic telephone wallet and/or
communication device wallet which can be utilized to store payment
identifier information which can be utilized in a transaction with
a merchant. The payment identifier information can include any one
or more of a credit card number, a credit account number, a charge
card number, a charge account number, a debit card number, and/or a
debit account number. The payment identifier information can also
include an expiration date(s) associated with any of the
above-described credit cards, charge cards, debit cards, credit
accounts, charge accounts, and/or debit accounts.
[0080] The payment identifier information can also include
information regarding an account holder which can include any one
or more of an account holder's name or other identification
information, an account holder's address, an account holder's
residence information, an account holder's business address
information, an account holder's telephone number, a telephone
number corresponding to the communication account in conjunction
with which the communication device is utilized, an account
holder's e-mail address, an account holder's zip code, an account
holder's mother's maiden name information, a password, a security
code, and/or any other identification information which can be
utilized in order to provide for account security for an account
utilized for payment in a transaction.
[0081] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of the
present invention can be utilized in order to provide payment
identifier information to a merchant computer during a transaction
involving a good or a service and/or a purchase of a good or a
service. The payment identifier information can then be utilized by
the merchant computer in processing the transaction information
and/or in consummating the transaction.
[0082] In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of
the present invention can be utilized in conjunction with a central
processing computer wherein the payment identifier information can
be stored at the central processing computer. An account holder can
access the central processing computer, at any time prior to,
during, or subsequent to, a transaction with a merchant computer,
in order to effectuate a transmission of the payment identifier
information to the merchant computer. In this manner, the present
invention provided an apparatus and a method for enabling an
account holder to engage in a transaction with a merchant computer
with any telephone or communication device which may or may not
have payment identifier information stored therein or thereat.
[0083] FIG. 1 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the apparatus
of the present invention, which is designated generally by the
reference numeral 100, in block diagram form. With reference to
FIG. 1, the apparatus 100 includes a communication device 10 which
is associated with a user or an account holder who utilizes the
apparatus and method of the present invention.
[0084] In a preferred embodiment, the communication device can be a
telephone, a line-connected telephone, a cordless telephone, a
wireless telephone, a cellular telephone, and/or a personal
communications services (PCS) device. In another preferred
embodiment, the communication device 10 can be a computer, a
personal computer, a laptop computer, a notebook computer, a
hand-held computer, a personal digital assistant, and/or any other
personal communication device.
[0085] With reference to FIG. 1, the apparatus 100 can also include
any number of merchant computers 20. The merchant computer 20 can
be associated with any goods provider and/or services provider. The
merchant computer 20 can be utilized in order to process a
transaction involving any goods and/or services provided by a
merchant.
[0086] In a preferred embodiment, the merchant computer 20 can be
any suitable computer, computer system, central processing
computer, server, server computer, Internet server computer, and/or
network computer.
[0087] In a preferred embodiment, the communication device 10 can
transmit signals and/or information to the merchant computer(s) 20.
In a preferred embodiment, the communication device 10 can receive
signals and/or information from the merchant computer(s) 20. In
this manner, the communication device 10 and the merchant
computer(s) 20 can communicate with each other in a bi-directional
manner.
[0088] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus 100 and method of
the present invention can be utilized on, over, and/or in
conjunction with, any suitable communication network or system,
including, but not limited to, a telecommunication network, the
Internet, the World Wide Web, an RF signal communication network, a
satellite communication network, an optical communication network,
a public switched telephone network, a digital communication
network, a personal communications services (PCS) communication
network, a wireless communication network, and/or any other
communication network or system, and/or any combination of
same.
[0089] FIG. 2 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the
communication device 10 of FIG. 1, in block diagram form. With
reference to FIG. 2, the communication device 10 includes a central
processing unit (CPU) 10A which can perform any and all of the
processing routines and/or functionality described herein as being
provided by the communication device 10 and/or the apparatus 100 of
the present invention.
[0090] In a preferred embodiment, the communication device 10 can
also include communication equipment 108 for providing the
communication capabilities of the respective communication
device.
[0091] In a preferred embodiment, wherein the communication device
20 is a telephone, a line-connected telephone, a cordless
telephone, a wireless telephone, a cellular telephone, and/or a
personal communications services (PCS) device, the communication
equipment 10B can include any of the respective telecommunication
devices and equipment, antennas, transmitters, receivers, dial
pads, input devices, microphones, speakers, displays, output
devices, power supplies, etc., typically found in telephones,
line-connected telephones, cordless telephones, wireless
telephones, cellular telephones, and/or personal communications
services (PCS) devices.
[0092] In another preferred embodiment, wherein the communication
device 20 is a computer, a personal computer, a laptop computer, a
notebook computer, a hand-held computer, and/or a personal digital
assistant, the communication equipment 10B can include the various
processing devices, memory devices, peripheral devices, input
devices, display devices, output devices, microphones, speakers,
modems, transmitters, receivers, and/or power supplies, typically
found in computers, personal computers, laptop computers, notebook
computers, hand-held computers, and/or personal digital
assistants.
[0093] With reference to FIG. 2, the communication device 10 can
also include a read only memory device(s) (ROM) 10C and a random
access memory device(s) (RAM) 10D, each of which is connected to
the central processing unit 10A.
[0094] The communication device 10 can also include a user input
device 10E, for entering data and/or commands into the
communication device 10, and which can include any one or more of a
keyboard, a scanner, a user pointing device, such as, for example,
a mouse, and/or a touch pad, which input device(s) 10E is also
connected to the central processing unit 10A. The communication
device 10 can also include a display device 10F for displaying data
and/or information to a user or account holder. The communication
device 10 can also include an output device 10G, such as a printer
or other output device for providing data and/or information to the
user or account holder.
[0095] The communication device 10 can also include a database(s)
10H which can contain any and/or all of the data and/or information
which may be needed and/or desired in performing any of the
processing routines and/or functionality described herein as being
provided by the apparatus and method of the present invention.
[0096] In a preferred embodiment, the database 10H can contain
information regarding an account holder which can include any one
or more of an account holder's name or other identification
information, an account holder's address, an account holder's
residence information, an account holder's business address
information, an account holder's telephone number, a telephone
number corresponding to the communication account in conjunction
with which the communication device is utilized, an account
holder's e-mail address, an account holder's zip code, an account
holder's mother's maiden name information, a password, a security
code, and/or any other identification information which can be
utilized in order to provide for account security for an account
utilized for payment in a transaction.
[0097] The database 10H, in the preferred embodiment, can also
contain payment identifier information for each credit card
account, credit account, charge card account, charge account, debit
card account, and/or debit account, including, but not limited to,
account number, account expiration date, account security code,
account personal identification number, account usage password,
and/or account usage security code.
[0098] The database 10H can also include information regarding any
number of merchants in conjunction with which the apparatus 100 and
method of the present invention can be utilized including, but not
limited to, merchant name, merchant address, merchant telephone
number, merchant web site address, and/or merchant e-mail address,
etc. The database 10H can also contain a telephone number(s),
password information, personal identification information, security
code information, and/or any other information for accessing and/or
utilizing a central processing computer, which can be utilized to
store, utilize, and/or transmit, payment identifier information to
any respective merchant computer 20 for, or on behalf of, the user
or account holder.
[0099] The database 10H can also contain any software, software
programs, and/or algorithms, for performing any of the processing
routines and/or functionality described herein as being performed
by the apparatus 100.
[0100] The communication device 10 can also include a transmitter
10I for transmitting data and/or information, including any of the
herein-described payment identifier information, and/or any other
information described herein as being provided by the communication
device 10, to any one or more of the herein-described merchant
computers 20. The transmitter 10I can also be connected to the CPU
10A.
[0101] The communication device 10 can also include a receiver 10J
for receiving data and/or information, and/or a request for data
and/or information, from any one or more of the herein-described
merchant computer(s) 20. The receiver 10J can also be connected to
the CPU 10A.
[0102] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of the
present invention can be utilized in order to facilitate any one or
more of a credit card purchase, a charge card purchase, and/or a
debit card purchase from a communication device 10 such as a
telephone, line-connected telephone, a cordless telephone, a
wireless telephone, a cellular telephone, a personal computer, a
personal digital assistant, and/or any other of the communication
devices 10 described herein and/or any equivalents thereof.
[0103] In a preferred embodiment, the payment identifier
information can include any one or more of a credit card number, a
credit account number, a charge card number, a charge account
number, a debit card number, a debit account number, and/or an
expiration date.
[0104] The payment identifier information can also include
information regarding an account holder which can include any one
or more of an account holder's name or other identification
information, an account holder's address, an account holder's
residence information, an account holder's business address
information, an account holder's telephone number, a telephone
number corresponding to the communication account in conjunction
with which the communication device is utilized, an account
holder's e-mail address, an account holder's zip code, an account
holder's mother's maiden name information, a password, a security
code, and/or any other identification information which can be
utilized in order to provide for account security for an account
utilized for payment in a transaction.
[0105] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of the
present invention can be utilized in order to transmit the
pertinent payment identifier information from the communication
device 10 to a merchant computer 20 during a transaction involving
a good or a service and/or a purchase of a good or a service. The
payment identifier information can then be utilized by the merchant
computer 20 in processing the transaction information and/or in
consummating the transaction.
[0106] In a preferred embodiment, the communication device 10 can
utilize a software program, an algorithm, and/or an applet, in
order to retrieve the pertinent payment identifier information from
the database 10H and to transmit same to the merchant computer
20.
[0107] The merchant computer 20 can receive and process the payment
identifier information in conjunction with information regarding
the corresponding transaction. In this manner, the apparatus and
method of the present invention dispenses with the need for a user
or account holder having to enter and/or input payment identifier
information into the communication device 10. In this manner, the
present invention can be utilized to provide an electronic
telephone wallet and/or a communication device wallet.
[0108] In a preferred embodiment, the user or account holder can
manually enter a payment command into the communication device 10.
The payment identifier information can then be transmitted from the
communication device 10 to the merchant computer 20. In another
preferred embodiment, the communication device 10 can be programmed
to automatically transmit the payment identifier information to the
merchant computer 20.
[0109] The payment identifier information which is transmitted from
the communication device 10 to the merchant computer 20 can, for
example, include a user's name, credit card number or credit
account number, credit card expiration date or credit account
expiration date, mailing address, security code, and/or any other
payment identifier information described herein. Payment identifier
information can also include a user's name, charge card number or
charge account number, charge card expiration date or charge
account expiration date, mailing address, security code, and/or any
other payment identifier information described herein. Payment
identifier information can also include a user's name, debit card
number or debit account number, debit card expiration date or debit
account expiration date, mailing address, security code, and/or any
other payment identifier information described herein.
[0110] FIG. 3 illustrates a preferred embodiment method for
utilizing the apparatus 100 of the present invention, in flow
diagram form. With reference to FIG. 3, the operation of the
apparatus 100 commences at step 300.
[0111] At step 301, the user or account holder can access the
merchant computer 20 with the communication device 10. At step 302,
the user or account holder can enter order information regarding
any good and/or service which he or she desires to order or
purchase, into the communication device 10. At step 302, the
communication device 10 can also process the entered order
information. At step 302, the communication device 10 can transmit
the order information to the merchant computer 20. At step 302, the
merchant computer 20 can receive and process the order
information.
[0112] At step 303, the user or account holder can enter payment
command information into the communication device 10. For example,
a user, at step 303, can select a method of payment (i.e. credit,
charge, debit, etc.) and an account which is to be utilized. At
step 304, the communication device 10 can process the payment
command information, identify the pertinent payment identifier
information, and retrieve the pertinent payment identifier
information from the database 10H. At step 304, the communication
device 10 can also transmit the payment identifier information to
the merchant computer 20.
[0113] At step 305, the merchant computer 20 can receive the
payment identifier information. At step 306, the merchant computer
20 can process the payment identifier information in conjunction
with processing and/or consummating the transaction. Thereafter,
the operation of the apparatus 100 will cease at step 307.
[0114] In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of
the present invention can be utilized in conjunction with a central
processing computer wherein the central processing computer can
store payment identifier information for any number of accounts and
for any number of users or account holders. In one preferred
embodiment, a user or account holder can utilize the apparatus and
method of the present invention with the communication device 10 so
as to ensure enhanced security for the transaction.
[0115] In another preferred embodiment, the user or account holder
can utilize the apparatus and method of the present invention with
a telephone or communication device such as, for example, a public
telephone, a public computer, and/or a third party telephone or
third party communication device.
[0116] In a preferred embodiment, wherein the apparatus of the
present invention is utilized in conjunction with a central
processing computer, a user or account holder can utilize the
central processing computer in order to access and provide his or
her payment identifier information to a merchant computer 20 during
a transaction. The central processing computer can transmit the
payment identifier information to a merchant computer 20 for, or on
behalf of, the user or account holder.
[0117] FIG. 4 illustrates another preferred embodiment of the
apparatus of the present invention, which is designated generally
by the reference numeral 200, in block diagram form. With reference
to FIG. 4, the apparatus 200 can include the communication
device(s) 10 and merchant computer(s) 20 described herein in
conjunction with the embodiment of FIG. 1.
[0118] The communication device 10 can be any one or more of the
communication devices described herein. In this regard, in a
preferred embodiment, the communication device 10 can be any one or
more of a telephone, a line-connected telephone, a cordless
telephone, a wireless telephone, a cellular telephone, a personal
communications services (PCS) device, a computer, a personal
computer, a laptop computer, a notebook computer, a hand-held
computer, and/or a personal digital assistant. In the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 4, the communication device 10 can include any
and/or all or the components described and illustrated in FIG.
2.
[0119] In a preferred embodiment, the merchant computer 20 of the
apparatus 200, can be any suitable computer, computer system,
central processing computer, server, server computer, Internet
server computer, and/or network computer.
[0120] With reference once again to FIG. 4, the apparatus 200 can
also include a central processing computer 30. In the preferred
embodiment of FIG. 4, the central processing computer 30 can be a
telephone company computer, a telephone company central processing
computer, a central switching or call processing computer, a
communication company computer, a communication company central
processing computer, and/or a central switching or communication
processing computer, which can process respective telephone calls
or communication transactions.
[0121] In another preferred embodiment, the central processing
computer 30 can be a mailbox-type processing computer which can be
accessed by the communication device 10 in order to obtain any of
the payment identifier information and/or security information
described herein.
[0122] In another preferred embodiment, the central processing
computer 30 can be any suitable computer, computer system, central
processing computer, server, server computer, Internet server
computer, and/or network computer.
[0123] In the preferred embodiment, the communication device 10 can
transmit signals and/or information to the central processing
computer 30 as well as receive signals and/or information from the
central processing computer 30. In the preferred embodiment, the
communication device 10 can also transmit signals and/or
information to the merchant computer 20 as well as receive signals
and/or information from the merchant computer 20. In the preferred
embodiment, the central processing computer 30 can also transmit
signals and/or information to the merchant computer 20 as well as
receive signals and/or information from the merchant computer
20.
[0124] In this manner, the communication device 10 and the central
processing computer 30 can communicate with each other in a
bi-directional manner. The communication device 10 and the merchant
computer 20 can communicate with each other in a bi-directional
manner. The merchant computer 20 and the central processing
computer 30 can also communicate with each other in a
bi-directional manner.
[0125] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus 200 and method of
the present invention can be utilized on, over, and/or in
conjunction with, any suitable communication network or system,
including, but not limited to, a telecommunication network, the
Internet, the World Wide Web, an RF signal communication network, a
satellite communication network, an optical communication network,
a public switched telephone network, a digital communication
network, a personal communications services (PCS) communication
network, a wireless communication network, and/or any other
communication network or system, and/or any combination of
same.
[0126] FIG. 5 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the central
processing computer 30 of FIG. 4, in block diagram form. With
reference to FIG. 5, the central processing computer 30 includes a
central processing unit (CPU) 30A which can perform any and all of
the processing routines and/or functionality described herein as
being provided by the central processing computer 30 and/or the
apparatus 200.
[0127] In a preferred embodiment, the central processing computer
30 can include a read only memory device(s) (ROM) 30B and a random
access memory device(s) (RAM) 30C, each of which is connected to
the central processing unit 30A.
[0128] The central processing computer 30 can also include an input
device 30D, for entering data and/or commands into the central
processing computer 30, and which can include any one or more of a
keyboard, a scanner, a user pointing device, such as, for example,
a mouse, and/or a touch pad, which input device(s) 30D is also
connected to the central processing unit 30A. The central
processing computer 30 can also include a display device 30E for
displaying data and/or information. The central processing computer
30 can also include an output device 30F, such as a printer or
other output device, for providing data and/or information to a
user or operator.
[0129] The central processing computer 30 can also include a
database(s) 30G which can contain any and/or all of the data and/or
information which may be needed and/or desired in performing any of
the processing routines and/or functionality described herein as
being provided by the apparatus and method of the present
invention.
[0130] In a preferred embodiment, the database 30G can contain
information regarding any number of account holders. The account
holder information can include any one or more of an account
holder's name or other identification information, an account
holder's address, an account holder's residence information, an
account holder's business address information, an account holder's
telephone number, a telephone number corresponding to the
communication account in conjunction with which the communication
device is utilized, an account holder's e-mail address, an account
holder's zip code, an account holder's mother's maiden name
information, a password, a security code, and/or any other
identification information which can be utilized in order to
provide for account security for an account utilized for payment in
a transaction.
[0131] The database 30G, in the preferred embodiment, can also
contain payment identifier information for each credit card
account, credit account, charge card account, charge account, debit
card account, and/or debit account, including, but not limited to,
account number, account expiration date, account security code,
account personal identification number, account usage password,
and/or account usage security code, for any number and/or types of
accounts and for any number of users or account holders.
[0132] The database 30G can also include information regarding any
number of merchants in conjunction with which the apparatus 200 and
method of the present invention can be utilized, including but not
limited to merchant name, merchant address, merchant telephone
number, merchant web site address, merchant e-mail address, etc.
The database 30G can also contain a telephone number(s), password
information, personal identification information, security code
information, and/or any other information for accessing and/or
utilizing the central processing computer 30, which can be utilized
to store, utilize, and/or transmit, payment identifier information
to any respective merchant computer 20 for, or on behalf of, the
user or account holder.
[0133] The database 30G can also contain any software, software
programs, and/or algorithms, for performing any of the processing
routines and/or functionality described herein as being performed
by the central processing computer 30 and/or the apparatus 200.
[0134] The central processing computer 30 can also include a
transmitter 30H for transmitting data and/or information, including
any of the herein-described payment identifier information, and/or
any other information, from the central processing computer 30 to
any one or more of the herein-described merchant computers 20. The
transmitter 30H can also transmit data and/or information to any of
the communication devices 10. The transmitter 30H can also be
connected to the CPU 30A.
[0135] The central processing computer 30 can also include a
receiver 301 for receiving data and/or information from any one or
more of the herein-described communication devices 10 and/or from
any one or more of the merchant computer(s) 20. The receiver 301
can also be connected to the CPU 30A.
[0136] In another preferred embodiment, the apparatus 200 and
method of the present invention can be utilized in conjunction with
the central processing computer 30 in order to facilitate any one
or more of a credit card-purchase, a credit account purchase, a
charge card purchase, a charge account purchase, a debit card
purchase, and/or a debit account purchase, from a communication
device 10 such as a telephone, a line-connected telephone, a
cordless telephone, a wireless telephone, a cellular telephone, a
personal computer, a personal digital assistant, and/or any of the
other communication devices 10 described herein.
[0137] As described herein, the payment identifier information can
include any one or more of a credit card number, a credit account
number, a charge card number, a charge account number, a debit card
number, a debit account number, and/or an expiration date.
[0138] The payment identifier information can also include
information regarding an account holder which can include any one
or more of an account holder's name or other identification
information, an account holder's address, an account holder's
residence information, an account holder's business address
information, an account holder's telephone number, a telephone
number corresponding to the communication account in conjunction
with which the communication device is utilized, an account
holder's e-mail address, an account holder's zip code, an account
holder's mother's maiden name information, a password, a security
code, and/or any other identification information which can be
utilized in order to provide for account security for an account
utilized for payment in a transaction.
[0139] In a preferred embodiment, the apparatus and method of the
present invention can be utilized in order to transmit a payment
command from a communication device 10 to a central processing
computer 30 during a transaction involving a good or a service
and/or a purchase of a good or a service. The central processing
computer 30 can then identify the pertinent payment identifier
information and transmit the payment identifier information to the
merchant computer 20. The payment identifier information can then
be utilized by the merchant computer 20 in processing the
transaction information and/or in consummating the transaction.
[0140] In a preferred embodiment, the central processing computer
30 can be utilized in conjunction with a communication device 10 in
order to provide an additional layer of security in the
transaction. In another preferred embodiment, the central
processing computer 30 can be utilized by a user or account holder
who my desire to engage in a transaction with a merchant from a
telephone or communication device which is not his or her
communication device 10. For example, a user or account holder can
use a telephone of a third party, a public telephone or kiosk, a
computer of another, and/or any other communication device which
may belong to a third party and/or which may not contain the user's
or account holder's payment identifier information.
[0141] In a preferred embodiment, the central processing computer
30 and/or the communication device 10 can utilize a software
program, an algorithm, or an applet, in order to retrieve the
pertinent payment identifier information from the respective
database 30G and/or 10H and transmit the payment identifier
information to the merchant computer 20.
[0142] The merchant computer 20 can receive and process the payment
identifier information in conjunction with information regarding
the corresponding transaction. In this manner, the apparatus and
method of the present invention dispenses with the need for a user
or account holder to have to use his or her communication device 10
during a transaction and/or dispenses with the need for a user or
account holder having to enter and/or input payment identifier
information into the communication device 10.
[0143] In a preferred embodiment, the user or account holder can
manually enter a payment command into the communication device 10
and transmit same to the central processing computer 30. The
central processing computer 30 can thereafter transmit any
pertinent payment identifier information to the merchant computer
20. In another preferred embodiment, the central processing
computer 30 can be programmed to automatically transmit the payment
identifier information to the merchant computer 20.
[0144] The payment identifier information which is transmitted from
the central processing computer 30 to the merchant computer 20 can,
for example, include any of the payment identifier information
described herein. For example, the payment identifier information
can include any one or more of a user's name, a credit, charge,
and/or debit, card number, a credit, charge, and/or debit, account
number, a respective card or account expiration date, a mailing
address, a security code, and/or any other payment identifier
information described herein.
[0145] FIGS. 6A and 6B illustrate another preferred embodiment
method for utilizing the apparatus 200 of the present invention, in
flow diagram form. With reference to FIGS. 6A and 6B, the operation
of the apparatus 200 commences at step 600.
[0146] At step 601, the user or account holder can access the
central processing computer 30 and/or the merchant computer 20 with
the communication device 10. In a preferred embodiment, the user or
account holder can also access the merchant computer 20 via the
central processing computer 30.
[0147] At step 602, the user or account holder can enter order
information, regarding any good or service which he or she desires
to order or purchase, into the communication device 10. At step
602, the communication device 10 can also process the order
information. At step 602, the communication device 10 can transmit
the order information to the merchant computer 20. In a preferred
embodiment, the order information can be transmitted to the
merchant computer 20 via the central processing computer 30. At
step 602, the merchant computer 20 can receive and process the
order information.
[0148] At step 603, the user or account holder can enter a payment
command and/or payment command information into the communication
device 10. In a preferred embodiment, at step 603, a user or
account holder can request that the central processing computer 30
provide a pre-specified payment identifier to the merchant computer
20. In another preferred embodiment, at step 603, the user or
account holder can enter information regarding a method of payment
(i.e. credit, charge, debit, etc.) and an account which is to be
utilized.
[0149] At step 604, the communication device 10 can transmit the
payment command to the central processing computer 30. At step 605,
the central processing computer 30 can receive the payment
command.
[0150] At step 606, the central processing computer 30 can process
the payment command, identify the pertinent payment identifier
information, and retrieve the pertinent payment identifier
information from the database 30G. At step 606, the central
processing computer 30 can also transmit the payment identifier
information to the merchant computer 20.
[0151] At step 607, the merchant computer 20 can receive the
payment identifier information. At step 608, the merchant computer
20 can process the payment identifier information in conjunction
with processing and/or consummating the transaction. Thereafter,
the operation of the apparatus 200 will cease at step 609.
[0152] In the above-described manner, the apparatus and method the.
present invention can provide an electronic telephone wallet and/or
a communication device wallet by utilizing any of the
herein-described and/or other suitable telephones, communication
devices and/or computers. The apparatus and method of the present
invention can also be utilized in conjunction with a telephone
and/or a communication device which is associated with a user or
account holder and/or the apparatus and method of the present
invention can be utilized in conjunction with any of the
herein-described and/or any other suitable central processing
computer(s) 30.
[0153] While the present invention has been described and
illustrated in various preferred and alternate embodiments, such
descriptions are merely illustrative of the present invention and
are not to be construed to be limitations thereof. In this regard,
the present invention encompasses all modifications, variations,
and/or alternate embodiments, with the scope of the present
invention being limited only by the claims which follow.
* * * * *