U.S. patent application number 13/725492 was filed with the patent office on 2013-06-27 for instant disposable payment card.
The applicant listed for this patent is Egor Kobylkin, Robin Schuil. Invention is credited to Egor Kobylkin, Robin Schuil.
Application Number | 20130166441 13/725492 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 48655507 |
Filed Date | 2013-06-27 |
United States Patent
Application |
20130166441 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Kobylkin; Egor ; et
al. |
June 27, 2013 |
Instant Disposable Payment Card
Abstract
An instant disposable payment card can have a quick response
(QR) code. The QR code can be scanned by the user. Scanning the QR
code can facilitate activation and/or funding of the instant
disposable payment card and/or can facilitate a creation of an
account or an activation of a pre-created account at a payment
system provider. The user can then use the instant payment card to
pay for purchases. A merchant can scan the QR code or swipe a
magnetic strip of the instant disposable payment card to effect
payment to the merchant for the purchase. An account of the instant
disposable payment card can be funded after use thereof to make a
purchase.
Inventors: |
Kobylkin; Egor; (Berlin,
DE) ; Schuil; Robin; (Almere, NL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Kobylkin; Egor
Schuil; Robin |
Berlin
Almere |
|
DE
NL |
|
|
Family ID: |
48655507 |
Appl. No.: |
13/725492 |
Filed: |
December 21, 2012 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
61579469 |
Dec 22, 2011 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
705/39 ;
705/35 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G06Q 20/354 20130101;
G07F 7/086 20130101; G06Q 20/3224 20130101; G06Q 20/348
20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
705/39 ;
705/35 |
International
Class: |
G06Q 20/34 20060101
G06Q020/34 |
Claims
1. A system comprising: one or more memories storing account
information for a plurality of pre-created instant disposable
payment card accounts; one or more processors operable to: receive
a communication including an indication of a desire of a user to
activate an instant disposable payment card associated with one of
the accounts, wherein the communication is received from the user
communicating a code on the instant disposable payment card;
activate the instant disposable payment card based, at least in
part, on the communication; and send a communication to a device of
the user including an indication that the instant disposable
payment card has been activated.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the received communication
includes identification information for the user.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the account is unfunded and the
communication to the device of the user further includes a message
informing the user that the account needs to be funded.
4. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are
operable to fund the account with a money amount and the
communication to the device of the user further includes a message
informing the user that the account is funded with the money
amount.
5. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are
operable to automatically fund the account via a payment
provider.
6. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are
operable to automatically provide the account with a credit
amount.
7. The system of claim 1, wherein the code comprises a quick
response (QR) code.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the code comprises a magnetic
strip.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the code has been scanned from
the instant disposable payment card via a mobile device and
communicated to the one or more processors via the mobile
device.
10. The system of claim 1, wherein the code has been entered via a
website of the system.
11. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are
further operable to process payments from the user via Instant
Automated Clearing House (iACH).
12. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are
further operable to process payments from the user via invoice
funding.
13. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are
further operable to receive a communication including an indication
of a money amount with which the account is to be funded.
14. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are
further operable to receive a communication including an indication
of a credit amount with which the account is to be provided.
15. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are
further operable to fund the account with an amount of a purchase
after the purchase is made.
16. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are
further operable to send a communication to a device of the user
including the code.
17. The system of claim 1, wherein the one or more processors are
further operable to send a communication to a device of a merchant
including the code.
18. The system of claim 1, wherein the code is a QR code containing
information regarding at least one item selected from the group
consisting of: a merchant; the user; a user account; and a payment
provider;
19. A method comprising: storing, in one or more memories, account
information for a plurality of pre-created instant disposable
payment card account; receiving, electronically via one or more
processors, a communication including an indication of a desire of
a user to activate an instant disposable payment card associated
with one of the accounts, wherein the communication is received
from the user communicating a code on the instant disposable
payment card; activating, electronically via the one or more
processors, the instant disposable payment card based, at least in
part, on the communication; and sending, electronically via the one
or more processors, a communication to a device of the user
including an indication that the instant disposable payment card
has been activated.
20. A computer program product comprising a non-transitory computer
readable medium having computer readable and executable code for
instructing one or more processors to perform a method, the method
comprising: storing account information for a plurality of
pre-created instant disposable payment card accounts; receiving a
communication including an indication of a desire of a user to
activate an instant disposable payment card associated with one of
the accounts, wherein the communication is received from the user
communicating a code on the instant disposable payment card;
activating the instant disposable payment card based, at least in
part, on the communication; and sending a communication to a device
of the user including an indication that the instant disposable
payment card has been activated.
Description
PRIORITY CLAIM
[0001] This patent application claims the benefit of the priority
date of U.S. provisional patent application Ser. No. 61/579,469,
filed on 22 Dec. 2011 and pursuant to 35 USC 119. The entire
contents of this provisional patent application are hereby
expressly incorporated by reference.
BACKGROUND
[0002] 1. Technical Field
[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to electronic
commerce and, more particularly, relates to methods and systems for
providing an instant disposable payment card.
[0004] 2. Related Art
[0005] Payment cards are well known and widely used. Examples of
payment cards include credit cards, bank cards, debit cards, and
gift cards. Such payment cards are commonly used in place of cash
and checks to make purchases. Generally, such payment cards provide
a safer and more convenient method for making payments as compared
to the use of cash and checks. Thus, consumers are generally more
comfortable carrying payment cards than they are carrying cash or
checks.
[0006] However, payment cards have some important deficiencies.
Payment cards are not as safe as desired. For example, a payment
card or a payment card number can be stolen, thus potentially
providing a thief with access to the legitimate cardholder's
purchasing power and possibly providing the thief with access to an
account, such as a bank account of the cardholder.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system for providing and
using instant disposable payment cards, according to an
embodiment;
[0008] FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing a method for providing and
using instant disposable payment cards, according to an
embodiment;
[0009] FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing further detail of the method
for providing and using instant disposable payment cards, according
to an embodiment;
[0010] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an example of a computer that
is suitable for use in the system for providing and using instant
disposable payment cards, according to an embodiment; and
[0011] FIG. 5 shows an instant disposable payment card, according
to an embodiment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0012] Methods and systems can provide an instant disposable
payment card. According to an embodiment, the instant disposable
payment card can have a quick response (QR) code, any other type of
code, or any combination of types of codes formed thereon or
associated therewith. The code can be scanned or otherwise read by
the user, such as with a smart phone or other device. Scanning the
code can facilitate activation of the instant disposable payment
card. Funding of the instant disposable payment card can be done by
the user or can be done automatically, such as during or after the
activation process. Funding of the instant disposable payment card
can be done prior to a purchase with the instant disposable payment
card or after the purchase with the instant disposable payment
card.
[0013] Funding of the instant disposable payment card after the
purchase can tend to minimize the amount of money in an account of
the instant disposable payment card. Thus, funding of the instant
disposable payment card after the purchase can tend to minimize the
user's exposure to risk with respect to the account. If the instant
disposable payment card is lost or stolen, there can be little or
no money in the account for improper use by others.
[0014] Funding of the instant disposable payment card after the
purchase can also tend to provide more efficient or more desirable
use of the user's money. The user can prefer to keep the user's
money in another account, such as a checking account or a debit
card account, until it is necessary to transfer the money to the
account of the instant disposable payment card. Funding can be done
as needed and can be performed automatically by the system, either
with or without the need for user confirmation of money
transfers
[0015] The instant disposable payment card can have a magnetic
strip. The magnetic strip can contain the code. A merchant can scan
the code to facilitate payment for the purchase. For example, the
merchant can scan the QR code or swipe a magnetic strip of the
payment card to facilitate payment for the purchase.
[0016] According to an embodiment, merchants can obtain new
customers for a payment provider or the like. The new customers can
be obtained off line, e.g., without substantial involvement of the
payment provider. In this manner, the cost of obtaining new
customers can be reduced while increasing the number of new
customers obtained. Thus, the system can provide a low cost method
for marketing services of the payment provider.
[0017] According to an embodiment, the instant disposable payment
card can be a substantially blank card. For example, the instant
disposable payment card can have only a QR code or the like
thereon. The instant disposable payment card can lack any
information, such as the user's name, thereon.
[0018] A company name and/or logo of the provider of the instant
disposable payment card can be printed on the instant disposable
payment card. The instant disposable payment card can have any
desired information printed or otherwise formed thereon. Such
information can be put on the instant disposable payment card by
the user, the merchant, or any other entity. The user's name can be
put on the instant disposable payment card.
[0019] An unactivated instant disposable payment card can be
associated with or connected to a pre-created payment provider
account, such as an account of PayPal, Inc. Thus, a plurality of
unactivated instant disposable payment cards can be created and a
generally corresponding plurality of pre-created payment provider
accounts can be created. Each of the unactivated instant disposable
payment cards can be associated with one of the pre-created payment
provider accounts, such as via an account number and/or the QR
code. The account number can be the QR code or can be part of the
QR code or visa-versa. The instant disposable payment cards can be
activated instantly (such as at the merchant's store with a
smart-phone (QR code) or via a browser.
[0020] In this manner, prospective users or customers (such as
prospective customers of the payment provider and/or prospective
customers of the merchant) can be provided with a tangible object,
e.g., the instant disposable payment card. The tangible object can
be connected to the payment provider prior to the users opening an
account with the payment provider.
[0021] Providing a prospective customer, e.g., the user, with the
instant disposable payment card can encourage the prospective
customer to use the instant disposable payment card and to later
become a regular customer of the payment provider and/or merchant.
Once activated, the instant disposable payment card can use an
automated payment clearing system such as the Instant Automated
Clearing House (iACH) and/or an invoice payment system such as
BillSafe to process payments resulting from purchases made with the
instant disposable payment card. By combining the instant
disposable payment card with an invoice payment system, such as
BillSafe, customers are further encouraged to use the system.
[0022] The cost to the payment provider can be very low. For
example, the cost of providing the instant disposable payment cards
and for using the instant disposable payment cards can be low
enough to provide an attractive mechanism for marketing of the
payment provider. By creating and providing accounts and card with
no funds associated therewith (until the user funds the account),
the cost associated therewith can tend to be minimized The instant
disposable payment cards can be printed inexpensively and can be
distributed as merchandise or along with the merchandise.
[0023] For example, the payment provider can issue a plurality of
blank cards having a QR codes printed thereon. Each instant
disposable payment card can have a magnet strip, a QR code, a bar
code, an SKU code, a RFID code, and/or any other code. The code can
be printed on the card, attached to the card (such as via a label
or sticker), or otherwise formed upon and/or within the card. The
user or any other person (such as the merchant) can scan the QR
code with a smartphone and can fill in a linked form (such as on a
website of the payment provider or the merchant) to open, activate,
and/or fund an account associated with the instant disposable
payment card. The unactivated instant disposable payment card can
thus be automatically associated with the new account. The new
account can be a pre-existing account.
[0024] After adding a bank account, credit card account, or the
like to the payment provider account/ instant disposable payment
card account, then the instant disposable card can be funded with
money. The instant disposable payment card can then be used as a
point of sale (POS) debit or credit card.
[0025] Where available, payment on invoice (BillSafe) can be used.
Using BillSafe allows the user to make payment, e.g., transfer
funds to the instant disposable payment card account, upon
receiving a bill or invoice. Using BillSafe allows the user to
complete the purchase and initiate an invoicing process by the
merchant, thereby deferring the actual funds transfer. The actual
payment (funds transfer) takes place after the receipt of the
invoice and before the payment due date.
[0026] A credit can be given to the customer immediately upon
registration. In this manner, the user can make low risk purchases,
such as purchases for digital goods and/or purchases for small
amounts. The credit can be for a small money amount. For example,
the credit can be for $5, $10, or $25. The credit can be
restricted, such as for use when purchasing one or more specified
products. The credit can be for a larger amount. The credit can be
for any amount.
[0027] Thus, prospective customers can be provided with a tangible
object, e.g., the instant disposable payment card, that is
connected to the payment provider (the payment provider can own or
operate the system) before the prospective customers open an
account with the payment provider. Once the prospective customer
opens an account, instant disposable payment card can remain in use
by the user. Thus, the instant disposable payment card can be an
effective marketing tool for the payment provider.
[0028] Note that use of the payment provider herein can be by way
of example only and not by way of limitation. The instant
disposable payment card system can be owned or operated by the
payment provider or by any other entity.
[0029] The instant disposable payment card can remain in the
possession of the user and thus encourage further user thereof. The
instant disposable payment card can stay with the user and thereby
encourage higher customer engagement with the payment provider. The
instant disposable payment card can remind the customer about the
payment provider account (such as via a URL, account ID, payment
provider name or logo or any other information printed or otherwise
provided on the instant disposable payment card). Moreover, the
instant disposable payment card can be useful, convenient, and
comparatively safe payment means. For example, by paying into the
instant disposable payment card account via a POS debit card, use
of the instant disposable payment card can be made easy and
convenient while substantially limiting exposure of the user's
money to theft and fraud.
[0030] According to an embodiment, the instant disposable payment
card can include a QR code and/or a magnetic stripe that associates
the instant disposable payment card with the user's payment
provider account. For example, the QR code and the magnetic stripe
can associate the instant disposable payment card with the account
for the instant disposable payment card and the account for the
instant disposable payment card can be associated with the user's
payment provider account. Thus, product purchased with the instant
disposable payment card can readily be paid for via the payment
provider account (via the instant disposable payment card
account).
[0031] The user can activate or fund the instant disposable payment
card by scanning the QR code, such as with the user's smart phone,
which connects the user to the user's account with the payment
provider. The user can activate or fund the instant disposable
payment card by scanning the QR code, such as with the user's smart
phone, which connects the user to the payment provider web site or
initiates a phone call where the user can either request the
creation of a payment provider customer account or connect an
existing payment provider customer account to the card account. The
card account number is encoded in the QR code and transferred to
the payment provider over the communication link (URL encoded or
tone dialing code). The activation can take place completely
manually via typing in or reading out over the phone.
[0032] The user can enter a desired amount to fund the card. The
user can then use the card to make payments, such as by a merchant
scanning the QR code or by swiping the card to read the magnetic
stripe. The instant disposable payment card can be a disposable
card printed on paper or any other material.
[0033] For example, the instant disposable payment card can
resemble a subway ticket. The card can also be the subway ticket or
any other card or ticket. The QR code can be printed on the subway
ticket in addition to the magnet stripe or QR code that serves for
subway fare system.
[0034] The instant disposable payment card can be funded, used, and
re-funded, as desired. The instant disposable payment card can be
discarded when no longer used or desired by the user.
[0035] According to an embodiment, the instant disposable payment
card can include a QR code. The user can scan the QR code to load
the instant disposable payment card with a certain or predetermined
amount of funds. The same merchant who provided the instant
disposable payment card or a different merchant can subsequently
scan the QR code to accept payment from the user for goods or
services provided by the same merchant or the different
merchant
[0036] The instant disposable payment card can be funded only as
needed. For example, the instant disposable payment card can be
funded from a bank account, credit card, payment provider account,
or in any other manner for each use of the instant disposable
payment card and only after the user. Thus, a user can control or
limit exposure to a funding card, while easily being able to fund
or add funds to the card.
[0037] The instant disposable payment card can be funded with any
desired amount at any desired time. Thus, the instant disposable
payment card can be funded with any desired amount prior to
use.
[0038] According to an embodiment, the user can be provided with
the instant disposable payment card having at least a QR code
printed on it. The instant disposable payment card can be provided
by a merchant, a payment provider, or the user can print the
instant disposable payment card (such as via a home or office
printer). The QR code can contain information about a merchant, a
user, a user account, a payment provider, a code or card
identifier, or any other information.
[0039] The user can scan the QR code, such as from the user's smart
phone. The user's smart phone can open an app or web page, such as
with the payment provider. The user can then log in to the user's
payment provider account, such as by entering requested information
like a user name, phone number, password, and/or a personal
identification number (PIN). Once the user is logged in, the user
can enter or select a desired amount for funding the instant
disposable payment card. For example, the user can fund the card
with $50.
[0040] The user can also place limits or restrictions on the card
as desired. For example, the user can place limits on the instant
disposable payment card regarding when the card can be used, an
expiration date/time of the card, the product or type of product
that can be purchased, any other users who are permitted to use the
etc. Once funded, the payment provider associates the QR code
and/or card with the user's account and the funding amount. The
card is then ready for use by the user. In one embodiment, the card
is authorized for a certain amount, but the funds are not withdrawn
or debited from the user's account until the card is used. In
another embodiment, the funds are debited when the card is
loaded.
[0041] For example, upon entering a club, the user or customer
receive a paper card (similar to a business card) which has a
unique QR code printed on it. The QR code stores information about
a disposable account that can be used to pay for drinks and other
items from the club. The customer scans the QR code with their
phone and authorizes a certain amount of money to be placed on the
card. The customer then walks over to the bar, orders drinks, and
simply presents the paper card to the bartender. The bartender
scans the QR code at the cash register. This communicates
information to the payment provider to process to payment request
from the bartender. For example, the scan can communicate
information about the club, such as an account or identifier, and
the card/QR code. The payment provider determines whether there are
funds available associated with the QR code, and if so, whether the
payment request can be made, such as based on the amount of the
payment request, the amount of funds on the card, the location of
the merchant, etc. If approved, the payment provider credits an
account of the merchant and reduces the account of the consumer
accordingly. Thus, the next time the card is used, there will be a
lower amount available. A receipt of the transaction can
automatically be placed in the user's account.
[0042] Use of the instant disposable payment card system provides
various benefits. For example, the system can allow multiple people
to authorize sums of money to the same card. This way, the user and
the user's friends can each add some amount to the card and have
any desired person make purchases with the single card. As a
further example, if the user loses the card, the user can access
the user's payment provider account to revoke the authorization on
the card, thereby eliminating the possibility that others who find
the card can use the card.
[0043] As a further example, if there are insufficient funds on the
card to pay for a purchase, the user can simply scan the card at
the bar or anywhere else to fund the card with additional funds. As
a further example, the user can hand the card to anyone, such as a
friend, to make a purchase, such as at the bar. The user does not
need to give him any user credentials to use the card.
[0044] As a further example, the card can be made compatible with
non-payment provider users. For example, the club owner can install
a self-service payment terminal that allows customers to scan their
card and load money on it using cash or their credit card. As a
further example, if the user is traveling or abroad, the user can
charge the card using the payment provider account and pay in the
user's home country currency.
[0045] As a further example, if the user needs a receipt (e.g., for
reimbursement), the receipt can already be available in the user's
account or phone, as the payment provider can automatically load or
place a receipt after a purchase. The user can also scan the QR
code and download the receipt to the user's phone. As a further
example, after use the user can simply destroy the card. If the
card was pre-funded, the user can also transfer any remaining
amount back to the user's payment provider account.
[0046] In another embodiment, a user is provided the instant
disposable payment card with at least a QR code and a magnetic
stripe printed on it. The magnetic stripe can be associated or
correlated with the QR code on the card. The card can be provided
by a merchant, a payment provider, or the user can print the card.
The QR code can contain information about a merchant, a user, a
user account, a payment provider, a code, stripe, or card
identifier, or other desired information. The user then scans the
QR code, such as from the user's smart phone, which opens up an app
or page with the payment provider. The user can then login to the
user's account, such as by entering requested information like a
user name, phone number, password, and/or PIN. Once logged in, the
user can enter or select a desired amount to fund the card with.
For example, the user can fund the card with $50.
[0047] The user can also place limits or restrictions on the
instant disposable payment card as desired, such as when the card
can be used, an expiration date/time of the instant disposable
payment card, etc. Once funded, the payment provider can associate
the QR code, stripe, and/or card with the user's payment provider
account to provide funding of the instant disposable payment card.
The instant disposable payment card is then ready for use magnetic
by the user. In one embodiment, the instant disposable payment card
is authorized for a certain amount, but the funds are not withdrawn
or debited from the user's account until the card is used. In
another embodiment, the funds are debited when the instant
disposable payment card is loaded.
[0048] In one example, the user has the instant disposable payment
card swiped by a merchant to read information contained in the
magnetic stripe. The merchant or the user can swipe the instant
disposable payment card at a POS device, which communicates certain
information contained in the instant disposable payment card as
well as information about the transaction to the payment provider.
For example, the payment provider can receive a merchant
identifier, a payment request amount, and a card number or
identifier. Using this information, the payment provider accesses
the user account associated with the instant disposable payment
card to determine limits for the instant disposable payment card
and/or restrictions. The payment request can be processed.
[0049] If the payment is approved, the merchant can be notified,
the payment amount credited to a merchant account, and a
corresponding amount debited from the user's account. The payment
provider then updates the instant disposable payment card account
with a reduced amount left for use. The user can add or deduct
funds at any time by scanning the QR code on the instant disposable
payment card. The user can also manage the instant disposable
payment card directly through the user's account with the payment
provider, such as by logging into the user's account through a PC
or other device. Note that the instant disposable payment card can
also be used as in the first embodiment, where the QR code is
scanned by the merchant or payee. Thus, advantages and features are
the same or similar to the first embodiment. In addition, the
instant disposable payment card with a magnetic stripe can allow
the user to make payments where the merchant does not have a QR
code scanner and only has a magnetic strip reader.
[0050] Note that in other embodiments, an NFC chip can be added to
the instant disposable payment card, with or without the magnetic
stripe. Processing and use would be similar to what is described
herein. In particular, the QR code can be used to load the instant
disposable payment card, such that when the instant disposable
payment card is read by an NFC reader at the POS, the instant
disposable payment card can be used to make a payment through the
account with the payment provider associated with the instant
disposable payment card. The user can also be able to load the
instant disposable payment card using the NFC chip if the user's
device has an NFC reader.
[0051] Thus, according to an embodiment, the instant disposable
payment instant disposable payment card can store a code, e.g., a
number, that is available to both the user and the merchant so that
the instant disposable payment card can be loaded or preauthorized
and used to make payments at POS locations, where the code can be
used to associate the instant disposable payment card with an
account of the user with a payment provider.
[0052] Instant disposable payment cards containing QR codes (and
magnetic strips in some cases) can offer users an alternative form
of payment that provides several advantages over traditional method
means. The instant disposable payment cards can be disposable and
easily made, so that the user can have several disposable paper
cards in the user's possession at any one time. However, the
instant disposable payment cards would have no value to anyone
unless and when the user funds the instant disposable payment
cards. Funding the instant disposable payment cards can be easily
accomplished anywhere by the user scanning the QR code with a user
smart phone and funding the instant disposable payment card through
the user's account with a payment provider. Thus, these instant
disposable payment cards provide a safe way for the user to make
payments, while limiting exposure that a credit or debit card can
have.
[0053] According to an embodiment, a method can comprise receiving
a payment request from a merchant through a merchant device. The
payment request can be received via a scan of a QR code on the
instant disposable payment card. The method can further comprise
accessing an account of the user with a payment provider based on
the payment request, determining a funding limit associated with
the instant disposable payment card, determining whether an amount
of the payment request is within the funding limit of the instant
disposable payment card, and processing the payment request.
[0054] The instant disposable payment card can be a disposable
paper card. The instant disposable payment card can be provided to
the user by the merchant. The instant disposable payment card is
provided to the user by the payment provider. The processing can
comprise crediting an account of the merchant, debiting the account
of the user, and notifying the merchant if the payment request is
approved.
[0055] The processing can further comprise reducing the funding
limit of the instant disposable payment card based on the amount of
the payment request. The instant disposable payment card can be
activated when the user scans the QR code and funds the instant
disposable payment card through the account of the user with the
payment provider. The method can further comprise increasing the
funding limit when the user adds more funds to the instant
disposable payment card by scanning the QR code and accessing the
account of the user with the payment provider.
[0056] According to an embodiment, a method can comprise receiving
a payment request from a merchant through a merchant device. The
payment request can be received from a swipe of a magnetic strip on
the instant disposable payment card also having a QR code. An
account of the user with a payment provider can be accessed based
on the payment request. A funding limit associated with the instant
disposable payment card can be determined. Whether an amount of the
payment request is within the funding limit of the instant
disposable payment card can be determined. The payment request can
be processed.
[0057] The instant disposable payment card can be a disposable
paper card. The instant disposable payment card can be provided to
the user by the merchant. The instant disposable payment card can
be provided to the user by the payment provider.
[0058] The processing can comprise crediting an account of the
merchant, debiting the account of the user, and notifying the
merchant if the payment request is approved. The processing can
further comprise reducing the funding limit of the instant
disposable payment card based on the amount of the payment
request.
[0059] The instant disposable payment card can be activated when
the user scans the QR code and funds the instant disposable payment
card through the account of the user with the payment provider. The
method can further comprise increasing the funding limit when the
user adds more funds to the instant disposable payment card by
scanning the QR code and accessing the account of the user with the
payment provider.
[0060] According to an embodiment, a disposable funding instant
disposable payment card can comprise a QR code, wherein the QR code
is configured to be scanned by a payee to send a payment request to
a payment provider, who processes the payment request by accessing
an account of the user associated with the instant disposable
payment card, determining a funding limit of the instant disposable
payment card, and determining whether the payment request is within
the funding limit of the instant disposable payment card. The
instant disposable payment card can be activated when the user
scans the QR code and funds the instant disposable payment card
through the account of the user with the payment provider.
[0061] The instant disposable payment card can further comprise a
magnetic stripe, wherein the magnetic stripe is configured to be
read by a payee to send a payment request to the payment provider,
who processes the payment request by accessing the account of the
user associated with the instant disposable payment card,
determining a funding limit of the instant disposable payment card,
and determining whether the payment request is within the funding
limit of the instant disposable payment card.
[0062] According to an embodiment, a system can comprise one or
more memories for storing account information for a plurality of
pre-created instant disposable payment card accounts. The account
information can include a code for each account. One or more
processors can be operable to receive a communication including an
indication of a desire of a user to activate an instant disposable
payment card associated with one of the accounts. The processor(s)
can be further operable to activate the instant disposable payment
card and send a communication to a device of the user including an
indication that the instant disposable payment card has been
activated.
[0063] The received communication can include identification
information for the user. The received communication can include a
request to transfer money, such a via a credit card or payment
provider or such as from a back account, to fund the account. The
received communication can include a request for credit to be
provided for the account. The received communication can include
information regarding the user, such as the user's name, social
security number, home address, telephone number, employer, years of
employment, email address, and the like. The received communication
can include any desired information or request.
[0064] The account can be unfunded. The communication to the device
of the user can further include a message informing the user that
the account needs to be funded. The user can then fund the account.
For example, the user can fund the account via a credit card, via a
payment provider, by check, from a bank account, by depositing
funds with the merchant, or by any other means.
[0065] The one or more processors can be operable to fund the
account with a money amount. Such funding with money can be up
front or prior to any use of the instant disposable payment card.
The account can be funded after requesting authorization from the
user. The one or more processors can be operable to automatically
fund the account via a credit card, bank account, or the payment
provider. Thus, the user can provide the system with information
regarding the user's credit card, bank account, or payment provider
and the system can use this information to automatically fund the
account. In this manner, the user is spared the inconvenience of
having to fund the account. The communication to the device of the
user can further include a message informing the user that the
account is funded with the money amount. In this manner, the
account can be funded with money, as opposed to being provided with
credit. For example, the account can be funded with $100 of
money.
[0066] The one or more processors can be operable to automatically
provide the account with a credit amount. The credit amount can be
provided either with or without authorization from the user. In
this manner, the account can be provided with credit, as opposed to
being funded with money. For example, the account can be provided
with $100 of credit.
[0067] The account can both be provided with credit and funded with
money. For example, the account can be provided with $100 of credit
and funded with $100 of money. Thus, the user can make purchases
with the money until the money amount is exhausted and can then
make purchase with the credit. Any amount owed due to making
purchases with the, credit can be repaid immediately (such as
during the following billing cycle) or can be repaid over time
(such as via monthly installments).
[0068] The account can be funded with money on an as needed basis.
For example, the account can funded with money from a credit card,
payment provider, and/or bank account in response to a purchase
transaction. Thus, the one or more processors can be further
operable to fund the account with an amount of a purchase after the
purchase is made. In this manner, the user's money can be
transferred to the account only when needed.
[0069] The account can both be provided with credit and funded with
money up front (such as when the account is opened and/or
periodically thereafter), or provided with money on an as needed
basis. Any desired combination of credit, up front funding, and as
needed funding can be used.
[0070] The code can be a quick response (QR) code. The code can be
a bar code, stock keeping unit (SKU), near field communication
(NFC) code, or any other type of code. The code can be a human
readable code, such as an alphanumeric code. The code can be read
or scanned via a mobile device. For example, the code can be imaged
(such as with a QR code, bar code, or SKU). As a further example,
the code can be read wirelessly, such as with an NFC code. Thus,
the code can be scanned from the instant disposable payment card.
The code can include an identification of the instant disposable
payment card, an account number, an identification of the merchant,
information regard a payment provider (such as an identification of
the payment provider and/or an account with the payment provider,
such as an account associated with the instant disposable payment
card), and any other information. The code can be used to
facilitate opening of the account for the user. For example, the
account number or identification of the instant disposable payment
card can be or can include the account number of the account.
[0071] The code can be scanned from the instant disposable payment
card via the user's mobile device. The code can be communicated to
the one or more processors via the mobile device. The code can be
communicated to the one or more processors from the mobile device
via one or more networks. For example, the code can be communicated
to the one or more processors from the mobile device via a local
area network (LAN) of the merchant, the Internet, a cellular
telephone data network, and/or any other network.
[0072] The code can be entered via a website of the system. For
example, the code can be scanned with the user's mobile device and
can be entered, either automatically or manually, into a form of
the website. Alternatively, the code can be read by the user from
the product, label, or other indicia and can be typed by the user
into the form, such as via a keypad or touchscreen of the user
device. If the human readable code is used, then it can be
communicated to the payment provider staff or electronic customer
service system via voice or any other means of communication
available to humans.
[0073] The one or more processors can be further operable to
process payments from the user via Instant Automated Clearing House
(iACH). iACH is a type of an Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT). As
used herein, iACH can include a pull bank funded transaction. In
Germany iACH is referred to as Electronic Lastschrift Verfaren
(ELV).
[0074] The one or more processors can be further operable to
process payments from the user via invoice funding. For example,
the one or more processors can be further operable to process
purchases from the user via BillSafe. BillSafe is a system that
provides a purchase-on-invoice feature for the purchase of
products, such as purchases made via a credit card or payment
provider. Using BillSafe, a user can purchase and receive a
product. Then, the user can be billed for the product, such as on
an invoice, at a later time.
[0075] The one or more processors can be further operable to
receive a communication including an indication of a money amount
with which the account is to be funded. Thus, the user can indicate
how much money is to be transferred to the account. For example,
the use can specify a credit card, bank account, or payment
provider which is to be used to fund the account. Similarly, the
one or more processors can be further operable to receive a
communication including an indication of a credit amount with which
the account is to be provided. The account can be funded with a
combination of money and credit.
[0076] The one or more processors can be further operable to send a
communication to a device of the user including the code. Thus, the
device of the user can subsequently be used to facilitate purchases
via the instant disposable payment card.
[0077] The one or more processors can be further operable to send a
communication to a device of the merchant including the code. Thus,
the device of the merchant can subsequently be used to facilitate
purchases via the instant disposable payment card.
[0078] The code can be a QR code. The QR code can contain
information. For example, the QR code can contain information
regarding at least one item such as information regarding the
merchant, information regarding the user, information regarding a
user account, and/or information regarding a payment provider. The
QR code can contain any desired information.
[0079] According to an embodiment, a method can comprise storing,
in one or more memories, account information for a plurality of
pre-created instant disposable payment card accounts. The account
information can include a code for each account. The method can
further comprise receiving, electronically via one or more
processors, a communication including an indication of a desire of
a user to activate an instant disposable payment card associated
with one of the accounts. The method can further comprise
activating, electronically via the one or more processors or by any
other means, the instant disposable payment card and sending,
electronically via the one or more processors or by any other
means, a communication to a device of the user including an
indication that the instant disposable payment card has been
activated.
[0080] According to an embodiment, a computer program product can
comprise a non-transitory computer readable medium having computer
readable and executable code for instructing one or more processors
to perform a method. The method can comprising storing account
information for a plurality of pre-created instant disposable
payment card accounts. The account information can include a code
for each account. The method can further comprise receiving a
communication including an indication of a desire of a user to
activate an instant disposable payment card associated with one of
the accounts. The method can further comprise activating the
instant disposable payment card and sending a communication to a
device of the user including an indication that the instant
disposable payment card has been activated.
[0081] According to an embodiment, the instant disposable payment
card 150 can be used to withdraw money from an automatic teller
machine (ATM). According to an embodiment, the instant disposable
payment card 150 cannot be used to withdraw money from an automatic
teller machine (ATM). According to an embodiment, the instant
disposable payment card 150 can be used to add money to another
account, such as a bank account, a credit card account, or a
payment processor account.
[0082] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system for providing and
using an instant disposable payment card 150 (FIG. 5), according to
an embodiment. The system can include a merchant device 110. The
merchant device 110 can be a merchant checkout terminal, a mobile
device, a computer, and/or a server, for example. The merchant
device 110 can include a memory 111 and a processor 112. The
merchant device 110 can be used for creating, storing, dispensing,
authorizing, communicating information regarding, and/or using the
instant disposable payment card 150. For example, the merchant
device 110 can be used for making a purchase by the user with the
instant disposable payment card 150.
[0083] The merchant device 110 can include a scanner 113. The
scanner 113 can be a QR scanner, a bar code scanner, an SKU
scanner, an NFC code scanner, an RFID code scanner, or any other
type of scanner. The scanner 113 can be used to scan the code of
the instant disposable payment card 150.
[0084] The system can include a mobile device 120. The mobile
device 120 can be carried by the user. The mobile device 120 can be
a cellular telephone, a smart telephone, a hand held computer, a
laptop computer, a notebook computer, or a tablet computer, for
example. The mobile device 120 can include a processor 121, a
memory 122, and a global positioning system (GPS) 123.
[0085] The mobile device 120 can include a scanner 125. The scanner
125 can be a QR scanner, a bar code scanner, an SKU scanner, an NFC
code scanner, an RFID code scanner, or any other type of scanner.
The scanner 125 can be used to scan the code of the instant
disposable payment card 150.
[0086] Thus, the instant disposable payment card 150 can be scanned
by the mobile device 120. For example, a QR code 153 of the instant
disposable payment card 150 can be scanned, read, stored in the
memory 122, and/or communicated by the mobile device 120. The
mobile device 120 can be used for routine telephone calls, text
messaging, and web browsing, as well as for authorizing and/or
using an instant disposable payment card 150.
[0087] The instant disposable payment card 150 can be a virtual
payment card. For example, the instant disposable payment card 150
can be stored in the mobile device 120 or anywhere else. The mobile
device 120 can display or otherwise provide the instant disposable
payment card 150 or information regarding the instant disposable
payment card 150, such as to facilitate a purchase therewith.
[0088] An app 124 can be stored in the memory 122 and executed by
the processor 121. The app 124 can be used for activating and using
the instant disposable payment card 150. The app 124 can be used to
scan the QR code 153. For example, scanning the QR code 153 can
automatically execute the app. The app can then ask the user to
verify that the user wants to activate the instant disposable
payment card 150. The app can then, if appropriate, present the
user a form to fill out via the mobile device 120, such as via a
key pad or touch screen thereof. Once activated, the app can
facilitate use of the instant disposable payment card 150 to make
purchases. Purchases can be made with the physical instant
disposable payment card 150, the mobile device 120 (such as with a
virtual instant disposable payment card and/or without the physical
instant disposable payment card 150), or with a combination of the
mobile device 120 and the instant disposable payment card 150.
[0089] The GPS 123 can be used to determine the location of the
user. The GPS 123 can be used to determine the location of the user
when the user attempts to activate and/or use the instant
disposable payment card 150. Activation and/or use can be refused
if the user is not at or near a predetermined location. For
example, the user can be required to be at the location of the
merchant where the unactivated instant disposable payment card was
obtained in order to activate and/or use the instant disposable
payment card 150.
[0090] The system can include a payment server 130. The payment
server 130 can be a server of a payment provider, such as PayPal,
Inc. The payment server 130 can be a single server or can be a
plurality of servers. The payment server 130 can include one or
more processors 131 and a memory 132. The memory 132 can be a
memory of the payment server 130 or a memory that is associated
with the payment server 130. The memory 132 can be a distributed
memory. The memory 132 can store a user account 133 and a merchant
account 134.
[0091] The payment server 130 can be used for facilitating
authorization and use of the instant disposable payment card 150.
For example, the payment server 130 can receive a communication
from the mobile device 120 that is indicative of the QR code 153 of
the instant disposable payment card 150 and can activate the
instant disposable payment card 150 or can facilitate a purchase
transaction in response to the communication.
[0092] Generally, the merchant device 110, the mobile device 120,
and the payment server 130 can perform functions discussed herein.
This is, to some extent, a function that is discussed herein as
being performed via one of these devices can be performed by a
different one of these devices or by a combination of these
devices.
[0093] The merchant device 110, the mobile device 120, and the
payment server 130 can communicate with one another via a network,
such as the Internet 140. The merchant device 110, the mobile
device 120, and the payment server 130 can communicate with one
another via one or more networks, such as local area networks
(LANs), wide area networks (WANs), cellular telephone networks, and
the like. The merchant device 110, the mobile device 120, the
social network 150, and the payment server 130 can communicate with
one another, at least partially, via one or more near field
communications (NFC) methods or other short range communications
methods, such as infrared (IR), Bluetooth, WiFi, and WiMax.
[0094] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a
network-based system for implementing one or more processes
described herein. As shown, the network-based system can comprise
or implement a plurality of servers and/or software components that
operate to perform various methodologies in accordance with the
described embodiments. Exemplary servers can include, for example,
stand-alone and enterprise-class servers operating a server OS such
as a MICROSOFT.RTM. OS, a UNIX.RTM. OS, a LINUX.RTM. OS, or another
suitable server-based OS. It can be appreciated that the servers
illustrated in FIG. 1 can be deployed in other ways and that the
operations performed and/or the services provided by such servers
can be combined or separated for a given implementation and can be
performed by a greater number or fewer number of servers. One or
more servers can be operated and/or maintained by the same or
different entities.
[0095] FIGS. 2 and 3 are flow charts that describe examples of
operation of the method for providing and using the instant
disposable payment card 150, according to embodiments thereof. Note
that one or more of the steps described herein can be combined,
omitted, or performed in a different order, as desired or
appropriate.
[0096] FIG. 2 is a flow chart showing a method for providing and
using the instant disposable payment card 150, according to an
embodiment. The user can enter a brick-and-mortar store and obtain
an unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 having the QR
code 153 from the merchant, as shown in step 201. The merchant can
stock a quantity of unactivated instant disposable payment cards
150. The quantity of unactivated instant disposable payment cards
150 can be obtained from a bank, a credit card company, payment
provider, payment card manufacturer, printer or anywhere else.
[0097] According to an embodiment, the instant disposable payment
cards 150 cannot be used to make a purchase until activated.
According to an embodiment, the instant disposable payment cards
150 can be used to make purchases prior to being activated. For
example, according to an embodiment the instant disposable payment
cards 150 can be used to make purchases of specified items, to take
advantage of specified discounts or incentives, or to shop with a
specified merchant prior to being activated
[0098] The merchant can print the unactivated instant disposable
payment card 150 for the user. The merchant can otherwise make the
unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 for the user. For
example, the merchant can be provided with an app or device that
allows the merchant to print or otherwise make a limited number or
an unlimited number of instant disposable payment cards 150 for
distribution to users. The merchant can be provided with criteria
for providing the instant disposable payment cards 150 to user. The
merchant can be allowed to provide the instant disposable payment
cards 150 to users at the merchant's discretion.
[0099] Thus, the unactivated instant disposable payment card 150
can be obtained from a merchant at a store. The unactivated instant
disposable payment card 150 can be obtained via other means. For
example, the unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 can be
obtained from a person who is not a merchant, such as a friend or
relative. The unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 can
be received from a facility that is not a store, such as a health
club, library, museum, or any other facility. The unactivated
instant disposable payment card 150 can be received from any
business or non-business entity. For example, the unactivated
instant disposable payment card 150 can be received from an
employer, church, club, or any other entity.
[0100] The unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 can be
given as a gift. For example, the unactivated instant disposable
payment card 150 can have some funds associated therewith, can
provide discounts or incentives, or can have cash or other
value.
[0101] The unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 can be
received by taking possession of a physical instant disposable
payment card 150, such as an instant disposable payment card 150
made of paper, paperboard, card stock, plastic, or any other
material. The unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 can
be received by mail, email, text message, by downloading (such as
from a website) or any other means. Thus, the unactivated the
unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 can be received as
a virtual instant disposable payment card. The virtual instant
disposable payment card can be printed as a virtual instant
disposable payment card 150.
[0102] For example, a virtual instant disposable payment card 150
can be downloaded from a website of a payment provider or from a
website of a merchant. The payment provider can be a payment
provider that owns or operates the system. The merchant can be a
merchant that participates in the system. The merchant and the
payment provider can co-own and/or can cooperate in the operation
of the system.
[0103] The user can scan the QR code 153 with the user's mobile
device 120, as shown in step 202. The QR code 153 can be a unique
code. Thus, each purchase can be readily associated with a
particular instant disposable payment card 150 and therefore, at
least to some degree, can be associated with one user and/or one
account. Information represented by the QR code can be elsewhere on
the instant disposable payment card 150. For example, such
information can be printed on the instant disposable payment card
150, embodied in another type of code such as a bar code, an SKU,
an NFC code, or an RFID code.
[0104] The QR code 153 can be a non-unique or duplicate code. That
is, a plurality of instant disposable payment cards 150 can have
the same code and thus each one of the plurality of instant
disposable payment cards 150 can be substantially identical with
respect to one another and can be associated with one account.
Thus, each purchase can be associated with a particular group of
instant disposable payment cards 150 and therefore, at least to
some degree, can be associated with a particular group of users.
For example, a business, club, or a church can want to provide
members with such a plurality of instant disposable payment cards
150 that can be associated with one account.
[0105] In response to scanning the QR code, the app 124 of the
user's mobile device 120 can be initiated and the app 124 can
automatically cooperate with payment server 130 to activate the
instant disposable payment card 150, as shown in step 203. An
unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 is not authorized
for use in purchase transactions and purchase transactions
attempted with an unactivated instant disposable payment card 150
are typically not approved, such as by the payment server 130. An
attempt to use unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 can
prompt the merchant device 110 and/or the payment server 130 to
initiate the activation process with the user who is attempting to
use the unactivated instant disposable payment card 150. For
example, the user can be presented with a form to fill out and/or
can be asked if the user would like to have the unactivated instant
disposable payment card 150 activated.
[0106] As part of the activation process, the app 124 and/or the
payment server 130 can provide the user with the form to fill out
and/or can ask the user one or more questions, as shown in step
204. The user can respond in the affirmative and/or can fill out
the form to continue the activation process. Information from the
form can be used by the payment server 130 to determine if the
unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 is to be activated,
e.g., if the user is credit worthy. This determination can be made
in a manner analogous to the determination of whether credit is to
be extended generally, such as via the use of a credit check.
[0107] Alternatively, the activation process can result in the
unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 being activated
without a determination of credit worthiness. For example, if the
amount of credit to be extended is small, the risk of default is
low (such as when the instant disposable payment card 150 is only
to be used for discounts, rentals, deposits, or the like), the
location where the instant disposable payment card 150 is to be
used is low risk, or according to any other criteria, then the
unactivated instant disposable payment card 150 can be activated
without a determination of credit worthiness.
[0108] Once activated, the instant disposable payment card 150 can
be used to make a purchase during which the merchant can scan the
instant disposable payment card 150, as shown in step 205. The
merchant can scan the instant disposable payment card 150 in a
manner similar to the manner in which the user scanned the instant
disposable payment card 150. For example, if the user scanned the
instant disposable payment card 150 using the scanner 125 of the
user device 120 to read the QR code 153, then the merchant can
similarly scan the instant disposable payment card 150 by using the
scanner 113 of the merchant device 110 to read the QR code 153.
[0109] The merchant can scan the instant disposable payment card
150 in a manner different with respect to the manner in which the
user scanned the instant disposable payment card 150. For example,
if the user scanned the instant disposable payment card 150 using
the scanner 125 of the user device 120 to read the QR code 153,
then the merchant can scan the instant disposable payment card 150
by using a bar code scanner, an SKU scanner, or an RFID the
merchant device 110 to read a bar code, SKU, or RFID code of the
instant disposable payment card 150. Thus, the instant disposable
payment card 150 can contain a plurality of codes or types of codes
that can be read or scanned in a plurality of different ways.
[0110] The user can pay for the purchase at a later time, such as
via an invoice, as shown in step 206. For example, the user can pay
using the BillSafe pay on invoice system. The user can pay for the
purchase in any desired manner.
[0111] One or more limits can be placed on the use of the instant
disposable payment card 150. For example, the instant disposable
payment card 150 can be limited to use at the same merchant where
the instant disposable payment card 150 was obtained and/or
activated, can be limited to use at a specified time or times, can
be limited to use at a specified location or locations, can be
limited to use by a specified persons (such as the user) or persons
(such as the user and others specified by the user), and/or for
specified products (such as food, clothing, school books, car
repair, and the like). The instant disposable payment card 150 can
be limited to use with any combination of criteria.
[0112] Exceptions to limitation can be permitted. For example, a
predetermined dollar amount of such exception can be permitted.
Exception can require additional authorization, such as from a
primary account holder. Exceptions can be permitted on
predetermined day, at predetermined times, and/or for predetermined
products.
[0113] FIG. 3 is a flow chart showing further detail of the method
for providing and using the instant disposable payment card 150,
according to an embodiment. The method can include storing, in one
or more memories, account information for a plurality of
pre-created instant disposable payment card accounts, the account
information including a code for each account, as shown in step
301. The one or more memories can include the memory 111 of the
merchant device 110, the memory 122 of the mobile device 120, the
memory 132 of the payment server 130, and/or any other memory or
memories.
[0114] The method can further include receiving, electronically via
one or more processors, a communication including an indication of
a desire of a user to activate an instant disposable payment card
150 associated with one of the accounts, as shown in step 302. The
one or more processors can include the processor 112 of the
merchant device 110, the processor 121 of the mobile device 120,
the processor 131 of the payment server 130, and/or any other
memory or memories.
[0115] The method can further include activating, electronically
via the one or more processors, the instant disposable payment card
150, as shown in step 303. A communication can be sent,
electronically via the one or more processors. The communication
can be sent to a device of the user including an indication that
the instant disposable payment card 150 has been activated, as
shown in step 304.
[0116] In implementation of the various embodiments, embodiments of
the invention can comprise a personal computing device, such as a
personal computer, laptop, PDA, cellular phone or other personal
computing or communication devices. The payment provider system can
comprise a network computing device, such as a server or a
plurality of servers, computers, or processors, combined to define
a computer system or network to provide the payment services
provided by a payment provider system.
[0117] In this regard, a computer system can include a bus or other
communication mechanism for communicating information, which
interconnects subsystems and components, such as a processing
component (e.g., processor, micro-controller, digital signal
processor (DSP), etc.), a system memory component (e.g., RAM), a
static storage component (e.g., ROM), a disk drive component (e.g.,
magnetic or optical), a network interface component (e.g., modem or
Ethernet card), a display component (e.g., CRT or LCD), an input
component (e.g., keyboard or keypad), and/or cursor control
component (e.g., mouse or trackball). In one embodiment, a disk
drive component can comprise a database having one or more disk
drive components.
[0118] The computer system can perform specific operations by
processor and executing one or more sequences of one or more
instructions contained in a system memory component. Such
instructions can be read into the system memory component from
another computer readable medium, such as static storage component
or disk drive component. In other embodiments, hard-wired circuitry
can be used in place of or in combination with software
instructions to implement the invention.
[0119] Payment processing can be through known methods, such as
transaction details being communicated to the payment provider
through the app, the payment provider processing the details, which
can include user account and identifier information and
authentication, merchant information, and transaction details. The
user account can be accessed to determine if any restrictions or
limitations can prevent the transaction from being approved. If
approved, the payment provider can send a notification to the
merchant and/or the user.
[0120] FIG. 4 is a block diagram of a computer system 400 suitable
for implementing one or more embodiments of the present disclosure.
In various implementations, the PIN pad and/or merchant terminal
can comprise a computing device (e.g., a personal computer, laptop,
smart phone, tablet, PDA, Bluetooth device, etc.) capable of
communicating with the network. The merchant and/or payment
provider can utilize a network computing device (e.g., a network
server) capable of communicating with the network. It should be
appreciated that each of the devices utilized by users, merchants,
and payment providers can be implemented as computer system 400 in
a manner as follows.
[0121] Computer system 400 includes a bus 402 or other
communication mechanism for communicating information data,
signals, and information between various components of computer
system 400. Components include an input/output (I/O) component 404
that processes a user action, such as selecting keys from a
keypad/keyboard, selecting one or more buttons or links, etc., and
sends a corresponding signal to bus 402. I/O component 404 can also
include an output component, such as a display 411 and a cursor
control 413 (such as a keyboard, keypad, mouse, etc.). An optional
audio input/output component 405 can also be included to allow a
user to use voice for inputting information by converting audio
signals. Audio I/O component 405 can allow the user to hear audio.
A transceiver or network interface 406 transmits and receives
signals between computer system 400 and other devices, such as a
user device, a merchant server, or a payment provider server via
network 460. In one embodiment, the transmission is wireless,
although other transmission mediums and methods can also be
suitable. A processor 412, which can be a micro-controller, digital
signal processor (DSP), or other processing component, processes
these various signals, such as for display on computer system 400
or transmission to other devices via a communication link 418.
Processor 412 can also control transmission of information, such as
cookies or IP addresses, to other devices.
[0122] Components of computer system 400 also include a system
memory component 414 (e.g., RAM), a static storage component 416
(e.g., ROM), and/or a disk drive 417. Computer system 400 performs
specific operations by processor 412 and other components by
executing one or more sequences of instructions contained in system
memory component 414. Logic can be encoded in a computer readable
medium, which can refer to any medium that participates in
providing instructions to processor 412 for execution. Such a
medium can take many forms, including but not limited to,
non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. In
various implementations, non-volatile media includes optical or
magnetic disks, volatile media includes dynamic memory, such as
system memory component 414, and transmission media includes
coaxial cables, copper wire, and fiber optics, including wires that
comprise bus 402. In one embodiment, the logic is encoded in
non-transitory computer readable medium. In one example,
transmission media can take the form of acoustic or light waves,
such as those generated during radio wave, optical, and infrared
data communications.
[0123] Some common forms of computer readable and executable media
include, for example, floppy disk, flexible disk, hard disk,
magnetic tape, any other magnetic medium, CD-ROM, any other optical
medium, punch cards, paper tape, any other physical medium with
patterns of holes, RAM, ROM, E2PROM, FLASH-EPROM, any other memory
chip or cartridge, carrier wave, or any other medium from which a
computer is adapted to read. In various embodiments, execution of
instruction sequences for practicing the invention can be performed
by a computer system. In various other embodiments, a plurality of
computer systems coupled by a communication link (e.g., LAN, WLAN,
PTSN, or various other wired or wireless networks) can perform
instruction sequences to practice the invention in coordination
with one another. Modules described herein can be embodied in one
or more computer readable media or be in communication with one or
more processors to execute or process the steps described
herein.
[0124] A computer system can transmit and receive messages, data,
information and instructions, including one or more programs (i.e.,
application code) through a communication link and a communication
interface. Received program code can be executed by a processor as
received and/or stored in a disk drive component or some other
non-volatile storage component for execution.
[0125] Where applicable, various embodiments provided by the
present disclosure can be implemented using hardware, software, or
combinations of hardware and software. Also, where applicable, the
various hardware components and/or software components set forth
herein can be combined into composite components comprising
software, hardware, and/or both without departing from the spirit
of the present disclosure. Where applicable, the various hardware
components and/or software components set forth herein can be
separated into sub-components comprising software, hardware, or
both without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. In
addition, where applicable, it is contemplated that software
components can be implemented as hardware components and
vice-versa--for example, a virtual Secure Element (vSE)
implementation or a logical hardware implementation.
[0126] Software, in accordance with the present disclosure, such as
program code and/or data, can be stored on one or more computer
readable and executable mediums. It is also contemplated that
software identified herein can be implemented using one or more
general purpose or specific purpose computers and/or computer
systems, networked and/or otherwise. Where applicable, the ordering
of various steps described herein can be changed, combined into
composite steps, and/or separated into sub-steps to provide
features described herein.
[0127] According to an embodiment, the instant disposable payment
card 150 can be for a limited number of purchases or a limited
money amount. The instant disposable payment card 150 can be for a
limited time or good until a predetermined date or event (such as
Christmas, for example). Thus, the instant disposable payment card
150 can be considered temporary or disposable. Also, according to
an embodiment, the account for the instant disposable payment card
150 can be funded only after a purchase is made. Such funding can
require user authorization. Therefore, the user is substantially
less at risk if the instant disposable payment card 150 is lost or
stolen.
[0128] Moreover, if the instant disposable payment card 150 is lost
or stolen the finder or thief has little or no access to the user's
money. The funds can be withdrawn from the instant disposable
payment card account as soon as the user notices a loss of control
over the card. The user's bank account, credit card account, or
other source of funding the account of the instant disposable
payment card 150 can be effectively isolated from the unauthorized
or illegitimate activities of a fraudster or thief.
[0129] According to an embodiment, the instant disposable payment
card 150, once activated, can be used in a fashion that is similar
to the fashion in which a credit card, debit card, gift card, or
payment provider card is used. According to an embodiment, the
instant disposable payment card 150, once activated, can be used in
a fashion that is the same as the fashion in which a credit card,
debit card, gift card, or payment provider card is used. Thus, use
of the instant disposable payment card 150 can be substantially
identical to use of a credit card or the like.
[0130] A user can activate and carry a plurality of the instant
disposable payment cards 150. Each of the instant disposable
payment cards 150 can have a predetermined amount of funding or
potential funding associated therewith. Each of the instant
disposable payment cards 150 can have the same or a different
amount of funding associated therewith, Each of the instant
disposable payment cards 150 can be used in different stores. A
plurality of the instant disposable payment cards 150 can be used
in one store. The instant disposable payment cards 150 can have
denominations or money amounts thereon, such as printed or embossed
thereon. Thus, the instant disposable payment cards 150 can be used
in a fashion similar to the use of cash. The instant disposable
payment cards 150 can be used in higher risk places, such as bars,
where the use of cash, credit cards, and checks is less
desirable.
[0131] As used herein, the term "store" can include any business or
place of business. The store can be a brick and mortar store or an
online store. The store can be any person or entity that sells a
product.
[0132] As used herein, the term "product" can include any item or
service. Thus, the term "product" can refer to physical products,
digital goods, services, or anything for which a user can make a
payment, including charitable donations. A product can be anything
that can be sold. Examples of products include cellular telephones,
concerts, meals, hotel rooms, automotive repair, haircuts, digital
music, and books. The product can be a single item or a plurality
of items. For example, the product can be a tube of toothpaste, a
box of laundry detergent, three shirts, and a donut.
[0133] As used herein, the term "merchant" can include any seller
of products. The term merchant can include a store. The products
can be sold from a store or in any other manner.
[0134] As used herein, the term "mobile device" can include any
portable electronic device that can facilitate data communications,
such as via a cellular network and/or the Internet. Examples of
mobile devices include cellular telephones, smart phones, tablet
computers, and laptop computers. The mobile device can be any
device with which the instant disposable payment card can be
scanned.
[0135] As used herein, the term "network" can include one or more
local area networks (LANs) such as business networks, one or more
wide area networks (WANs) such as the Internet, one or more
cellular telephone networks, or any other type or combination of
electronic or optical networks.
[0136] As used herein, the terms "card" and "payment card" can
refer to any card or other device that can be used to make a
purchase in place of cash. For example, the card can be a bank
card, credit card, debit card, gift card, payment provider card, or
other device. The card can be a token, such as a hardware token or
a software token. The card can be stored in and/or displayed upon a
user device, such as a cellular telephone. The card can be a
virtual card.
[0137] As used herein, the term "scan" can refer to any process for
determining a code or other information, such as from the instant
disposable payment card. Thus, scanning can include reading or
imaging a QR code, a bar code, an SKU, an NFC code, and RFID code,
or any other code.
[0138] Although a QR code is referred to herein, such reference is
by way of example only and not by way of limitation. A QR code, a
bar code, an SKU, an NFC code, an RFID code, as well as any other
code or combination of codes can be used.
[0139] As used herein, the term "instant" can refer to a short
period of time. Thus, an instant disposable payment card can be a
payment card that can be obtained and activated in a short period
of time as compared to the amount of time that it takes to obtain
and active a contemporary payment or credit card. For example, it
can take days or weeks to obtain and activate a contemporary credit
card, whereas it can take a few minutes to obtain and activate the
instant disposable payment card discussed herein.
[0140] As used herein, the term "disposable" can refer to a payment
card that can be used as much or as little as desired and can then
be discarded. Thus, the instant disposable payment card can be used
for one, two, three, four, five, or more purchases. Thus, the
instant disposable payment card can be used for no purchases, for
refundable deposits, for rental, or for any other purpose.
[0141] Activation, funding, fund withdrawal and deactivation can be
done by the system automatically or by the user, such as by using
the payment system provider facility. The card can also be
deactivated and funds withdrawn when not the funds are needed or
when the card is stolen or lost. Thus, the user's money and/or
accounts can more safely be isolated from thieves and
fraudsters.
[0142] The foregoing disclosure is not intended to limit the
present invention to the precise forms or particular fields of use
disclosed. It is contemplated that various alternate embodiments
and/or modifications to the present invention, whether explicitly
described or implied herein, are possible in light of the
disclosure. Having thus described various example embodiments of
the disclosure, persons of ordinary skill in the art will recognize
that changes can be made in form and detail without departing from
the scope of the invention. Thus, the invention is limited only by
the claims.
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