INFORMATIONSUEBERMITTLUNGSSYSTEM ZUR ZUVERLAESSIGEN BESTIMMUNG DER ECHTHEIT EINER VIELZAHL VON DOKUMENTEN

Verfahren zur Erzeugung und Registrierung von Grundschlüsseln

Robustes System zur Erzeugung und Überprüfung von digitalen Wertmarken mit Wertmarkenüberprüfung wo es unmöglich ist, die Empfängerinformation in einer automatisierten Poststückverarbeitung neu zu erstellen

Verfahren zum gesicherten Speichern von veränderlichen Daten

Postage meter system having bit-mapped indicia image security

A deterrent to counterfeiting of indicias on mailpieces is provided in a method and apparatus using a customized printhead or customized printer drivers such that the dots of the bit-mapped printing are produced by the printer in unevenly spaced rows (32a - d) or columns (28a - f). The bit-mapping is unique to the printer used. The dot size may also be varied in accordance with data from the meter, printed value, variable data such as the date, and forensic data suitably encrypted. When the indicia is scanned, the variations are readily detectable and the information is easily extracted by Postal Authorities. ...

FRANKING SYSTEM

FRANKING SYSTEM.

System and method for distributing, printing and authentication of postage indicia over a network

System and method for remote postage metering

Virtual postage metering system

Encrypted mail monitoring and data retrieval system

Postal counter postage evidencing system with closed loop verification

SYSTEM FOR DETECTING UNACCOUNTED FOR PRINTING IN A VALUE PRINTING SYSTEM

SYSTEM FOR DETECTING UNACCOUNTED FOR PRINTING IN A VALUE PRINTING SYSTEM ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE A system for detecting fraudulent imprints on documents is disclosed. The system comprises a metering device, a host and a verifying facility. The metering device provides a validation signal to the host and its associated printer. Thereafter, the printer prints information which includes information from the validation signal. Thereafter the information printed on a mailpiece can be validated at the verifying facility by detecting the validation information provided by the metering device. The system provides a method to make a secure metering device without an integral printer. This value printing system provides for a secure system that will allow for the detection of fraudulent imprints at a verifying facility.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RELIABLE TRANSFER OF VIRTUAL STAMP

The present application describes systems and methods for reliable transfer of information of value such as virtual postage stamps between a remote data center and a local device. An identifier that is unique over at least some time duration is assigned to each virtual postage stamp such that the identifier is associated with a specific index memory location or record storage location in the local virtual stamp-printing device. The local printing device permits only a single use of a virtual stamp using a secure state flag. The transfer protocol provides reliable transfer of virtual stamps between the remote data center and the local printing device that accommodates resend requests, that is not limited to serial transfer and that does not require end-to-end acknowledgements.

POSTAGE SECURITY DEVICE HAVING CRYPTOGRAPHIC KEYS WITH A VARIABLE KEY LENGTH

A cryptographic method for providing a level of security by a postage security device (60), which generates a digital token (62) using a cryptographic key (64). When it is required to make a key change in order to improve the level of security, the postage security device (60) replaces the cryptographic key (64) with a new cryptographic key, wherein the new cryptographic key has a key length that is equal to or greater than the replaced cryptographic key. The new cryptographic key can be generated by the postage security device (60) based on a given key length, or selected from a plurality of replacement keys stored in a storage device (54).

A METHOD OF INHIBITING TOKEN GENERATION IN AN OPEN METERING SYSTEM

A method is provided for inhibiting the generation of digital tokens in an open metering system that includes a host processor and a vault. The method includes the steps of generating in the host processor a first digital token request that corresponds to a first destination identifier and a first postage amount; determining in the host processor if one of the first destination identifier and the first postage amount is different than a prior destination identifier and a prior postage amount, respectively, that correspond to an immediately preceding digital token request; sending the first digital token request to the vault when the first destination identifier and the first postage amount are different than the prior destination identifier and the prior postage amount, respectively; and rejecting the first digital token request when the first destination identifier and the first postage amount are different than the prior destination identifier and the prior postage amount, respectively ...

METHOD OF MAPPING DESTINATION ADDRESSES FOR USE IN CALCULATING DIGITAL TOKENS

A method of creating an open system digital token includes sending predetermined information to a digital token generation process. A set of characters are randomly selected from the predetermined information. A mapping algorithm is applied to the selected characters to facilitate a character recognition process and a random number algorithm is applied to the mapped selected characters to obtain a random number. A digital token is calculated using the random number. The predetermined information may be delivery address information in the form of an ASCII string which is reduced by eliminating certain non-alphanumeric characters from the ASCII string. Certain characters can be modified to facilitate OCR processing. A plurality of characters are randomly selected from the reduced ASCII string to determine random positions in the reduced ASCII string. The ASCII code of the selected characters are mapped to the code of a reduced space using a mapping table. The mapped delivery address information ...

METHOD OF LIMITING KEY USAGE IN A POSTAGE METERING SYSTEM THAT PRODUCES CRYPTOGRAPHICALLY SECURED INDICIUM

A method for requiring that a key used in a cryptographic apparatus be changed includes the steps of: storing a constraint value for a non-time parameter of the cryptographic apparatus, the non-time parameter being related to the operation of the cryptographic apparatus; and requiring the key to be changed when an actual value of the non-time parameter is not within a range defined by the constraint value.

METHOD OF LIMITING KEY USAGE IN A POSTAGE METERING SYSTEM THAT PRODUCES CRYPTOGRAPHICALLY SECURED INDICIUM

A method for requiring that a key used in a cryptographic apparatus be changed includes the steps of: storing a constraint value for a non-time parameter of the cryptographic apparatus, the non-time parameter being related to the operation of the cryptographic apparatus; and requiring the key to be changed when an actual value of the non-time parameter is not within a range defined by the constraint value.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A POSTAGE METERING SYSTEM USING DATA REQUIRED FOR PRINTING

A method for controlling a postage metering system (1) defines a first set of postage parameters P1, P2, P3 to Pn associated with the generation of postage evidence in a postage metering system (10) and then initializes the postage metering system (10) with a subset of the first set of postage parameters F1, F2, F3 to Fn. The subset F1, F2, F3 to Fn defines a combination of the postage parameters for which the generation of postage evidence is not authorized. When a request for postage evidence is received, the request includes a second set of postage parameters P1, P2, P3 to Pn that are combined to form a postage parameter vector (PPV). The generation of postage evidence is inhibited when at least one of the postage parameters P1, P2, P3 to Pn in the second set matches one of the postage parameters in the first set F1, F2, F3 to Fn. When none of the postage parameters P1, P2, P3 to Pn in the second set matches one of the postage parameters in the first set F1, F2, F3 to Fn the requested postage evidence is generated. In an alternative method the subset defines a combination of the postage parameters for which the generation of postage evidence is authorized, and the requested postage evidence is generated when each of the postage parameters in the first set matches one of the postage parameters in the second set.

PROCEDURE AND DEVICE FOR APPLYING A STAMP ON A PARCEL WITH THE HELP OF A PRINTER.

DEVICE FOR AUTHENTICATION OF A MULTIPLICITY OF DOCUMENTS.

DEVICE FOR IMPRINTING STAMPS.

PLANT FOR THE ATTACHMENT OF CODED INFORMATION ON A PARCEL, PROCEDURE FOR THE ENTERPRISE OF THIS PLANT AND PLANT FOR THE LEGALIZATION OF THE PARCEL.

SYSTEM TO DETECT an IMPRESSION NOT COMPTABILISEE IN a SYSTEM Of NOTE PRINTING

CE SYSTEME POUR DETECTER DES IMPRESSIONS FRAUDULEUSES SUR DES DOCUMENTS COMPREND UN COMPTEUR 1, UN ORDINATEUR CENTRAL 2 ET UN APPAREIL 3 DE VERIFICATION. LE COMPTEUR 1 FOURNIT UN SIGNAL DE VALIDATION A L'ORDINATEUR CENTRAL ET A SON IMPRIMANTE ASSOCIEE. L'IMPRIMANTE IMPRIME ENSUITE DES INFORMATIONS QUI COMPRENNENT DES INFORMATIONS PROVENANT DU SIGNAL DE VALIDATION. LES INFORMATIONS IMPRIMEES SUR UN ARTICLE DE COURRIER PEUVENT ENSUITE ETRE VALIDEES SUR L'APPAREIL 3 DE VERIFICATION EN DETECTANT L'INFORMATION DE VALIDATION FOURNIE PAR LE COMPTEUR 1. LE SYSTEME FOURNIT UN PROCEDE POUR REALISER UN DISPOSITIF COMPTEUR PROTEGE SANS IMPRIMANTE INCORPOREE. CE SYSTEME D'IMPRESSION DE VALEURS EST PROTEGE ET PERMET LA DETECTION D'IMPRIMES FRAUDULEUX SUR UN APPAREIL DE VERIFICATION 3. THIS SYSTEM FOR DETECTING FRAUDULENT PRINTS ON DOCUMENTS INCLUDES COUNTER 1, CENTRAL COMPUTER 2 AND VERIFICATION 3. COUNTER 1 PROVIDES A VALIDATION SIGNAL TO THE CENTRAL COMPUTER AND ITS ASSOCIATED PRINTER. THE PRINTER THEN PRINTS INFORMATION THAT INCLUDES INFORMATION FROM THE VALIDATION SIGNAL. THE INFORMATION PRINTED ON A MAIL ITEM CAN THEN BE VALIDATED ON THE VERIFICATION DEVICE 3 BY DETECTING THE VALIDATION INFORMATION PROVIDED BY THE METER 1. THE SYSTEM PROVIDES A PROCESS FOR ACHIEVING A PROTECTED METER DEVICE WITHOUT AN EMBEDDED PRINTER. THIS VALUE PRINTING SYSTEM IS PROTECTED AND ALLOWS THE DETECTION OF FRAUDULENT PRINTS ON A VERIFICATION DEVICE 3.

SISTEMA E METODO DE APLICACAO DE SELAGEM NAO PROTEGIDA

TRACEABLE BUSINESS REPLY ENVELOPES

A system (30) for forming a traceable mailpiece (42) including an address database (34) including at least one address to be placed on a mailer for the traceable mailpiece and a postal security device adapted to provide verifiable indicia (46). A controller (40) relates the address from the database with an unique information based indicia to create a unique identifier indicia for the traceable mailpiece and a printer (38) prints the unique identifier indicia on the traceable mailpiece, wherein the unique identifier allows the traceable mailpiece to be traced back to the address placed on the mailer.

Postal indicia generating system and method

A method for generating a postal indicia associated with a mailpiece is disclosed. The method includes generating an indicia data stream including a postal information segment and a security segment that is based upon the postal information segment and modifying a portion of the security segment to include additional information , thereby defining a modified indicia data stream.

System and method for reliable transfer of virutal stamps

The present application describes systems and methods for reliable transfer of information of value such as virtual postage stamps between a remote data center and a local device. An identifier that is unique over at least some time duration is assigned to each virtual postage stamp such that the identifier is associated with a specific index memory location or record storage location in the local virtual stamp-printing device. The local printing device permits only a single use of a virtual stamp using a secure state flag. The transfer protocol provides reliable transfer of virtual stamps between the remote data center and the local printing device that accommodates resend requests, that is not limited to serial transfer and that does not require end-to-end acknowledgements.

A method for inhibiting token generation in an open metering system

A method is provided for inhibiting the generation of digital tokens in an open metering system that includes a host processor and a vault. The method includes the steps of generating in the host processor a first digital token request that corresponds to a first destination identifier and a first postage amount; determining in the host processor if one of the first destination identifier and the first postage amount is different than a prior destination identifier and a prior postage amount, respectively, that correspond to an immediately preceding digital token request; sending the first digital token request to the vault when the first destination identifier and the first postage amount are different than the prior destination identifier and the prior postage amount, respectively; and rejecting the first digital token request when the first destination identifier and the first postage amount are different than the prior destination identifier and the prior postage amount, respectively. The method includes the further steps of notifying a user when the first destination identifier and the first postage amount are the same as the prior destination identifier and the prior postage amount; providing the user with a capability to confirm that the first digital token request is valid; and sending the first digital token request to the vault when the user confirms that the first digital token request is valid.

Token generation process in an open metering system

A method of issuing digital tokens in a open system meter comprising the steps of: sending a request for digital tokens and predetermined postal information, including addressee information, from a host processor to a vault that is operatively coupled to the host processor; calculating in the vault in response to the request for tokens at least one digital token using the predetermined postal information; debiting postal funds in the vault; issuing the digital token to the host processor; and storing the digital token and the predetermined postal information as a transaction record in the host processor for subsequent generation and printing of an indicia.

Franking system

Verfahren und System zur Sicherheitserhöhung und zur Prüfung und Steuerung von einem kryptographischen Schlüssel

Verfahren und Anordnung zur Uberprüfung eines Sicherheitsabdruckes

SYSTEM ZUR ERMITTLUNG VON NICHT-ABGERECHNETEN DRUCKEN

Frankiersystem.

UNSECURED POSTAGE APPLYING SYSTEM

An unsecured postage applying system wherein the printer 30 and metering unit 14 are separated from one another by an unsecured link. The printer may be of any "off-the-shelf" type that is capable of printing alpha numerics or bar codes. More than one printer can be connected to a single metering unit to provide a network of printers accommodated by the one metering unit, Figure 3. The secure metering unit 14 encloses accounting and encryption modules 24,22; an encryption message is generated in the metering unit, and is transmitted for printing on the mail piece together with the postage value, Figure 2, for subsequent verification in the postal sorting system. The printer 30 is limited to metering unit 14 through user computer 28, or forms part of a word-processor, Figure 3. ...

UNSECURED POSTAGE APPLYING SYSTEM AND METHOD

Postage meter system and verification of postage charges

Secure communication system

PROCEDURE FOR CO-ORDINATING THE VOLUME OF DATA BETWEEN AN ELECTRONIC FRANKING MACHINE AND A DATA CENTER

SYSTEM FOR DETECTING UNACCOUNTED FOR PRINTING IN A VALUE PRINTING SYSTEM

SECURE TRACKING OF ARTICLES

A secure tracking system and method of tracking for articles which are secure and include authentication and verification of users and user devices for data and information access and input (Fig. 1). Each article to be tracked is provided with a unique secure indicia applied to the article and through which chronological histories are generated and maintained from creation of each article until at least the time when article is scrapped or otherwise destroyed. The articles can include manufactured components (24), assemblies, device and equipment for aircraft, automotive, military and other users, as well as jewelry and works of art.

ENCRYPTED MAIL MONITORING AND DATA RETRIEVAL SYSTEM

An encrypted mail monitoring and data retrieval system employing POSTNET (Postal Numeric Encoding Technique) PLANET (Postal Alpha-Numeric Encoding Technique) and CONFIRM (Computerized On-Line Notification For Inbound Reply Mail) techniques to allow the U.S.P.S. to read, record, collect, transmit and retrieve encrypted data on articles of mail (1); wherein the data is indicative of the origin, content, location, destination, etc. pertaining to the individual articles of mail; and, wherein the USPS will then selectively transmit portions of the collected data to subscribers of the new system.

TOKEN GENERATION PROCESS IN AN OPEN METERING SYSTEM

A method of issuing digital tokens in a open system meter includes the steps of sending a request for digital tokens and predetermined postal information, including addressee information, from a host processor to a vault that is operatively coupled to the host processor; calculating in the vault in response to the request for tokens at least one digital token using the predetermined postal information; debiting postal funds in the vault; issuing the digital token to the host processor; and storing the digital token and the predetermined postal information as a transaction record in the host processor for subsequent generation and printing of an indicia. The method further includes the steps of generating in the host processor an indicia comprising a graphical image of the digital token and the predetermined postal information and storing the indicia in the host processor; and printing the indicia on a mailpiece when requested.

METHOD FOR ACCESS CONTROL IN A VIRTUAL POSTAGE METERING SYSTEM

A method of remotely accessing a postage security account at a data center from a remote user device begins with a remote user assigning a password to the user's postage security account at a data center. A cryptographic key corresponding to the user's postage security account is provided to the remote user device and is stored at the data center. The password and the cryptographic key are combined at the remote user device and the data center respectively to obtain a user authentication key. An authentication algorithm is performed using the user authentication key to obtain a remote access message. The remote access message is sent to the data center to initiate request for access to the postage security account by the remote user device. The remote user device is authenticated for accessing the postage security account when the data center verifies the remote access message.

ROBUST DIGITAL TOKEN GENERATION AND VERIFICATION SYSTEM ACCOMMODATING TOKEN VERIFICATION WHERE ADDRESSEE INFORMATION CANNOT BE RECREATED IN AUTOMATED MAIL PROCESSING

A method for generating evidencing information for a document includes generating an error correction code and generating a digital token employing the error correction code. A method for verifying authentication and integrity information printed on a mail piece includes obtaining an error correction code printed on the document and employing the obtained error correction code to verify the validity of the evidencing information. A method for verifying the evidencing information printed on a mail piece includes obtaining an error correction code printed on a mail piece and determining that the obtained error correction code is inaccurate. The information employed to generate the inaccurate error correction code is obtained and an error correction code is generated from the obtained information. The generated error correction code is employed to verify the validity of the evidencing information. The document may be a mail piece and the evidencing information postage evidencing information ...

Closed system virtual postage meter

POSTAGE SECURITY DEVICE HAVING CRYPTOGRAPHIC KEYS WITH A VARIABLE KEY LENGTH

A cryptographic method for providing a level of security by a postage security device, which generates a digital token using a cryptographic key. When it is required to make a key change in order to improve the level of security, the postage security devices replaces the cryptographic key with a new cryptographic key, wherein the new cryptographic key has a key length that is equal to or greater than the replaced cryptographic key. The new cryptographic key can be generated by the postage security device based on a given key length, or selected from a plurality of replacement keys stored in a storage device.

Apparatus and method for electronic debiting of funds from a postage meter

A method for remotely removing funds from a postage meter includes the steps of establishing communication between the postage meter and a remotely located data center; sending current postage meter accounting register readings to the data center; validating at the data center the current postage meter accounting register readings; sending, from the data center to the postage meter, an instruction to debit the postage meter accounting registers by a predetermined amount without the postage meter dispensing an indication of value; effecting a funds refill process within the postage meter whereby remote refill keys within the postage meter are diversified.

Service and usage data collection using a special mail piece

A monitoring system that determines the amount and type of customers' usage of machines and equipment without having a representative of the manufacturer physically inspect the customers machines and equipment. The monitoring system utilizes a mailpiece to transmit information about the customers' usage of customers machines and equipment.

System and method for remote postage metering

A system and method for remote postage metering of postage indicia, including demanding a desired postage amount and subsequently printing the postage indicia onto a piece of mail. A user inputs certain necessary information, as well as additional desired information, into a local processor-based system. The local system then assembles a postage demand in suitable format and transmits the same to a remote postage metering device. The remote postage metering device then verifies the demand for authority to demand and valid funding. Upon verification, the remote postage meter assembles a data packet representing an authorized postage indicia. The data packet is transmitted to the local system for printing. Printing of the postage indicia may be unaccompanied, or may include additional information. Such additional information may include destination and return address, machine readable routing or identification information, or a complete document to be posted.

Electronic postage scales system and method

In an improved postage scales system, soft-selection keys are used for selecting options including shipping service options provided by the system. The soft keys are multi-function, being assigned a function according to previous selections input through the soft keys. A changeable indication of the function of each soft key appears on teh screen in alignment therewith. The system is capable of interfacing and communicating with other devices such as a printer, a remote computer, an optical scanner, an integrated circuit (IC) card, etc. Certain data and code for use in the system can be updated by downloading new data and code from IC cards to the system. A security measure is instituted such that, after an update of the data or code, a system user is required to enter a valid authorization number in order to enable the system. Such a measure is, in part, necessary for deterring unauthorized copying of software of the system onto another similar system. ...

Wertvariables Wertzeichen

Die Erfindung betrifft eine Wertmarke (1) mit variablem und zuordbarem definiertem Wert, jedoch ohne lesbare Wertangabe, mit einer Trägerschicht, mit auf der Trägerschicht oder in der Trägerschicht angebrachtem maschinenlesbarem Individualisierungscode, insbesondere Kundenidentcode (2) und/oder Transaktionscode (3), sowie ein Verfahren zur entgeltlichen Beförderung einer Postsendung.

Verfahren zur Begrenzung der Schlüsselbenutzung in einem Frankiersystem welches kryptographisch gesicherte Briefmarken produziert

Verfahren und Anordnung zur Erzeugung und Überprüfung eines Sicherheitsabdruckes

Method of generating a postage mark

A method of generating a postage mark suitable for use in a method of authenticating a postage mark, the method comprising the steps of providing a plain text, user readable representation of a plurality of information items in one component of said postage mark, and encoding or encrypting a plurality of information items in another component of the postage mark.

SYSTEM FOR DETECTING UNACCOUNTED FOR PRINTING IN A VALUE PRINTING SYSTEM

PROCEDURE FOR SECURED STORING OF VARIABLE DATA

UNSECURED POSTAGE APPLYING SYSTEM

Method for access control in a virtual postage metering system

System and method for controlling a postage metering using data required for printing

POSTAGE INFORMATION APPLYING SYSTEM

A method and apparatus for printing marks

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR RELIABLE TRANSFER OF VIRTUAL STAMPS

The present application describes systems and methods for reliable transfer of information of value such as virtual postage stamps between a remote data center and a local device. An identifier that is unique over at least some time duration is assigned to each virtual postage stamp such that the identifier is associated with a specific index memory location or record storage location in the local virtual stamp-printing device. The local printing device permits only a single use of a virtual stamp using a secure state flag. The transfer protocol provides reliable transfer of virtual stamps between the remote data center and the local printing device that accommodates resend requests, that is not limited to serial transfer and that does not require end-to-end acknowledgements.

ACTIVATABLE POSTAGE

Aspects of the technology described herein provide an activatable postage. As an initial step, the activatable postage is printed on a media, such as an envelope or sticker. Initially, the activatable postage has no postage value and will not have any value until activated. Each instance of activatable postage comprises a unique identifier encoded in a machine-readable format. Postage value is added to the activatable postage through an activation process. In order to activate an individual instance of activatable postage, the unique identifier encoded in the activatable postage needs to be provided to the activation application. At the end of the activation process, a central database is updated to associate the unique identifier with a postal value calculated during activation. When the Postal Service receives an item with activatable postage it authenticates the activatable postage and then deactivates the activatable postage by updating the central database.

METHOD FOR RETREIVING MAILPIECE TRACKING DETAILS USING MAILPIECE IMAGES

A method for retrieving mail tracking details of a mailpiece sent to a recipient using a stored image of the mailpiece. A mailpiece is provided with a unique mailpiece tracking identifier and the identifier is stored in a database. An image of the mailpiece is then acquired and also stored in the database in association with the unique mailpiece tracking identifier. Mailpiece tracking details for the mailpiece are then acquired as the mailpiece is delivered to a recipient, which tracking details are stored in the database in association with the mailpiece tracking identifier and stored image. A user seeking the particular tracking details is then presented with at least one stored image of a mailpiece, and when an image is selected by a user, the user is presented with the mail tracking details that were stored in association with the selected mailpiece image.

IMPROVED MAILPIECE TRACKING

A method and system to process and track mailpieces. A code is printed on the mailpiece that can include an identification of a metering device generating the code and a subscriber number of a subscriber generating the mailpiece. The code is scanned during a processing step in a mailpiece delivery system, wherein information associated with the scanned code is stored in a database accessible by the user and allowing the user to track a movement of the mailpiece in the mailpiece delivery system.

DEVICE FOR PROCESSING MAIL IN MOTION

Ce dispositif de traitement de courrier comporte, un module d'alimentation (10) d'articles, un module de pesée (12) et un module d'affranchissement (14). Le module de pesée (12) comporte des moyens (30) de régulation de la vitesse de défilement des moyens de transport (22) du module de pesée (12), adaptés à prendre en compte la durée de pesée des articles de courrier.

METHOD FOR PROVIDING A REFUND FOR INDICIUM-BASED POSTAGE

A refund processing system and method where mailpiece identification information carried in first indicia is embedded in second indicia. Second indicia are stored in a database. A refund processor receives a request for a refund that includes identifiers of mailpieces for which a postage refund is sought. The refund processor determines if a corresponding second indicia is stored in the database, if any such indicia is authentic and monitors the mailstream to determine if any mailpiece corresponding to the identifier in the refund request is processed by the carrier. If an authentic second indicia is found that corresponds to the mailpiece and the mailpiece identifier is not detected in the mailstream, the refund is processed and the requester's account is credited to an amount equal to the postage borne by the second indicia.

Token Generation Process in an Open Metering System

ADVANCE POSTAGE PAYMENT SYSTEM EMPLOYING PRE-COMPUTED DIGITAL TOKENS AND WITH ENHANCED SECURITY

A method and system for postage payment include the generation of a plurality of dispensable discrete items of encrypted data. Each of said items of encrypted data, which may be digital tokens, have a specific value. The generated plurality of discrete items of encrypted data are stored on a portable medium. A prepayment value is also stored on the portable medium. The stored plurality of discrete items of encrypted which are dispensable is limited based on the prepayment value stored on the portable medium. The medium may be a device or member having memory means for storing a plurality of dispensable tokens. Mean account for digital tokens dispensed from the memory means. The portable member or device may have a housing with a register means within said housing. The postage prepayment value is stored in the register. The plurality of discrete items of encrypted data is stored in the housing with each of the items of encrypted data adapted to be formatted for printing. Means within said ...

SECURE USER CERTIFICATION FOR ELECTRONIC COMMERCE EMPLOYING VALUE METERING SYSTEM

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

METERING INCOMING DELIVERABLE MAIL

A system in which originating mail processors would upload pertinent mail piece information on addressees, pointers or other identifiers automatically and periodically to a data center. The recipient addressee of the mail piece would temporarily configure his digital postage meter or mail processor as a mail rece iver so that the postage meter or mail processor would read the digital indicia that was affixed to the currently delivered incoming mail. The incoming mail would be date/time stamped, opened (optionally) and the unique identifier that was placed in the postal indicia would be read. The recipient meter or mail processor would periodically upload to the data center raw data on the unique identifiers or cod es that have been received. If, the received unique identifiers or codes match with the sender unique identifiers or codes in a reasonable amount of time, as would norm ally be the case, the sent and received codes cancel out, or are kept for statistical information on delivery ...

VIRTUAL POSTAGE METER WITH SECURE DIGITAL SIGNATURE DEVICE

A system (10) and method of evidencing postage payment includes a data center (3) with a database (36) having a plurality of meter records (64) stored therein. Each meter record (64) includes meter information corresponding to a metering account assigned to each of a plurality of remote user devices (20, 22) that are authorized to request evidence of postage payment. When a request for postage (100) is received at the data center (30), a secure co-processor device (44) in the data center (3) obtains the appropriate meter record (64) and verifies the authenticity of the meter record (64) by verifying a signature (205, 210) in the meter record (64) and comparing freshness data (220, 225) in the meter record (64) to freshness data in the secure device (44). If verified, the secure device (44) then accounts for an amount of postage to be evidenced (130), generates evidence of postage payment (130) and updates the meter information, including the freshness data (130), in the meter record (64 ...

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR LINKING AN INDICIUM WITH A MAILPIECE IN A CLOSED SYSTEM POSTAGE METER

System and method is provided for adding addressing information to an indicium printed by a closed system metering device. A scanning device is coupled to a closed system postage meter for scanning addressing information printed on a mailpiece. The addressing information is combined with other information relating to the postage payment for the mailpiece to obtain postal data relating to the mailpiece. The postal data, including the addressing information is used to generate an indicium for the mailpiece. The indicium includes cryptographic evidencing of postage payment. The closed system metering device prints the indicium on the mailpiece.

Express number and management application system thereof

SYSTEM INFORMATION APPLICATION ADDRESS AND POSTAGE ON A MAILPIECE

FRANKING METHOD AND POSTAGE MODULE

In order to reduce unauthorised manipulations during the franking process of postage items, such as letters or the like, using a personal computer and a standard printer, the present invention comprises generating signs which are coded using random real numbers, user's identification numbers as well as the date and the counter position of the personal-computer franking system, and printing said signs in the form of bar-codes on the postage item. Due to the easily-readable bar-code and to the connections between the above-mentioned data that only the post office is aware of, said authorising post office can continuously check the franking addressed to it.

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR CONTROLLING A POSTAGE METERING USING DATA REQUIRED FOR PRINTING

A method for controlling a postage metering system (1) defines a first set of postage parameters P1, P2, P3 to Pn associated with the generation of postage evidence in a postage metering system (10) and then initializes the postage metering system (10) with a subset of the first set of postage parameters F1, F2, F3 to Fn. The subset F1, F2, F3 to Fn defines a combination of the postage parameters for which the generation of postage evidence is not authorized. When a request for postage evidence is received, the request includes a second set of postage parameters P1, P2, P3 to Pn that are combined to form a postage parameter vector (PPV). The generation of postage evidence is inhibited when at least one of the postage parameters P1, P2, P3 to Pn in the second set matches one of the postage parameters in the first set F1, F2, F3 to Fn. When none of the postage parameters P1, P2, P3 to Pn in the second set matches one of the postage parameters in the first set F1, F2, F3 to Fn the requested ...

Token generation process in an open metering system

A method of issuing digital tokens in a open system meter includes the steps of sending a request for digital tokens and predetermined postal information, including addressee information, from a host processor to a vault that is operatively coupled to the host processor; calculating in the vault in response to the request for tokens at least one digital token using the predetermined postal information; debiting postal funds in the vault; issuing the digital token to the host processor; and storing the digital token and the predetermined postal information as a transaction record in the host processor for subsequent generation and printing of an indicia. The method further includes the steps of generating in the host processor an indicia comprising a graphical image of the digital token and the predetermined postal information and storing the indicia in the host processor; and printing the indicia on a mailpiece when requested.

Electronic postage scales system and method

In an improved postage scales system, soft-selection keys are used for selecting options including shipping service options provided by the system. The soft keys are multi-function, being assigned a function according to previous selections input through the soft keys. A changeable indication of the function of each soft key appears on teh screen in alignment therewith. The system is capable of interfacing and communicating with other devices such as a printer, a remote computer, an optical scanner, an integrated circuit (IC) card, etc. Certain data and code for use in the system can be updated by downloading new data and code from IC cards to the system. A security measure is instituted such that, after an update of the data or code, a system user is required to enter a valid authorization number in order to enable the system. Such a measure is, in part, necessary for deterring unauthorized copying of software of the system onto another similar system.

Fernaktivierung softwaregesteuerter Merkmale eines mit einer elektronischen Frankiermaschiene verbundenen Gerätes.

Authenticating postage marks

A method of authenticating a postage mark includes the steps of:
```extracting an item of information from one component of the mark 152,
```extracting a corresponding item of information from a database 158;
```comparing the items of information extracted from the postage mark
and the database 156, and
```determining the validity of the postage mark on the basis of said comparison. For example the postage mark may be declared invalid if a unique number encoded therein is stored in the database 156 indicating that it has previously been used.

Postage mark

A method of generating a postage mark suitable for use in a method of authenticating a postage mark, the method comprising the steps of providing a plain text, user readable representation of a plurality of information items in one component of said postage mark, and encoding or encrypting a plurality of information items in another component of the postage mark.

System and method for linking an indicium with a mailpiece in a closed system postage meter

Traceable business reply envelopes

METHOD OF MANUFACTURING GENERIC METERS IN A KEY MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

A method of manufacturing transaction evidencing devices, such as digital postage meters, includes the steps of generating a master key in a logical security domain of a Key Management System; installing the master key into a digital postage meter; verifying the installation of the master key; and registering the master key to a logical security sub-domain in the Key Management System. The step of generating the master key further includes the steps of generating a domain; generating at least one sub-domain; installing the domain in secure boxes of the Key Management System; generating a master key and test token within the domain; and recording the master key in the domain archive. The step of installing the master key further includes the steps of installing the master key into a digital meter; and associating the master key with a unique device identifier. The step of registering the master key to a logical security sub-domain in the Key Management System further includes the steps of assigning a sub-domain to the digital meter; installing a postal identifier into the digital meter; associating the postal identifier to the unique device identifier; generating a registration token in the digital meter based on the postal identifier and the unique device identifier; generating registration tokens using the master key recorded in the archives; verifying that the registration tokens are identical; and recording the master key in the sub-domain. The steps are repeated for each domain assigned to the digital postage meter.

Encryption Key Control System for Mail Processing System Having Data Center Verification

METHOD FOR ACCESS CONTROL IN A VIRTUAL POSTAGE METERING SYSTEM

A method of remotely accessing a postage security account at a data center from a remote user device begins with a remote user assigning a password to the user's postage security account at a data center. A cryptographic key corresponding to the user's postage security account is provided to the remote user device and is stored at the data center. The password and the cryptographic key are combined at the remote user device and the data center respectively to obtain a user authentication key. An authentication algorithm is performed using the user authentication key to obtain a remote access message. The remote access message is sent to the data center to initiate request for access to the postage security account b y the remote user device. The remote user device is authenticated for accessing the postage security account when the data center verifies the remote access message.

VIRTUAL POSTAGE METERING SYSTEM

A virtual postage metering system (10) and method provides value added services corresponding to postage metering transactions. Funds are not stored at the user's site reducing the risk of unauthorized modification of account balances. There is a database record (60) of every mail piece, which means that verification will be improved since all valid mail pieces are known. Furthermore, the present invention enables the postal service to know the volume of mail to be processed prior to receipt of the physical mail pieces. Since more mailer data is available (e.g. when users usually mail, how much mail per day, average postage amount) the virtual postage metering system (10) enables the postal service to predict mail handling patterns. Finally, users have the option to pay as they go (130) which contrasts present systems in which funds must be on deposit prior to being downloaded to a meter although such downloaded funds may remain in the meter for weeks before being used.

SYSTEME POUR DETECTER UNE IMPRESSION NON COMPTABILISEE DANS UN SYSTEME D'IMPRESSION DE VALEURS

CE SYSTEME POUR DETECTER DES IMPRESSIONS FRAUDULEUSES SUR DES DOCUMENTS COMPREND UN COMPTEUR 1, UN ORDINATEUR CENTRAL 2 ET UN APPAREIL 3 DE VERIFICATION. LE COMPTEUR 1 FOURNIT UN SIGNAL DE VALIDATION A L'ORDINATEUR CENTRAL ET A SON IMPRIMANTE ASSOCIEE. L'IMPRIMANTE IMPRIME ENSUITE DES INFORMATIONS QUI COMPRENNENT DES INFORMATIONS PROVENANT DU SIGNAL DE VALIDATION. LES INFORMATIONS IMPRIMEES SUR UN ARTICLE DE COURRIER PEUVENT ENSUITE ETRE VALIDEES SUR L'APPAREIL 3 DE VERIFICATION EN DETECTANT L'INFORMATION DE VALIDATION FOURNIE PAR LE COMPTEUR 1. LE SYSTEME FOURNIT UN PROCEDE POUR REALISER UN DISPOSITIF COMPTEUR PROTEGE SANS IMPRIMANTE INCORPOREE. CE SYSTEME D'IMPRESSION DE VALEURS EST PROTEGE ET PERMET LA DETECTION D'IMPRIMES FRAUDULEUX SUR UN APPAREIL DE VERIFICATION 3.

METHOD FOR APPLYING A STAMPING TO AN ARTICLE OF MAIL AND APPARATUS NOT PROTECTS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION FROM THIS PROCESS

METHOD FOR ACCESS CONTROL IN A VIRTUAL POSTAGE METERING SYSTEM

A method of remotely accessing a postage security account at a daa center (30) from a remote user device begins with a remote user assigning a password to the user's postage security account at a data center (30). A cryptographic key corresponding to the user's postage security account is provided to the remote user device and is stored at the data center (30). The password and the cryptographic key are combined at the remote user device and the data center (30) respectively to obtain a user authentication key. An authentication algorithm is performed using the user authentication key to obtain a remote access message. The remote access message is sent to the data center (30) to initiate request for access to the postage security account by the remote user device. The remote user device is authenticated for accessing the postage security account when the data center (30) verifies the remote access message.

Traceable business reply envelopes

A system for forming a traceable mailpiece including an address database including at least one address to be placed on a mailer for the traceable mailpiece and a postal security device adapted to provide verifyable indicia. A controller relates the address from the database with a unique information based indicia to create a unique identifier indicia for the traceable mailpiece and a printer prints the unique identifier indicia on the traceable mailpiece, wherein the unique identifier allows the traceable mailpiece to be traced back to the address placed on the mailer.

Method and apparatus for verifying postage

Indicia having an encrypted number that is stamped upon a mail piece representative of postage so as to provide a code for authentication of such postage.

METHOD FOR DIAGNOSING OPERATING STATES OF A SYNCHRONOUS PUMP, AND DEVICE FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD

Method for providing a refund for indicium-based postage

A refund processing system and method where mailpiece identification information carried in first indicia is embedded in second indicia. Second indicia are stored in a database (208). A refund processor (209) receives a request for a refund that includes identifiers of mailpieces for which a postage refund is sought. The refund processor (209) determines if a corresponding second indicia is stored in the database (208), if any such indicia is authentic and monitors the mailstream to determine if any mailpiece corresponding to the identifier in the refund request is processed by the carrier. If an authentic second indicia is found that corresponds to the mailpiece and the mailpiece identifier is not detected in the mailstream, the refund is processed and the requester's account is credited to an amount equal to the postage borne by the second indicia.

WORKPIECE AUTHENTICATION BASED UPON ONE OR MORE WORKPIECE IMAGES

A workpiece authentication technique is provided. The technique bases workpiece authentication upon intrinsic physical characteristics of the workpiece, including one or more images of topographical appearance of at least one portion of the workpiece.

Verschlüsselungsschlüssel-Kontrollsystem für ein Postverarbeitungssystem mit Echtheitsprüfung des Datenzentrums

High speed printing

A system and method for high-speed processing of mail pieces is disclosed. The high-speed system includes client server that forms and prints a shipping label comprising reduced Information-Based Indicia (RIBI) on each piece of mail. The client server provides funds to the system server and reports the RIBI usage to the system server. The system server issues tokens to the client server that allow the client server to the print a shipping label including RIBI indicia for a certain value of postage.

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR FRANKING POSTAL ARTICLES AND FOR BILLING A LOGISTICS SERVICE

In order to prevent stamps or indicia from being forged and in order to bill a logistics service between different postal service providers correctly to the user, a computer-implemented method for franking postal articles is implemented. The article's progress is recorded by readers and, together with the accompanying franking identification, is stored in blocks of a blockchain as a transaction. In doing so, the assignment of the readers to a postal service provider is recorded. The logistics service provided is billed correctly to the user by analyzing the transactions stored in the blockchain that are to be allocated to at least one postal service provider. 112-. (canceled)13. A computer-implemented method for franking postal articles and for billing alogistics service between postal service providers , which comprises the method steps:applying a stamp or indicium with a machine-readable and unique franking identification to a postal article to be conveyed;storing the franking identification in a block of a blockchain;recording the franking identification of the stamp or indicium applied to the postal article to be conveyed in a system of a first postal service provider by a reader;comparing a recorded franking identification with the franking identification stored in the block of the blockchain;deeming the franking identification to be active and stored as a transaction in a further block of the blockchain as “active” if it is established that the recorded franking identification is identical to the franking identification stored in the block of the blockchain;conveying the postal article from a sender and delivery to a recipient by the postal service providers as a logistics service;during a conveyance of the postal article by systems of the postal service providers, the franking identification applied to the postal article is recorded by readers allocated to the system and stored as a transaction together with an identity of the system including an identity of ...

ACTIVATABLE POSTAGE

Aspects of the technology described herein provide an activatable postage. As an initial step, the activatable postage is printed on a media, such as an envelope or sticker. Initially, the activatable postage has no postage value and will not have any value until activated. Each instance of activatable postage comprises a unique identifier encoded in a machine-readable format. Postage value is added to the activatable postage through an activation process. In order to activate an individual instance of activatable postage, the unique identifier encoded in the activatable postage needs to be provided to the activation application. At the end of the activation process, a central database is updated to associate the unique identifier with a postal value calculated during activation. When the Postal Service receives an item with activatable postage it validates the activatable postage and then deactivates the activatable postage by updating the central database. 1. A method of activating postage from a computing device , comprising:receiving, at a postage-activation application, a unique identifier that is encoded with an instance of activatable postage printed on an item; andcommunicating, from the postage-activation application, an activation message to an activatable-postage service that comprises the unique identifier.2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising determining a postage rate required for the item to be posted and communicating a postage value that is associated with the unique identifier to the activatable-postage service.3. The method of claim 2 , wherein said determining the postage rate comprises identifying a greeting card to be sent in the item by scanning the greeting card and looking up specifications for the greeting card in a greeting card database.4. The method of claim 3 , wherein the greeting card is identified through computer vision analysis of a visual design on the greeting card.5. The method of claim 3 , wherein the greeting card is ...

Franking method and device

Automated transaction system

An automated transaction system employs a card maintaining an account balance and a terminal for dispensing an article of value and debiting the card's balance. The card has a secure, resident microprocessor which executes an interactive handshake recognition procedure with a secure, resident microprocessor in the value dispensing section of the terminal prior to actuating a requested transaction. In the preferred form, the handshake procedure operates by an exchange of encrypted words between the card microprocessor and the dispenser microprocessor using corresponding encryption algorithms and a secret key number, and the card microprocessor providing a command signal to the dispenser microprocessor only upon successful completion of the procedure. The automated transaction system is particularly suitable as a postage metering terminal having a postmark printer as the value dispensing section. Postage is printed only if the handshake procedure is executed between the card microprocessor and the printer microprocessor. The postal terminal also receives a rate card for computing postage automatically, and prints an invisible authentication mark along with the postmark to discourage counterfeiting. The terminal can be configured to print standard form waybills for postal and private carrier services by loading waybill information from an IC ROM services card. The balance in the user card is refilled in a refilling terminal using a master card which maintains a master account balance and a supervisor card which is in the custody of an authorized person.

System for identifying authenticating and tracking manufactured articles

This invention relates to a system for identifying, authenticating and tracking articles of manufacture throughout their manufacturing and distribution channels. The foregoing system utilizes: manufacturing meters that are located at authorized manufacturing locations and produce encrypted data that is uniquely associated with each manufactured article; a printer located at the authorized manufacturing locations so that the printer will print the information encrypted by the meter, which encrypted information is affixed to the manufactured article; a data center coupled to the manufacturing meters and located at a site remote from the manufacturing meters; means for producing information that identifies the manufactured articles; and a plurality of means located where the authenticity of the manufactured articles are checked by comparing the encrypted information on the article with the information produced that identifies the article.

Virtual security device

A system and method for remote postage metering of postage indicia, including demanding a desired postage amount and subsequently printing the postage indicia onto a piece of mail. A user inputs certain necessary information, as well as additional desired information, into a local processor-based system. The local system then assembles a postage demand in suitable format and transmits the same to a remote postage metering device. The remote postage metering device then verifies the demand for authority to demand and valid funding. Upon verification, the remote postage meter serves the transaction by configuring a shared device using virtual user device data structures and assembles a data packet representing an authorized postage indicia. The data packet is transmitted to the local system for printing. Printing of the postage indicia may be unaccompanied, or may include additional information. Such additional information may include destination and return address, machine readable routing or identification information, or a complete document to be posted.

Token generation process in an open metering system

A method of issuing digital tokens in a open system meter includes the steps of sending a request for digital tokens and predetermined postal information, including addressee information, from a host processor to a vault that is operatively coupled to the host processor; calculating in the vault in response to the request for tokens at least one digital token using the predetermined postal information; debiting postal funds in the vault; issuing the digital token to the host processor; and storing the digital token and the predetermined postal information as a transaction record in the host processor for subsequent generation and printing of an indicia. The method further includes the steps of generating in the host processor an indicia comprising a graphical image of the digital token and the predetermined postal information and storing the indicia in the host processor; and printing the indicia on a mailpiece when requested.

Unsecured postage application system

Automated transaction system with modular printhead having print authentication feature

An automated transaction system employs a terminal for printing a value indicia, such as a postmark, on an article. The terminal contains a modular printer unit which has a printhead and a dedicated microprocessor physically permanently bonded together such that the printhead microprocessor cannot be physically tampered with without disabling the printhead. The modular printer unit includes a first supply of visible ink and a second supply of invisible ink, and an internal program for printing the value indicia with visible ink and an authentication code, which uniquely corresponds to the value indicia, with invisible ink. The invisible value indicia can be subsequently verified as authentic by machine reading of said invisible authentication code and comparing the authentication code for correspondence to the value indicia.

Postage metering system

A postage meter system including a postage meter is provided with recognition means (27,28,29) to recognise a personal characteristic. The recognition means is operated in an initial phase to read a personal characteristic of a person and generates and stores a personal code corresponding to that personal characteristic. In operation of the postage meter the recognition means generates an input code in respect of the personal characteristic of a potential user of the meter and compares the input code with previously stored personal codes. If the input code matches one of the previously stored codes the postage meter is enabled for operation to carry out postage transactions. Information including the personal code may be included in a printed franking impression on mail items which can then be checked by the postal authority.

Remote configuration of franking machines.

Method for adapting the datafile between an electronic franking machine and a data center

A value changing mode is set up in the franking machine (12). In a first transaction between the franking machine and data centre (18) contg. the exchange of code numbers a specification value entered into the franking machine is passed to the data centre and stored in specification value memories (28,45) in the franking machine and in the data centre. A recharging mode is then set up. In a second transaction involving an exchange of code numbers between the franking machine and data centre the stored specification values are added to the values stored in a balance memory (26) in the franking machine and a deduction memory (46) in the data centre.

Method and device for changing an encryption key in a mail processing system with a franking machine and a verification center

DEVICE FOR TREATING MAIL IN THE FLIGHT

Ce dispositif de traitement de courrier comporte, un module d'alimentation (10) d'articles, un module de pesée (12) et un module d'affranchissement (14). Le module de pesée (12) comporte des moyens (30) de régulation de la vitesse de défilement des moyens de transport (22) du module de pesée (12), adaptés à prendre en compte la durée de pesée des articles de courrier. This mail processing device comprises an article feed module (10), a weighing module (12) and a franking module (14). The weighing module (12) comprises means (30) for regulating the speed of movement of the transport means (22) of the weighing module (12), adapted to take into account the duration of weighing of the mail items.

METHOD FOR APPLYING POSTAGE ON AN ITEM OF MAIL AND UNPROTECTED APPARATUS FOR CARRYING OUT SAID METHOD

SYSTEM FOR DETECTING AN UNACCOUNTED PRINT IN A VALUE PRINTING SYSTEM

Security extension procedure for electronic remote setting meter

A technique for securely clearing the meter after it has been disabled by a security detection scheme without returning the meter to the factory. During this technique, the meter generates a security lock code which is transmitted to a data center computer. The data center computer compares the security lock code with an internally generated security lock code. If the codes agree, the data center computer then generates a security clear code which is transmitted to the meter. The meter then compares this code with an internally generated security clear code. If these codes agree, then the meter clears the security lock flag thereby enabling the meter. As a result, the customer can subsequently remotely set the meter.

SYSTEM FOR ROUTING INFORMATION FOR RELIABLE AUTHENTICATION OF A MULTITUDE OF DOCUMENTS

Digital token issuing method in open system meter

Electronic postage scale system and method

In an improved postage scale system, soft-selection keys are used for selecting options including shipping service options provided by the system. The display on such a system is adjustable for comfortable viewing thereof. The system is capable of interfacing and communicating with other devices such as a printer, a remote computer, an optical scanner, an integrated circuit (IC) card, etc. Certain data and code for use in the system can be updated by downloading new data and code from IC cards to the system. A security measure is instituted such that, after an update of the data or code, a system user is required to enter a valid authorization number in order to enable the system. Such a measure is, in part, necessary for deterring unauthorized copying of software of the system onto another similar system.

System and method for authenticating a mailpiece sender

A method and system for authenticating the sender of a mailpiece is described for identifying certain mailpieces as originating from known trusted senders. In one configuration, biometric information and/or biometric metadata is captured when a user writes on a mailpiece with a digital pen. That data is then compared to reference data in a database. Registrant data is then loaded into storage device on the mailpiece and may be digitally signed and/or encrypted by the trusted third party. In another configuration, a mailpiece includes the signature of a sender and the biometric data includes authentication data obtained from the signature that is compared to the biometric data related to the signature obtained during a sender registration process.

System and method using information based indicia for securing and authenticating transactions

Method, system, and apparatus for authenticating transactions and records. A nonce stamp is a physical article that is relatively difficult to copy illicitly, and that bears a “nonce” number. The “nonce” is a relatively unique identifier, in that it is chosen from a distribution such that any given user/customer is extremely unlikely to obtain two nonce stamps bearing the same nonce. The method includes: presenting a nonce stamp having a nonce number; presenting a numbered digital certificate derived securely from the nonce number; and authenticating the transaction by comparing the number on the digital certificate and the nonce number. The digital certificate is typically obtained by users/customers in exchange for the purchase price of a desired transaction. The apparatus is an information-based indicium including a nonce stamp, and a digital certificate including a number derived securely from the nonce. The system generates information-based transaction indicia, and typically includes one or more computers configured to receive as input a nonce number from a user; encrypt the nonce number; and provide to the user a digital certificate including the encrypted nonce number, so that the nonce and the digital certificate may be collectively presented as an information-based transaction indicium to authenticate a transaction.

Method for retrieving mailpiece tracking details using mailpiece images

A method for retrieving mail tracking details of a mailpiece sent to a recipient using a stored image of the mailpiece. A mailpiece is provided with a unique mailpiece tracking identifier and the identifier is stored in a database. An image of the mailpiece is then acquired and also stored in the database in association with the unique mailpiece tracking identifier. Mailpiece tracking details for the mailpiece are then acquired as the mailpiece is delivered to a recipient, which tracking details are stored in the database in association with the mailpiece tracking identifier and stored image. A user seeking the particular tracking details is then presented with at least one stored image of a mailpiece, and when an image is selected by a user, the user is presented with the mail tracking details that were stored in association with the selected mailpiece image.

Method and system for tagging a mailpiece

A method to create secure postal indida that is fixed in two or more different mediums, i.e., printed on a mail piece with normal ink and/or invisible ink and recorded in a radio frequency identification (RFID) tag. The security feature is enhanced by recording a number in a memory of a radio frequency identification tag that is linked to a dual meter user before the tag is delivered to the user of the dual meter; processing by the dual meter the number recorded in the radio frequency identification tag memory when the dual postal indicia is being composed; storing the processed number in the radio frequency tag memory; affixing a postal indicia portion of a dual postal indicia and a radio frequency identification tag portion of a dual postal indicia to a mail piece; and uploading the number recoded in the radio frequency identification tag memory and the processed number stored in the radio frequency tag memory to a data center.

Mail delivery verification

For mail delivery verification address information 18 and a corresponding image 15 uniquely identifying an intended recipient are affixed to a mailing item. The identifying image 15 is compared with a person presenting to receive the item to determine whether the person presenting is the intended recipient.

Robust digital token generation and verification system accommodating token verification where addressee information cannot be recreated in automated mail processing

Virtual postage meter with secure digital signature device

A system (10) and method of evidencing postage payment includes a data center (3) with a database (36) having a plurality of meter records (64) stored therein. Each meter record (64) includes meter information corresponding to a metering account assigned to each of a plurality of remote user devices (20, 22) that are authorized to request evidence of postage payment. When a request for postage (100) is received at the data center (30), a secure co-processor device (44) in the data center (3) obtains the appropriate meter record (64) and verifies the authenticity of the meter record (64) by verifying a signature (205, 210) in the meter record (64) and comparing freshness data (220, 225) in the meter record (64) to freshness data in the secure device (44). If verified, the secure device (44) then accounts for an amount of postage to be evidenced (130), generates evidence of postage payment (130) and updates the meter information, including the freshness data (130), in the meter record (64). The secure device (44) then signs the updated meter information and stores the signature in the meter record (64, 135, 140). The secure device (44) then returns the updated meter record (64) to the database (36, 135, 140).

Franking system

A method of franking mail items is disclosed in which the franking impression includes a machine readable portion and a visually readable portion. The machine readable portion comprises a data block including at least a postage charge and a pseudo-random number and the data block is encrypted prior to printing. During printing of the franking impression, at least a part of the machine readable portion is read and compared with the data block intended to be printed. If the comparison is satisfactory the printing operation is continued to print the visually readable portion. The pseudo-random number is changed for each franking transaction which may be each item or batch of items. The machine readable portion is read at a mail handling centre to provide an input to a postage charging and accounting function.

Secure user certification for electronic commerce employing value metering system

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

Digital postal indicia employing machine and human verification

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

Postage Meter System Having Bit-Mapped Indicia Image Security

A deterrent to counterfeiting of indicias on mailpieces is provided in a method and apparatus for implementing the printing of the indicia using a customized printhead or customized printer drivers such that the dots of the bit-mapped printing are produced by the printer in unevenly spaced rows or columns. The dot size may also be varied in accordance with data from the meter, printed value, variable data such as the date, and forensic data suitably encrypted. When the indicia is scanned, the variations are readily detectable and the information is easily extracted by Postal Authorities.

Method and device for validating a security print

Automated transaction system using microprocessor cards

ABSTRACT An automated transaction system employs a user card maintaining an account balance and a transaction terminal for dispensing an article of value and debiting the card's balance. The card has a secure, resident microprocessor which executes an interactive handshake recognition procedure with a secure, resident microprocessor in the value dispensing section of the terminal prior to carrying out a requested transaction. In the preferred form, the handshake procedure operates by an exchange of encrypted words between the card microprocessor and the dispenser microprocessor using corresponding encryption algorithms and a secret key number. The system is applied as a postage metering terminal having a postmark printer as the value dispensing section, The postal terminal also receives a rate card for computing postage automatically, and prints an invisible authentication mark along with the postmark to discourage counterfeiting. The terminal also fills in and prints standard form waybills for postal and private carrier services by loading waybill information from an IC ROM services card, The value balance in the user card can be refilled in a refilling terminal using a master card which maintains a master account balance and a supervisor card which is in the custody of an authorized person.

Closed system virtual postage meter

一种在邮件上认证邮资的系统和方法，包括一将邮戳数据请求传送到一远距离数据中心的打印机模块。数据中心包括一处理器、一数据库和一安全协同处理器。数据库包括用户帐户数据。数据中心可验证打印机模块已获准请求邮资值并检索用户帐户数据。数据中心可验证用户帐户数据，把与所请求的总邮资值对应的用户帐户数据记入借方，为各邮戳产生一数字标记。数据中心将所请求的邮戳数据传送到打印机模块，打印机模块可打印所接收的邮戳。

System and method for express mail receiving and sending inspection

本发明公开了一种应用于快件收寄验视的系统与方法，所述系统包括寄件端模块、收件端模块和寄递安全管理平台，所述方法包括如下步骤：步骤1，寄件人如已经完成系统注册，则转至步骤2；否则转至步骤5；步骤2，寄件人基于寄件端智能终端完成寄递信息录入并提交给寄递安全管理平台，且从寄递安全管理平台获得寄递信息映射的二维码或条码；步骤3，快递员基于收件端智能终端扫描对应的二维码或条码获取相关寄递信息；步骤4，快递员现场核对用户身份及其他寄递信息，并基于电子验视戳完成寄递验视。步骤5，快递员通过收件端智能终端来完成对本次寄递相关信息的录入采集与验视。

Electronic mail weighing system and procedures

Virtual postage meter with secure digital signature device

(57)【要約】 郵便料金支払い証明のシステム(10)と方法のデータセンター(3)は、内部に複数のメーター記録(64)を有するデータベース(36)を備える。各メーター記録(64)は、郵便料金支払い証明の要求を許可された複数の遠隔ユーザーデバイス(20,22)に割り当てられる個々のメーターの口座に対応するメーター情報を含む。データセンター(30)で、郵便料金の要求(100)を受取ると、データセンター(30)の安全な双対プロセッサーデバイス(44)が、適切なメーター記録(64)を得て、メーター記録(64)の署名を検証し(205,210)、メーター記録(64)のフレッシュネスデータを安全デバイス(44)のフレッシュネスデータと比較することにより、メーター記録(64)の承認を検証する。検証されれば、安全デバイス(44)は、証明される郵便料金価額を会計し(130)、郵便料金支払い証明を生成し(130)、メーター記録(64)内のフレッシュネスデータを含むメーター情報を更新する(130)。安全デバイス(44)は、更新したメーター情報に署名し、メーター記録に署名を記憶する(64,135,140)。安全デバイス(44)は、更新したメーター記録(64)をデータベースに戻す(36,135,140)。

It is a kind of have claim posting part equipment and posting part method for function again

本发明公开一种具有复称功能的寄件设备，包括信件称重设备、包裹称重设备、显示器、工控机和身份验证装置，所述信件称重设备、显示器、工控机和身份验证装置均安装在寄件柜上，所述包裹称重设备安装在寄件柜旁边，所述显示器安装在寄件柜上端，所述工控机安装在寄件柜内部，所述信件称重设备安装在寄件柜内部，所述寄件柜开有投递口，所述投递口与所述信件称重设备连接，本发明实现自助寄件称重，实名认证，称重设备动态称重，兼容包裹和信件快递。

Secure postal franchise delivery system and process for evidencing payment of postal franchise.

"SISTEMA DE MINISTRAçãO DE FRANQUEAMENTO POSTAL SEGURO E PROCESSO PARA EVIDENCIAR PAGAMENTO DE FRANQUIA POSTAL". Um sistema (10) e processo para evidenciar o pagamento de franquia postal compreendem um centro de dados (3) com uma base de dados (36) tendo uma pluralidade de registros de medidor (64) armazenados na mesma. Cada registro de medidor (64) inclui informações de medidor correspondentes a um a conta de medição alocada a cada um de uma pluralidade de dispositivos de usuário remotos (20, 22) que estão autorizados a solicitar evidencia de pagamento de franquia. Quando uma solicitação por franquia (100) é recebida no centro de dados (30), um dispositivo coprocessador seguro (44) no centro de dados (3) obtém o registro de medidor apropriado (64) e verifica a autenticidade do registro de medidor (64) verificando uma assinatura (205, 210) no registro de medidor (64) e comparar dados de atualização (220, 225) no registro de medidor (64) com dados de atualização no dispositivo seguro (44). Se verificado, o dispositivo seguro (44) então justifica um valor de franquia a ser evidenciado (130) gera evidência de pagamento de franquia (130) e atualiza as informações de medidor, inclusive os dados de atualização (130), no registro de medidor (64). O dispostivo seguro (44) então assim as informações de medidor atualizados e armazena a assinatura no registro de medidor (64, 135, 140). O dispositivo seguro (44) então retorna o registro de medidor atualizado (64) à base de dados (36, 135, 140).

System and method using information based indicia for securing and authenticating transactions

A method, system, and apparatus for authenticating transactions and records is disclosed. An information-based indicium includes an article bearing a first identifier, wherein the first identifier substantially prevents a single user from accumulating multiple articles bearing the same first identifier, and a first digital certificate that is derived in part by encoding the first identifier, wherein the first digital certificate and the article may be presented together to authenticate the indicium by comparing the first digital certificate and the first identifier.

System and method for remote postage metering

A system and method for remote postage metering of postage indicia, including demanding a desired postage amount and subsequently printing the postage indicia onto a piece of mail. A user inputs certain necessary information, as well as additional desired information, into a local processor-based system. The local system then assembles a postage demand in suitable format and transmits the same to a remote postage metering device. The remote postage metering device then verifies the demand for authority to demand and valid funding. Upon verification, the remote postage meter assembles a data packet representing an authorized postage indicia. The data packet is transmitted to the local system for printing. Printing of the postage indicia may be unaccompanied, or may include additional information. Such additional information may include destination and return address, machine readable routing or identification information, or a complete document to be posted.

System and method for authenticating a mailpiece sender

Electronic data interchange postage evidencing system

Methods and systems for preparing mailpieces involve the creation of mailing lists which includes correct and incorrect recipient address information. The list is transmitted to a data center. Received from the data center is a mailing list including addressed hygiened recipient address information and a digital token for each mailpiece with encrypted data. The encrypted data is based on the corrected address information for mailpieces with correct address information on the transmitted mailing list and on hygiened recipient address information the mailpieces with incorrect recipient address information on the transmitted mailing list. The digital tokens for each mailpiece may also be based on the rating parameter information. Selection is provided for utilizing a given one of the incorrect recipient address information and the correct recipient address information is applied to an encrypter generating the digital tokens. The encrypting means for generating digital tokens may be located remote from the mailer facility or on a mailer facility or other local area network. Various arrangements are employed in generating and printing digital tokens recipient address information and corrected recipient address information.

A method generating digital tokens from a subset of addressee information

A method for generating postage evidence includes providing addressee information separated into a plurality of address fields. A predetermined section of each address field, appropriate for authentication purposes, is selected to obtain selected address data. An error correction code is generated for the selected address data and a secure hash is generated of the selected address data. The secure hash is sent with postal data, including postage amount and date, to a digital token generation process that generates at least one digital token using the secure hash for evidencing postage. An indicia including the digital token and the postal data is generated and then printed on a mail piece with the error correction code and the addressee information. In a digital token verification process, the addressee information and the error correcting code are read from the mailpiece and the postal data is read from the indicia. An error correction algorithm is used to determine if errors are correctable. If correctable, a predetermined section of each address field is selected to obtain selected address data. A secure hash of the selected address data is generated and sent with the postal data to a digital token verification process.

Identification method for franking and post-marking machines

Secure tracking of articles

A secure tracking system and method of tracking for articles which are secure and include authentication and verification of users and user devices for data and information access and input (Fig. 1). Each article to be tracked is provided with a unique secure indicia applied to the article and through which chronological histories are generated and maintained from creation of each article until at least the time when article is scrapped or otherwise destroyed. The articles can include manufactured components (24), assemblies, device and equipment for aircraft, automotive, military and other users, as well as jewelry and works of art.

AUTOMATIC TRANSFER SYSTEM WITH MICROPROCESSOR CARDS.

Metering incoming deliverable mail

A system in which originating mail processors would upload pertinent mail piece information on addressees, pointers or other identifiers automatically and periodically to a data center. The recipient addressee of the mail piece would temporarily configure his digital postage meter or mail processor as a mail receiver so that the postage meter or mail processor would read the digital indicia that was affixed to the currently delivered incoming mail. The incoming mail would be date/time stamped, opened (optionally) and the unique identifier that was placed in the postal indicia would be read. The recipient meter or mail processor would periodically upload to the data center raw data on the unique identifiers or codes that have been received. If, the received unique identifiers or codes match with the sender unique identifiers or codes in a reasonable amount of time, as would normally be the case, the sent and received codes cancel out, or are kept for statistical information on delivery times, etc. Non-matched codes could be flagged and reported to the originator for further investigation. Thus, the data center may be able to locate mis-sent or mis-routed mail and automatically feed back information on undelivered or undeliverable mail.

System for detecting unaccounted for printing in a value printing system

Automated transaction system with modular printhead having print authentication feature

Robust digital token generation and verification system accommodating token verification where addressee information cannot be recreated in automated mail processing

A method for generating evidencing information for a document includes generating an error correction code and generating a digital token employing the error correction code. A method for verifying authentication and integrity information printed on a mail piece includes obtaining an error correction code printed on the document and employing the obtained error correction code to verify the validity of the evidencing information. A method for verifying the evidencing information printed on a mail piece includes obtaining an error correction code printed on a mail piece and determining that the obtained error correction code is inaccurate. The information employed to generate the inaccurate error correction code is obtained and an error correction code is generated from the obtained information. The generated error correction code is employed to verify the validity of the evidencing information. The document may be a mail piece and the evidencing information postage evidencing information with the error correction code being for at least a portion of destination address information.

System and method for linking an indicium with address information of a mailpiece in a closed system postage meter

System and method is provided for adding addressing information to an indicium printed by a closed system metering device. A scanning device is coupled to a closed system postage meter for scanning addressing information printed on a mailpiece. The addressing information is combined with other information relating to the postage payment for the mailpiece to obtain postal data relating to the mailpiece. The postal data, including the addressing information is used to generate an indicium for the mailpiece. The indicium includes cryptographic evidencing of postage payment. The closed system metering device prints the indicium on the mailpiece.

Encrypted mail envelope-identitiy

The present invention is to establish capabilities to identify and verify each sender of a mailed item(s) through the use of Encrypted Identity Envelopes. The use of the envelopes will improve the security of the United States Postal System and they will also provide a feeling of calm to individuals working with and receiving mail, and the encrypted envelopes will provide a basis to establishing a National Tracking System of Individuals. Each envelope will have a scannable personal identification block(s); the envelope may be in the form of a pre-identity stamped envelope or an identity stamp may be glued or “stamped” on. Additional personal information such as photo, finger prints (two or more fingers in case of accidents), DNA data (optional), iris identification, and other sources of personal identification as technologies become available and perfected may also be included in the identity blocks.

VIRTUAL FRANKING MACHINE WITH SEVERAL PAYMENT SOURCES

A kind of receive applied to express mail posts the System and method for for testing view

本发明公开了一种应用于快件收寄验视的系统与方法，所述系统包括寄件端模块、收件端模块和寄递安全管理平台，所述方法包括如下步骤：步骤1，寄件人如已经完成系统注册，则转至步骤2；否则转至步骤5；步骤2，寄件人基于寄件端智能终端完成寄递信息录入并提交给寄递安全管理平台，且从寄递安全管理平台获得寄递信息映射的二维码或条码；步骤3，快递员基于收件端智能终端扫描对应的二维码或条码获取相关寄递信息；步骤4，快递员现场核对用户身份及其他寄递信息，并基于电子验视戳完成寄递验视。步骤5，快递员通过收件端智能终端来完成对本次寄递相关信息的录入采集与验视。

Method and system for franking postal articles and for billing a logistics service

In order to prevent stamps or indicia (W) from being forged and in order to bill a logistics service between different postal service providers (P 1 , P 2 ) correctly to the user, the invention relates to a computer-implemented method for franking postal articles (S). The article's progress is recorded by readers (R) and, together with the accompanying franking identification (W-Id), is stored in blocks (N i , N i+1 ) of a blockchain (B) as a transaction. In doing so, the assignment of the readers (R) to a postal service provider (P) is also recorded. The logistics service provided is billed correctly to the user by analysing the transactions stored in the blockchain (B) that are to be allocated to at least one postal service provider (P1, P2).

Virtual postage meter with multiple origins of deposit

System and method of postal-charge assessment

A system and method of postal-charge assessment facilitates the production of mail pieces exhibiting a collective postage-fee payment code issued by a postage vendor and authorized to be applied to a plurality of mail pieces in response to a postal-customer request. There is associated with the process no inherent limit on the number of mail pieces exhibiting the collective postage-fee payment code that the requesting postal customer can cause to have produced; the postal customer is, instead, assessed a postal charged only for those mail pieces exhibiting the postage-fee payment code that are detected in the postal system. The requesting postal customer has the option of associating limitations with the collective postage-fee payment code such as (i) restrictions on authorized delivery addresses, (ii) a postage expiration date and (iii) a limit of the quantity of mail pieces exhibiting the postage-fee payment code that can be introduced into the postal system.

System and method for authenticating a mailpiece sender

A method and system for authenticating the sender of a mailpiece is described for identifying certain mailpieces as originating from known trusted senders. In one configuration, biometric information and/or biometric metadata is captured when a user writes on a mailpiece with a digital pen. That data is then compared to reference data in a database. Registrant data is then loaded into storage device on the mailpiece and may be digitally signed and/or encrypted by the trusted third party. In another configuration, a mailpiece includes the signature of a sender and the biometric data includes authentication data obtained from the signature that is compared to the biometric data related to the signature obtained during a sender registration process.

SYSTEM FOR ROUTING INFORMATION FOR RELIABLE AUTHENTICATION OF A MULTITUDE OF DOCUMENTS

Le système de la présente invention comporte un dispositif pour résoudre un ensemble d'équations polynômiales afin de développer une chaîne de caractères et ayant une clé de déchiffrage, qui, lors de l'application de la chaîne de caractères, révèle non seulement un message en texte en clair indiquant la source de l'authentification 10, mais, de plus, fournit la clé de déchiffrage pour utilisation avec l'information fournie par l'expéditeur 12. La solution de l'ensemble d'équations polynômiales requiert l'accumulation de documents individuels, chacun ayant un xi aléatoire et une solution de la fonction f(xi ) associée. The system of the present invention includes a device for solving a set of polynomial equations in order to develop a character string and having a decryption key, which, when applying the character string, not only reveals a message in clear text indicating the source of the authentication 10, but, in addition, provides the decryption key for use with the information provided by the sender 12. The solution of the set of polynomial equations requires the accumulation of individual documents, each having a random xi and a solution of the associated function f (xi).

A method of mapping destination addresses for use in calculating digital tokens

A method of creating an open system digital token includes sending predetermined information to a digital token generation process. A set of characters are randomly selected from the predetermined information. A mapping algorithm is applied to the selected characters to facilitate a character recognition process and a random number algorithm is applied to the mapped selected characters to obtain a random number. A digital token is calculated using the random number. The predetermined information may be delivery address information in the form of an ASCII string which is reduced by eliminating certain non-alphanumeric characters from the ASCII string. Certain characters can be modified to facilitate OCR processing. A plurality of characters are randomly selected from the reduced ASCII string to determine random positions in the reduced ASCII string. The ASCII code of the selected characters are mapped to the code of a reduced space using a mapping table. The mapped delivery address information is included in a digital token calculation of the digital token generation process.

System and method for linking an indicium with a mailpiece in a closed system postage meter

System and method for adding addressing information to an indicium printed by a closed system metering device (150). A scanning device (120) is coupled to a closed system postage meter (150) for scanning addressing information (10) printed on a mailpiece (5). The addressing information (10) is combined with other information relating to the postage payment for the mailpiece to obtain postal data relating to the mailpiece (5). The postal data, including the addressing information is used to generate an indicium for the mailpiece (5). The indicium includes cryptographic evidencing of postage payment. The closed system metering device prints the indicium on the mailpiece (5).

Virtual postage meter with secure digital signature device

Generic special service mailing assembly and a system and method for automating the imaging of same with voice recognition and security provisions

An assembly for mailing an article requiring delivery by a special service and a method and system for imaging the same are provided. The assembly includes a generic mailing label having a back side adhesively and detachably affixed to a backing sheet. The label may be imaged with all of the information necessary to serve as one of many types of special service mailing labels. Removal of the label from the associated backing sheet allows the label to be permanently affixed to a mailpiece. Upon delivery of the mailpiece, a return receipt postcard portion of the label may be removed and forwarded to the sender of the mailpiece as a return receipt. A method and system for the automatic imaging of such mailing label are also provided having voice recognition capabilities and built-in security features wherein the sender of the mailpiece may obtain a special service mailing label from a vending-type machine upon providing all of the required information for the desired special mailing service.

Document authentication system

Slogan and inscription control system for a mailing machine

A message control system particularly useful for postage meters of the type having bit-map printers includes encryption means for generating a code in a postage meter based on meter information and the desired information to be included in the message to be printed. The message and other data is furnished to a data center which then generates an authorization code to be furnished to the postage meter. When there is a match between the authorization and internal code, the message can be stored in the postage meter for printing. The messages may also reside in a slogan box which must remain connected to the meter in order for the slogan to be printed.

System and method for distributing postage over a public network, enabling efficient printing of postal indicia on items to be mailed and authenticating the printed indicia

A system is disclosed for distributing postage over a public network in a manner that is secure in the case of third party interception, indicia for which can be efficiently printed by a postal customer on items to be mailed, and that facilitates authentication of the printed indicia. When the postal customer purchases postage from the postal service, the postal service provides information which the postal customer uses to generate pseudo-random numbers associated with the respective units of postage. When the postal customer prints an indicium for a respective unit, it appends the associated pseudo-random number, which the postal service uses to authenticate the indicium. The pseudo-random numbers are generated using a methodology by which the postal customer can generate pseudo-random numbers for units which have been purchased, but not for units which have not yet been purchased. Each indicium represents an amount of information which can be printed using a one-dimensional barcode, instead of two-dimensional barcodes required in other systems.

System and method for biometric verification in a delivery process

Described is a method and system for providing a verified delivery of a package. First, registration information is obtained from a recipient; the registration information includes a biometric identification of the recipient. A delivery service obtains the package from a sender which is addressed to the recipient and forwards the package to the recipient. At the point of delivery, the delivery service obtains a further biometric identification from the recipient using a portable device which includes a biometric reader. The delivery service releases the package to the recipient only if the biometric identification is substantially identical to the further biometric identification.

Virtual postage meter with multiple origins of deposit

A system ( 10 ) and method of evidencing postage payment include a local postage printing system ( 20, 22 ) requesting to a remote data metering center ( 30 ) for the generation of postage evidencing information ( 220, 320 ). The request includes a postage amount to be printed on a mail piece. The remote data metering center ( 30 ) determines a postal origin ( 220, 320 ) corresponding to the request for postage evidencing information ( 220, 230 ), then accounts for the postage amount in a general account ( 220, 320 ) corresponding to the local postage printing system ( 20, 22 ) and in a payment account corresponding to the determined postal origin ( 240, 340 ). The remote metering center ( 30 ) generates postage evidencing information ( 220, 320 ) in response to the request. The postal evidencing information includes a digital token and the determined postal origin ( 220, 320 ). The remote data metering center ( 30 ) sends the postage evidencing information to the local postage printing system ( 20, 22 ) which prints the postage evidencing information and the determined postal origin on the mail piece.

A method of inhibiting token generation in an open metering system

A method is provided for inhibiting the generation of digital tokens in an open metering system that includes a host processor and a vault. The method includes the steps of generating in the host processor a first digital token request that corresponds to a first destination identifier and a first postage amount; determining in the host processor if one of the first destination identifier and the first postage amount is different than a prior destination identifier and a prior postage amount, respectively, that correspond to an immediately preceding digital token request; sending the first digital token request to the vault when the first destination identifier and the first postage amount are different than the prior destination identifier and the prior postage amount, respectively; and rejecting the first digital token request when the first destination identifier and the first postage amount are different than the prior destination identifier and the prior postage amount, respectively. The method includes the further steps of notifying a user when the first destination identifier and the first postage amount are the same as the prior destination identifier and the prior postage amount; providing the user with a capability to confirm that the first digital token request is valid; and sending the first digital token request to the vault when the user confirms that the first digital token request is valid.

Remote enabling of software controllable features of an external device coupled with an electronic franking machine

A technique for reconfiguring in the field external devices in communication with postage meters, the external devices having an external device feature set that may be selectively enabled or disabled by software. The technique provides security so that any changes to the feature set is authorized. The meter (10) is capable of being put into an I/O configuration mode by suitable entries from the keyboard (14), in which mode it is inhibited from printing postage. The meter (10) has a storage register (26) for a current or old I/O configuration number (IOCN), and can receive a desired new IOCN via keyboard (14) entry. The meter (10) calculates an encrypted I/O configuration request code that depends on the new IOCN. The I/O configuration request code, when communicated to a data center computer (25) along with other validating identification information, is checked by the data center computer (25) which computes the I/O configuration request code using the same algorithm. If the two values agree, the data center ccmputer (25) calculates an encrypted I/O configuration enable code that depends on the meter serial number. This is communicated to the meter (10), which receives the I/O configuration enable code and also calculates a I/O configuration enable code using the same algorithm as the data center computer (25). If the I/O configuration enable codes agree, the meter (10) overwrites the old IOCN with the new IOCN, thereby reconfiguring the meter (10) and the external devices.

Automated transaction system with insertable cards for transferring account data

Postal indicia generating system and method

A method for generating a postal indicia associated with a mailpiece is disclosed. The method includes generating an indicia data stream including a postal information segment and a security segment that is based upon the postal information segment and modifying a portion of the security segment to include additional information, thereby defining a modified indicia data stream.

Method for retrieving mailpiece tracking details using mailpiece images

A method for retrieving mail tracking details of a mailpiece sent to a recipient using a stored image of the mailpiece. A mailpiece is provided with a unique mailpiece tracking identifier and the identifier is stored in a database. An image of the mailpiece is then acquired and also stored in the database in association with the unique mailpiece tracking identifier. Mailpiece tracking details for the mailpiece are then acquired as the mailpiece is delivered to a recipient, which tracking details are stored in the database in association with the mailpiece tracking identifier and stored image. A user seeking the particular tracking details is then presented with at least one stored image of a mailpiece, and when an image is selected by a user, the user is presented with the mail tracking details that were stored in association with the selected mailpiece image.

Automated transaction system with modular printhead having print authentication feature

A B S T R A C T A transaction terminal has input means for inputting a request for printing a value indicia on an article, printing means for printing the requested value indicia on the article, and operating means for operating said terminal to enable a user to input the request for value indicia through the input means and to enable the printing means to print the requested value indicia on the article. In an improved printing means for the transaction terminal, the printing means is formed as a separate section in the terminal and has a printhead and a dedicated microprocessor for controlling the printhead contained therein. First ink supply means are provided for supplying a visible ink to the printhead. Second ink supply means are provided for supplying an invisible, machine-readable ink to the printhead. The printhead microprocessor has interface means connected to the operating means of the terminal for receiving the value indicia request input to the terminal, and print program means for controlling the printhead to print the requested value indicia as a visible indicia with visible ink from the first ink supply means on the article, for deriving an authentication code which uniquely corresponds to the requested value indicia, and for controlling the printhead to print the authentication code as an invisible indicia with invisible ink from the second ink supply means on said article. The printed visible value indicia can be subsequently verified as authentic by machine reading of the invisible authentication code and comparing the authentication code for correspondence to the value indicia.

Machine dependent login for on-line value-bearing item system

An on-line VBI printing system that includes one or more cryptographic modules and a central database. The cryptographic modules are capable of implementing a variety of required security standards. A client system provides a user friendly GUI for facilitating the interface of the user to the system. The GUI system includes wizards that help the user step-by-step with processes of registration, logging into the system, and printing the VBI. In one aspect, the invention describes an on-line system for printing a value bearing item (VBI) that includes a memory for storing information specific to a first computer used by the user for registering with the on-line system, wherein the information is used by the server system to identify the first computer and a re-registration wizard for requiring the user to re-register if a second computer used by the user is not the same as the first computer used for registering the user.

Electronic postage scales system and method

Encrypted mail monitoring and data retrieval system

An encrypted mail monitoring and data retrieval system (10) employing POSTNET (Postal Numeric Encoding Technique) PLANET (Postal Alpha-Numeric Encoding Technique) and CONFIRM (Computerized On-Line Notification For Inbound Reply Mail) techniques to allow the U.S.P.S. to read, record, collect, transmit and retrieve encrypted data on articles of mail (1). The data is indicative of the origin, content, location, destination, etc. pertaining to the individual articles of mail; and, the USPS will then selectively transmit portions of the collected data to subscribers of the new system.

Metering incoming deliverable mail

A system in which originating mail processors would upload pertinent mail piece information on addressees, pointers or other identifiers automatically and periodically to a data center. The recipient addressee of the mail piece would temporarily configure his digital postage meter or mail processor as a mail receiver so that the postage meter or mail processor would read the digital indicia that was affixed to the currently delivered incoming mail. The incoming mail would be date/time stamped, opened (optionally) and the unique identifier that was placed in the postal indicia would be read. The recipient meter or mail processor would periodically upload to the data center raw data on the unique identifiers or codes that have been received. If, the received unique identifiers or codes match with the sender unique identifiers or codes in a reasonable amount of time, as would normally be the case, the sent and received codes cancel out, or are kept for statistical information on delivery times, etc. Non-matched codes could be flagged and reported to the originator for further investigation. Thus, the data center may be able to locate mis-sent or mis-routed mail and automatically feed back information on undelivered or undeliverable mail.

Authenticating postage marks

Transaction system with a modular printer

Service and usage data collection using a special mail piece

This invention relates to a monitoring system that determines the amount and type of customers usage of machines and equipment without having a representative of the manufacturer physically inspect the customers machines and equipment. The monitoring system utilizes a mailpiece to transmit information about the customers' usage of customers machines and equipment.

A kind of box, throwing pickup system and method and the inquiry of the box and localization method

本发明公开了一种宝盒、投取件系统和方法及宝盒的查询和定位方法，宝盒上设置有生物识别模块、近距离模块和定位模块，通过生物识别模块和近距离模块增加宝盒的识别验证方式，不再局限于密码识别，开盒更加安全方便，同时随时了解宝盒的状态信息，可追溯。

System and method for biometric verification in a delivery process

Described is a method and system for providing a verified delivery of a package. First, registration information is obtained from a recipient; the registration information includes a biometric identification of the recipient. A delivery service obtains the package from a sender which is addressed to the recipient and forwards the package to the recipient. At the point of delivery, the delivery service obtains a further biometric identification from the recipient using a portable device which includes a biometric reader. The delivery service releases the package to the recipient only if the biometric identification is substantially identical to the further biometric identification.

Virtual postage meter with secure digital signature device

A system (10) and method of evidencing postage payment includes a data center (3) with a database (36) having a plurality of meter records (64) stored therein. Each meter record (64) includes meter information corresponding to a metering account assigned to each of a plurality of remote user devices (20, 22) that are authorized to request evidence of postage payment. When a request for postage (100) is received at the data center (30), a secure co-processor device (44) in the data center (3) obtains the appropriate meter record (64) and verifies the authenticity of the meter record (64) by verifying a signature (205, 210) in the meter record (64) and comparing freshness data (220, 225) in the meter record (64) to freshness data in the secure device (44). If verified, the secure device (44) then accounts for an amount of postage to be evidenced (130), generates evidence of postage payment (130) and updates the meter information, including the freshness data (130), in the meter record (64). The secure device (44) then signs the updated meter information and stores the signature in the meter record (64, 135, 140). The secure device (44) then returns the updated meter record (64) to the database (36, 135, 140).

Encryption key control system for mail processing system having data center verification

A key control system comprises the generation of a first set of keys which are then used for a plurality of respective postage meters. The keys are then related to a respective meter in accordance with a map or algorithm. The keys may be changed by entering the second key via an encryption using the first key.

System and method for biometric verification in a delivery process

Described is a method and system for providing a verified delivery of a package. First, registration information is obtained from a recipient; the registration information includes a biometric identification of the recipient. A delivery service obtains the package from a sender which is addressed to the recipient and forwards the package to the recipient. At the point of delivery, the delivery service obtains a further biometric identification from the recipient using a portable device which includes a biometric reader. The delivery service releases the package to the recipient only if the biometric identification is substantially identical to the further biometric identification.