Joseph Brent Robinson

US Patent:

20020042879, Apr 11, 2002

Filed:

Oct 5, 2001

Appl. No.:

09/971032

Inventors:

Terry Gould - Fort Washington MD, US
Joseph Robinson - Fort Washington MD, US

International Classification:

H04L009/00

US Classification:

713/176000

Abstract:

A method of producing an electronic signature and a system for verifying that signature by a licensed vendor. Personal information is received by an individual wishing to utilize this system. This personal information would be used to produce an electronic signature, including an authentication number. The electronic signature, as well as the means for producing the authentication number, can be created through the use of a electronic signature card. This card can be inserted into a reader and the licensed vendor can compare the generated authentication number with an authentication number associated with the individual. Once the electronic signature is verified, a particular commercial transaction can be completed. Additionally, the present invention can be used to ensure the integrity of the document after the electronic signature has been attached thereto. This invention prevents identity theft, as well as minimizing the risk of unauthorized use of the signature card to sign a document in another person's name.