Patent ID: 7203315
Filing Date: 2007-04-10
Classification: G06Q,H04L

Abstract:
1. A method of providing user anonymity in conjunction with transactions conducted over a network, the method comprising the steps of: establishing an association in an intermediary machine between real identity information for a particular user and corresponding alias identity information for the user; supplying at least a portion of the alias identity information from the intermediary machine to a machine associated with a web site operator in conjunction with an action by the user; and providing intermediary payment authorization information to the web site operator machine in conjunction with an online transaction involving the user, such that the user is able to enter into the transaction without the real identity information being disclosed to the web site operator; wherein the intermediary machine comprises a processor and a memory, the memory being configured to store a plurality of intermediary payment card numbers of differing expirations, the intermediary payment card numbers being payment card numbers of the intermediary machine and not of the particular user, and the processor being configured to select a particular one of the plurality of intermediary payment card numbers for use as the intermediary payment authorization information based at least in part on the expiration relative to the time of the online transaction; the intermediary machine thereby implementing a rotation of intermediary payment card numbers, based on said expirations, that reduces exposure of the intermediary machine to fraudulent use of payment card numbers.