Patent Publication Number: US-2021185036-A1

Title: Secure authentication system

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/856,025, filed on Aug. 13, 2010, which is a division of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/265,506, filed on Nov. 3, 2005, which claims the benefit of Provisional Patent Application No. 60/706,036, filed Aug. 8, 2005, each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND 
     Authentication is an important aspect in performing Internet transactions to maintain data security. 
     Current methods of obtaining credit focus primarily on the ability to make a credit decision quickly rather than ensuring the accuracy of the information provided by a credit applicant. Some methods even include tolerances for errors within the information provided. Accordingly, current methods for obtaining credit may be insecure and fraught with opportunities for an unscrupulous individual to obtain credit in the name of another using personal information improperly obtained about that person. Improperly obtaining credit in the name of another is sometimes referred to as “credit fraud” or “identity theft.” Credit fraud and identity theft are also an issue when a user attempts to use credit once it is obtained. 
     A credit card or credit line is typically obtained through a process in which an applicant provides a variety of personal or private information on a credit application, such as a Social Security number, drivers license number, date of birth, mother&#39;s maiden name, etc. The application is provided to a credit provider, such as a retail store, credit card company, mortgage broker or lender, among others, and the credit provider obtains a “credit report” or “credit history” from a credit bureau. If the credit report meets the requirements of the credit provider, credit will be made available to the applicant; otherwise, credit will be denied. 
     In one such product, a credit provider forwards a user&#39;s social security number, mother&#39;s maiden name, and answers to a variety of other user specific information to a credit bureau. Authentication of the user is then based on sophisticated data analysis of data collected from multiple sources, as well as advanced neural network and other statistical modeling techniques. After a user is authenticated, a credit history and “credit score” are provided to the credit provider for analysis. 
     Because the Social Security number of an individual does not change over time, the Social Security number is prevalent in many individual business transactions for identifying an individual. Unfortunately, an individual&#39;s Social Security number is often known by others, can appear on various everyday documents, and is otherwise susceptible of being stolen and used by others in an unauthorized manner. Difficulties also arise from the inability or limited ability to change an individual&#39;s Social Security number once it has been used improperly. Similarly, an individual&#39;s mother&#39;s maiden name is also static and can be easily obtained and used to falsify a person&#39;s identity. 
     An individual may be able to obtain another person&#39;s credit report once they have their Social Security number and some basic identifying information. The credit report typically provides an applicant&#39;s current debt load, payment history, and a credit score based on the information contained in the applicant&#39;s credit history, which is used by the credit provider to determine an applicant&#39;s credit worthiness. The credit provider will typically provide credit if the credit report shows that the applicant meets certain minimum criteria; otherwise, the credit provider will deny credit to the credit applicant. 
     Credit providers often rely on the credit bureau to identify a fraudulent attempt at obtaining credit. Even so, an applicant&#39;s identity is verified only to the extent that the applicant provides information consistent with that on file at the credit bureau, which may be nothing more than a Social Security number that matches or in some cases closely matches the individual associated with other information provided, such as a mother&#39;s maiden name. A picture identification may also be required by the credit provider to assist in the authentication process. However, it is apparent that current efforts to stop credit fraud are often easily defeated by simply providing the Social Security number and/or mother&#39;s maiden name of another person and a false picture identification. 
     Similarly, when an individual uses credit, a credit card or other transaction item, such as a check payable through a line of credit, is all that may be required to make a purchase. Loss or theft of the credit card or check would allow anyone else to use it for their own purposes. In some instances only a credit card number is required to make a purchase. For example, internet purchases or purchases over the phone only require the card number and a three-digit security code, also located on the credit card, and there is no way of knowing who is actually making the purchase. A picture id may be requested when making a purchase in person; however, as discussed earlier, a false picture identification may simply be used. 
     In today&#39;s information-rich society, personal information about others is easily obtainable through a variety of sources. For example, information may be obtained via the Internet, an employee of a credit provider may simply copy the necessary information from an applicant&#39;s credit application and use it later to obtain credit for his or herself in the applicant&#39;s name, or an application, bill, or other paper that is carelessly thrown away could be picked up by another and used to improperly obtain credit. 
     In some instances credit bureaus will block access to a specific person&#39;s credit history, but this is typically avoided by the credit bureaus except in situations where an individual has already suffered from an identity theft. Furthermore, there are time consuming hurdles involved with accessing one&#39;s credit history once a block has been placed that may limit a person&#39;s ability to obtain credit and take advantage of time-sensitive situations. 
     Credit providers may contact a customer if a purchase pattern flags possible misuse of a card, but this is done only after the activity has been detected. Additionally, current fraud detection mechanisms may not even identify most fraudulent activity, thus placing responsibility on the consumer to identify fraudulent purchases by closely reviewing their monthly statement. 
     These and other deficiencies exist in conventional credit application and use systems and methods. Therefore, a solution to these and other problems is needed, providing a secure credit application and use system and method specifically designed to protect a credit applicant from identity theft and credit fraud whether or not their personal information has been improperly obtained by others. 
     BRIEF SUMMARY 
     Systems and methods are provided for receiving a data packet over the Internet, the data packet comprising a request to access secure data associated with an entity; accessing configuration information associated with the entity, the configuration information comprising a plurality of conditions for performing authentication, the configuration information comprising stored authentication information obtained from the entity; generating a set of parameters based on the data packet; determining that the set of parameters satisfies one or more of the plurality of conditions for performing authentication; in response to determining that the set of parameters satisfies one or more of the plurality of conditions for performing authentication, establishing a communications link over the Internet with a client device, the client device being associated with the secure data; transmitting an instruction to the client device to perform the authentication for accessing the secure data, wherein the client device performs the authentication using two or more physical authentication devices, a first of the two or more physical authentication devices comprising a biometric device; receiving a message from the client device comprising authentication data, the authentication data being generated by interaction with the two or more physical authentication devices; and enabling access to the secure data in response to determining that the authentication data received from the client device corresponds to the authentication information stored in the configuration information. 
     Accordingly, the present invention is directed to a credit application and use identity authentication solution for protecting an individual&#39;s credit history, credit account, and credit-related information from unauthorized users. The advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof, as well as the appended drawings. 
     Thus, the present invention provides an authentication solution limiting access to an individual&#39;s credit history and/or an individual&#39;s established credit account. The limited access is enforced by the creation of an authentication account and providing renewable authentication information to the individual and requiring that the individual provide current authentication information to validate the individual&#39;s identity before a credit history is made available or use of existing credit is authorized. Accordingly, authentication information, such as a personal identification number (PIN), password, or biometric information, is used to verify the user&#39;s identity and is known by the user and not known, knowable, or reproducible by others. Furthermore, authentication information may be provided and validated as part of the credit application or credit transaction process, thus securing a credit history or access to a credit account without inhibiting the speed of a credit application or transaction. 
     Authentication information is provided to or created by the user upon establishing an authentication account. Thereafter, authentication information must be renewed according to established business rules associated with the user&#39;s authentication account. For example, a business rule may require renewal of the authentication information after a certain number of uses, after each transaction over a specified monetary limit, or after each transaction within a certain geographic area. Further business rules may also require that notice is provided to a user before or after specified types of transactions, for example. Business rules may be set by the authentication solution or may be user configurable. 
     Accordingly, in one embodiment of the present invention, an authentication solution architecture is provided including a user access layer enabling one or more user devices to provide and receive data within the authentication solution architecture, a user interface interconnected with the user access layer for providing interface modules for interacting with the one or more user devices, a user services layer interconnected with the user interface layer for providing authentication services and associated services, and a data storage layer interconnected with the user services layer for storing and providing data to the authentication services and associated services. 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, an authentication system for authenticating a user&#39;s identity is provided, including one or more access points for communicating with user entry devices, an account management server interconnected with the one or more access points for establishing an authentication account for a user, creating authentication information associated with the authentication account, and renewing the authentication information based on a set of business rules, an authentication server interconnected with the one or more access points for comparing authentication information with transaction authentication data provided during a transaction and validating a user&#39;s identity if the transaction authentication information matches the user&#39;s authentication information, and a storage server interconnected with the account management server and authentication server for storing authentication account data and authentication information. 
     According to another embodiment of the present invention, a credit authentication solution is provided wherein a credit applicant or credit user, referred to here simply as the user, creates an authentication account and establishes authentication information. When attempting to obtain credit from a particular credit provider the user provides a completed credit application, the credit provider submits necessary information to a credit bureau to obtain the user&#39;s credit history, and the credit bureau requests the user&#39;s uniquely created authentication information. In one embodiment, a user&#39;s credit history is obtained from a credit bureau and upon authenticating the user&#39;s identity with valid authentication information, the credit history is released to the credit provider. In a further embodiment, the user is authenticated with valid authentication information then the credit history is either obtained from a credit bureau and released to the credit provider or the credit bureau is instructed to forward the credit history to the credit provider. 
     When a user attempts to use previously established credit, the user provides credit account information and their authentication information. Upon receiving valid authentication information from the user, the credit provider authorizes the credit transaction. In a further embodiment, the credit provider authorizes a request for a credit transaction. 
     In the event that invalid authentication information is provided, access to the user&#39;s credit history will be denied or the credit transaction will not be initiated or authorized. In a further embodiment the user will also be notified via a phone call, e-mail, instant message, or other suitable communication method that their credit history has been either provided or denied to the particular credit provider or that their transaction has been authorized or not. 
     In another embodiment of the present invention, a user obtains a master identifier such as a PIN or password. The user then provides the master identifier when creating or modifying authentication information. Accordingly, the user may securely change the authentication information in the event of loss, theft, or in the ordinary course of renewing authentication information. 
     Accordingly, one aspect of the present invention is to provide renewable authentication information for securely authenticating a user&#39;s identity. 
     Another aspect of the present invention is the use of business rules to configure the manner in which the authentication information is managed and used to authenticate the user&#39;s identity, such as identifying the duration of time, number of transactions, or geographic locations in which authentication may be used before renewal. 
     A further aspect of the present invention is the use of business rules to configure the functionality of a user&#39;s authentication account, such as identifying when and how account activity notifications are sent to the user. 
     Additional features and advantages of the invention will be set forth in the description that follows, and in part will be apparent from the description, or may be learned by practice of the invention. The objectives and other advantages of the invention will be realized and attained by the structure particularly pointed out in the written description and claims hereof, as well as the appended drawings. 
     It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are exemplary and explanatory and are intended to provide further explanation of the invention as claimed. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS 
       To easily identify the discussion of any particular element or act, the most significant digit or digits in a reference number refer to the figure number in which that element is first introduced. 
         FIG. 1  shows a credit authentication solution architecture, according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 2  shows a block diagram of the credit authentication solution, according to an embodiment of the present invention; 
         FIG. 3  shows a process flow diagram for authenticating a credit applicant, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and 
         FIG. 4  show a process flow diagram for authenticating a credit user, according to an embodiment of the present invention. 
         FIG. 5  illustrates a secure authentication system  500  in accordance with one example. 
         FIG. 6  illustrates a routine  600  for performing authentication in accordance with one example. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       FIG. 1  shows a credit authentication solution architecture, according to an embodiment of the present invention. According to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , credit authentication solution architecture  10  includes a user access layer  110 , user interface layer  120 , and user services layer  130 . Credit authentication solution architecture  10  provides the communication, processing, and data storage capabilities for creating an authentication account and authentication information, modifying an authentication account and authentication information, authenticating the identity of a user, and providing information to the user. 
     The user access layer  110  provides the communication point between the credit authentication solution architecture  10  and a user. According to various embodiments, a user may be a consumer or credit applicant creating or modifying an existing authentication account, a credit provider during the credit application process, a merchant during credit use transaction, or any individual or business entity authorized to access the credit authentication solution architecture  10  on behalf of a consumer or credit applicant. According to various embodiments of the present invention, the user access layer includes voice access, such as telephone or voice over internet protocol (“VOIP”) connections, as well as data access, including computing devices, such as desktop or laptop computers, handheld computing devices and biometric input devices, for example. 
     The user interface layer  120  of credit authentication solution architecture  10  provides the various interfaces and modules for interacting with the devices available through user access module  110 . The user interface layer  120  provides access via voice or data communication devices, such as via telephone, computer, or biometric devices. According to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 1 , interface layer  120  includes a computer network module  122 , a direct dial module  124 , an interactive voice response module  126 , and an operator module  128 . Computer network module  122  provides a user interface for users connecting through a personal computer, smartphone, or other computing device sending data over a computer network, such as the Internet, for example. Direct dial module  124  provides an interface for users connecting directly to the credit authentication solution architecture  10  over a telephone line or other direct line of communication. 
     Interactive voice response module  126  and operator module  128  each provide an interface for users  110  accessing the authentication architecture  10  via a telephone, cell phone, or other data entry device. The interactive voice response module  126  provides an automated communication system allowing a user to access various menus through voice commands and/or keypad entry. Operator module  128  provides an operator to assist a user  110 . 
     The user services layer  130  provides user service modules for the services associated with the credit authentication architecture  10 . User services layer  130 , as shown in the embodiment displayed in  FIG. 1 , includes account creation module  132 , account modification module  134 , user notification module  136 , and authentication module  138 . According to an embodiment of the present invention, services within user services layer  130  operate within a specified set of business rules. For example, business rules may enforce that authentication information be provided for all authentication transaction, including credit applicant and credit use. A further embodiment may include business rules requiring authentication information for all credit applicant transactions and any credit use transaction above a specified dollar amount. Another embodiment may include a set of business rules requiring authentication information for any credit use transaction within a specified geographic area, for example, all transactions outside of the United States. Further embodiments may provide for a wide variety of business rule configurations. 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, business rules are established for managing the requirements and functionality of an authentication account. For example, business rules may dictate under what criteria authentication information is required, such as any transactions above a specified monetary amount or within a specific geographic location. Business rules may also indicate how often authentication information must be renewed, such as after a specified number of transactions, specified number of days, or some other timeframe. Business rules my be implemented on a system-wide basis or user configurable. 
     According to one embodiment, user established business rules are maintained in a user profile associated with the user&#39;s authentication account. Business rules may also establish when and a how a user is notified of account activity. 
     The account creation module  132  provides the processes and data for creating a user account for authenticating a user&#39;s identification when obtaining and/or using credit. The account creation module  132  obtains a user&#39;s information through the user interface layer  120  and provides authentication information to the user once a user account has been successfully created. The user later provides authentication information according to the established set of business rules. 
     In a further embodiment, account creation module  132  may allow the creation of a group account, such as a business or family account. In such an embodiment a group account includes one or more individuals identified as primary users and one or more users identified as secondary users. Accordingly, the one or more primary users may create business rules under which the one or more secondary users are to use authentication information when using the group account. For example, a primary user may set rules to require authentication information for any credit use transaction over a specified monetary amount, such as $100, within the United States, for example, and for any transaction outside the United States. 
     The account modification module  134  provides the processes and data for modifying a user account, such as, the name, address, phone number, e-mail address, account user name, or an account profile. Additionally, the account modification module  134  provides the processes and data for updating authentication information. Accordingly, various embodiments of account modification module  134  update authentication information according to existing business rules or business rules established by the user. 
     The user notification module  136  provides the processes and data for notification to a user of transactions or actions associated with a user&#39;s account. For example, in one embodiment, a user is notified when the user&#39;s authentication account information is used or modified. In another embodiment, a user is notified when an attempt is made to access the user&#39;s account, such as, an attempt to access a credit account. In a further embodiment in which group accounts are provided, one or more primary users are notified of secondary account activities. User notification module  136  provides additional security for the user&#39;s account by allowing the user an opportunity to verify and track account usage. 
     According to a further embodiment, the user notification module  136  generates and sends an e-mail message to the user. In a further embodiment, the user notification module  136  generates a message to a customer service representative who calls the user with the transaction information. In a further embodiment, the user establishes a business rule identifying the types of transactions and the preferred method in which the user will be contacted. 
     The authentication module  138  provides the processes and data for authenticating a user&#39;s identity when a user attempts to establish a new credit account, such as a credit card account, car loan, mortgage, or home equity line, among others, or during a credit use transaction, such as a credit card or debit purchase, an equity-line check use, or a pre-approved mortgage transaction, for example. In a further embodiment, the authentication module  138  may include credit applicant authentication module  1380  and credit use authentication module  1382  to provide dedicated modules for the authentication services of authentication module  138 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the authentication module  138  and the credit applicant authentication module  1380  in particular provide the processes and data for authenticating the identity of a credit applicant. During the credit application process, an applicant provides application information, as well as the applicant&#39;s authentication information. This information is provided to credit applicant authentication module  1380 , which compares the information with that associated with the applicant&#39;s authentication account to validate or invalidate the applicant&#39;s identity. 
     The authentication module  138  and the credit use authentication module  1382  in particular provide the processes and data for authenticating a user when the user attempts to use an established credit account. During a credit use transaction, information identifying the consumer, such as a credit card number, and authentication information are provided to the credit use authentication module  1382 . The credit use authentication module  1382  obtains authentication account information for the consumer based on the data supplied and compares the authentication information with that associated with the consumer&#39;s authentication account to validate or invalidate the consumer&#39;s identity. If validated, the transaction is allowed to proceed. 
     The credit authentication solution architecture  10 , as shown in  FIG. 1 , further includes data storage  140  interconnected with user services layer  130 . Data storage  140  maintains data obtained and created by the various service modules of user services layer  130 , including authentication account information and authentication information. In a further embodiment, data storage  140  maintains a user&#39;s credit history or credit report. In another embodiment, data storage  140  maintains credit account data, for example, credit limits, and purchase and payment data. In a further embodiment, data storage  140  maintains a user&#39;s credit history and transaction history matrix allowing further analysis and review for any other possibilities of fraudulent use of a user&#39;s account. 
     It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be used to protect any type of sensitive data. For example, in a further embodiment, data storage  140  may contain sensitive business information accessible only by those able to authenticate their identification through authentication module  138 . 
     In a further embodiment of the present invention, a third-party access module  150  is provided for communicating with third-party providers, such as credit bureaus or credit providers. For example, in one embodiment of the present invention, when a credit applicant authentication is requested and validated, a credit bureau is contacted to authorize the release of the applicant&#39;s credit history. In a further embodiment, a credit provider is contacted to validate or deny access to a consumer&#39;s credit account. 
     According to a further embodiment of the present invention, a third-party provider returns a message to the credit authentication solution architecture  10  providing the necessary information to complete the transaction. For example, in one embodiment, when credit applicant authentication is provided to a credit bureau, the credit bureau returns a message with the user&#39;s credit report, thus allowing the user services layer  130  to generate a message with the required information for the user to complete their application process. In a further embodiment, a third-party provider may forward information directly to the user. 
       FIG. 2  shows a block diagram of a credit authentication solution, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The credit authentication solution  20 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , includes a credit authentication network  240  and one or more user entry devices  210  for communicating with the credit authentication network  240 . The credit authentication network  240  allows a user to create and modify an authentication account, receive and update authentication information, receive notification of activities related to the user&#39;s authentication account, and present authentication information for identity validation when applying for credit or during credit use transaction. The credit authentication network  240 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , is configured with various servers; however, it can be appreciated by one skilled in the art that the software and hardware providing the described functionality within each of the identified servers could be combined or expanded in a variety of ways without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, in the simplest configurations, a single server could provide all of the functionality of the credit authentication network  240 . As a further, more complex, example, a distributed networking system could provide the functionality of the authentication network  240  where multiple servers are available and able to backup the functionality of any server that may be taken offline. 
     In  FIG. 2 , a user accesses the authentication network through user entry device  210 . User entry device  210  may include a personal computer, a telephone, point of service device, or biometric entry device, for example. Essentially, any device allowing entry of alphanumeric characters, responses to a menu driven interface, biometric information, or other data associated with a specific user or capable of providing a password or data associated with a specific individual may be used. Furthermore, one device or multiple devices may be used to provide data for a single transaction. For example, a user involved in a credit use transaction may provide credit card data through a scanning device and biometric information, such as a thumbprint, used as authentication information through a separate biometric device to complete the transaction. 
     According to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 2 , a user device may connect to the credit authentication network  240  through a computer network  220 , a customer service operator  230 , or via a direct dial connection. In one embodiment, a connection is made by user entry device  210  through network  220  to web server  2402  of authentication network  240 . Computer network  220  may be a wide area network, such as the Internet, or a local area network, such as a network within a business. 
     According to a further embodiment, user entry device  210  accesses the authentication network  240  through customer service representative  230 . In one embodiment, customer service representative  230  interacts with credit authentication network  240  through network  220  to web server  2402 . In a further embodiment, customer service representative  230  interacts with credit authentication network  240  through a direct connection with call server  2404 . According to another embodiment, user entry device  210  accesses authentication network  240  through call server  2404 . 
     As shown in the embodiment provided in  FIG. 2 , authentication network  240  includes web server  2402  and call server  2404  as user access points, notification server  2406 , account management server  2408 , credit authentication server  2410 , credit use authentication server  2412 , data storage server  2414 , and third-party call server  2416 . Web server  2402  provides a user access point and security mechanisms between computer network  220  and credit authentication network  240 . Web server  2402  also provides a communication interface for user entry device  210 . For example, in one embodiment, web server  2402  provides a graphical user interface via a web browser or other presentation mechanism for presenting data to or collecting data from a user. In a further embodiment, customer service representative  230  connects to web server  2402  through network  220  to assist a user with entering data or receiving data from authentication network  240 . In a further embodiment, web server  2402  provides virtual private network functionality to ensure a secure connection is maintained between the user entry device  210  and the authentication network  240 . 
     The call server  2404 , as shown in  FIG. 2 , also provides a user access point and security mechanisms for access to the authentication network  240 . In one embodiment, call server  2404  includes interactive voice response (“IVR”) technology providing interactive menus controlled with voice commands or data entry. In a further embodiment, call server  2404  provides a graphical user interface allowing a user to dial directly to the user authentication network  240 . In further embodiments, customer service representative  230  accesses authentication network  240  through call server  2404  to assist customers with accessing authentication network  240 . 
     The account management server  2408  provides the processes and data for creating or modifying an authentication account and obtain authentication information. A user interacts with account management server  2408  through an access point, such as web server  2402  or call server  2402 . In a further embodiment, a user may also establish a user profile. A user profile maintains user preferences and business rules for a variety of activity with the user&#39;s authentication account. For example, a user profile may include preferences such as the number of times or duration of time authentication information may be used before it must be changed, geographic locations in which authentication information is required for a transaction, or financial limits in which authentication information is required for a transaction, the type of identification that is required before authentication information may be validated for a particular transaction, when a user should be notified of a transaction, or a preferred method of notifying a user, among other information. The account management server  2408  stores account data, authentication information, and any user profile on storage server  2414 . 
     The account management server  2408  also enables a user&#39;s ability to modify account and profile data, as well as create or request renewed authentication information. In one embodiment, a user is required to provide authentication information to modify any information associated with the user&#39;s authentication account. In a further embodiment, additional information, such as an account user identification and password are required to modify a user account. 
     In a further embodiment, a user may configure a group account, such as a business or family account, through account management server  2408 . A group account provides an account with one or more primary users and one or more secondary users. Primary users may create and modify profiles for themselves and for the secondary users. For example, a business credit account may be established in which a manager controls the features associated with credit cards assigned to employees supervised by the manager. The manager may create profiles with business rules for each credit card within the business account and require authentication information for specified transactions, such as any transaction above a specified monetary limit, any transaction within or outside of a specified geographical area, or any transaction within or outside of a specific timeframe, among others. In a further embodiment, a primary user may establish a business rule for receiving notifications for specified transactions of secondary users. 
     It will be apparent to one skilled in the art that the present invention may be used to protect sensitive business information. It will also be apparent that business rules may be established for accessing business information by numerous individuals within a business organization. 
     The credit authentication server  2410  provides the processes and access to data necessary to validate a user&#39;s identity during a credit authentication transaction. A user interacts with credit authentication server  2410  through an access point, such as web server  2402  or call server  2404 . During a credit authentication transaction, the credit authentication server obtains information, such as data from a user&#39;s credit application. In one embodiment, this information may include the user&#39;s authentication information. In a further embodiment, the credit authentication server requests the user&#39;s authentication information. Credit authentication server  2410  also obtains the user&#39;s authentication account information from storage server  2414 , which includes the authentication network&#39;s copy of the user&#39;s authentication information. The credit authentication server  2410  compares the authentication information provided by the user and the authentication information stored with the user&#39;s account to validate the user and provide or allow access to information requested by the credit provider, such as the user&#39;s credit history. 
     According to one embodiment of the present invention, a user&#39;s credit history is maintained in storage server  2414 . In a further embodiment, a communication is sent via third-party call server  2416  to a credit bureau validating the user&#39;s identity and requesting the user&#39;s credit history. In one such embodiment, the credit history is allowed to proceed to the authentication network through the third-party call server  2416  where it is forwarded to the credit provider by the authentication network  240 . In a further embodiment, a message is sent to the credit bureau validating the user&#39;s identity, wherein the credit bureau forwards the credit history directly to the credit provider. 
     The credit use authentication server  2412  provides the processes and data for authenticating a user during a credit use transaction, such as a credit card purchase, for example. During a transaction, credit card information is provided through an access point such as web server  2402  or call server  2404 . For example, in one embodiment, a merchant may provide a user&#39;s credit card information, such as the user&#39;s name, credit card number, and credit card expiration date. Credit use authentication server  2412  then obtains the user&#39;s account data from storage server  2414  to verify the accuracy of the information provided. The credit use authentication server  2412  would then request the user&#39;s authentication information. Once the authentication information is provided, the credit use authentication server  2412  verifies the authentication information provided by the user with the authentication information stored with the user&#39;s account data. If the authentication information matches, the credit information is validated and a message is returned to the merchant approving the continuation of the transaction. 
     According to further embodiments of the present invention, the notification server  2406  is used to notify users of activities associated with their accounts. Information may be provided to a user via an e-mail, a phone call from customer service representative  230 , or through an automated messaging system via call server  2404 . 
     According to one embodiment, the notification server  2406  contacts user for each transaction associated with the user&#39;s account. In further embodiments, a user may establish a user profile identifying the types of transactions in which the user wishes to receive notification, such as transactions over a specified monetary amount or transactions within or outside of a specific geographic area. Further embodiments provide notifications to a primary user of transactions made by secondary users within a group account. 
     The storage server  2414  provides data storage for the data obtained or created by the various services provided by the authentication network  240 . In a further storage server  2414  maintains a user&#39;s credit data, such as credit reports or histories, or credit account information. 
     According to a further embodiment, authentication network  240  also includes third-party server  2416  for communicating with third-party credit vendors, such as credit bureaus or credit providers. 
     In operation, a user first establishes a credit authentication account by accessing authentication network  240  with user entry device  210 . Once an account is established, a user is provided with authentication information for verifying the user&#39;s identity when obtaining or using credit. In one embodiment, authentication information may be a password or personal identification number. In a further embodiment, authentication information includes a user identification and a password or personal identification number. In another embodiment, biometric information may be provided in lieu of a password or personal identification number. 
     When obtaining credit, a user supplies information to authentication network  240  to establish their identity. The user then provides their authentication information to verify their identity. Credit authentication server  2410  obtains the user&#39;s authentication account information from storage server  2414  and compares the authentication information supplied by the user with the authentication information stored on storage server  2414 . If the authentication information matches, the user&#39;s identity is verified and the transaction continues based on the established rules for that particular transaction. For example, the user&#39;s credit information, such as their credit history is provided to the user or the credit provider. In one embodiment, the credit information is maintained on a storage server  2414  within authentication network  240 . 
     In a further embodiment, the credit information is maintained by a third-party credit bureau. Accordingly, credit authentication network  240  sends a message validity the user&#39;s identity to the third-party via the third-party server  2416 . The third-party may provide the credit information directly to the user or the credit provider. In a further embodiment, the third-party returns the credit information to the authentication network  240  for delivery to the user or credit provider. 
     When using credit, a user supplies credit account information, such as a credit card number, to authentication network  240  to establish their identity. The user also provides their authentication information to verify their identity. Credit use authentication server  2412  obtains the user&#39;s authentication account information from storage server  2414  and compares the authentication information supplied by the user with the authentication information associated with the user&#39;s credit authentication account and stored on storage server  2414 . If the authentication information matches, the user&#39;s identity is verified and the user&#39;s credit transaction is continued. 
     In one embodiment, authentication network  240  authorizes the credit transaction. In a further embodiment, the user&#39;s credit provider is notified via third-party server  2416 . 
     According to an embodiment of the present invention, after authentication information is used to verify a user&#39;s identity, the authentication must be renewed by the user. To renew authentication information a user accesses the credit authentication network  240  via user entry device  210 . The user accesses the account management server  2408  to renew authentication information. In a further embodiment, a message is sent via notification server  2406  to remind the user to renew their authentication information. In further embodiments, notification server  2406  notifies the user of the use or attempted use of authentication information. 
       FIG. 3  shows a process flow diagram for authenticating a credit applicant, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 , in step  310  a user creates a user account and obtains or creates authentication information. The authentication information created may be a single identification and/or password, or a master identification and/or password for creating a second identification and/or password, such as an instance identification and/or password, wherein the second identification and/or password is used for authenticating the credit applicant and the master identification and/or password is used to regenerate a new second identification and/or password as required by the embodiment of the invention implemented. 
     In a further embodiment, the applicant may provide biometric information, such as a finger or thumbprint, an iris scan, voice sample, or some other data for uniquely identifying the user. According to various embodiments of the present invention, the biometric information may be used as the individual&#39;s identification information or as the master information for obtaining a second identification and/or password. 
     In a further embodiment, an identification and/or password may also be created and used to access the user&#39;s data via a network or other system. For example, a virtual private network (“VPN”) may be used to access an applicant&#39;s account for which an identification and/or password are used to enter the VPN. 
     In step  320  of  FIG. 3 , the user fills out a credit application. The application may be any type of application used by a credit provider to obtain the necessary information from the user. For example, an application may be a simple form filled out with a pen or pencil, a form provided on-line filled out via a computer terminal, or other device used to obtain information from the user. In step  322 , the credit application is then submitted or provided to the credit provider. The application may be submitted in person to the credit provider, provided via an online form, sent via the mail, or other delivery service. For purposes of the present invention the credit provider may be the entity providing credit to the applicant or simply an intermediate entity empowered to process an application on behalf of the entity providing credit. 
     In step  324 , the credit provider requests the credit history of the user as identified on the application form. According to one embodiment the request is made to a credit bureau. In a further embodiment, the request is made to an authentication entity for authenticating a credit applicant&#39;s identity. 
     In step  330 , the credit bureau or authentication entity then requests the user&#39;s authentication information. Turning to step  332 , the user then provides the authentication information directly to the credit bureau or authentication entity or to the credit provider to enter the information on behalf of the user. For example, a user may provide authentication information via a telephone, a key-pad or computer terminal, or may provide biometric information through an appropriate device made available to the user. A user may also provide a password or identification to the credit provider to pass on to the credit bureau or authentication entity. 
     In step  340 , the credit bureau or authentication entity attempts to validate the authentication information. If the authentication information is valid, the process moves to step  342  where the credit history is authorized and provided to the credit provider. In one embodiment, the credit bureau validates the authentication information and provides the credit history to the credit provider. In a further embodiment, the authentication entity validates the authentication information and reports the validation to the credit bureau. The credit bureau may then provide the credit history to the credit provider directly or provide the credit history to the authentication entity, which will then provide the credit history to the credit provider. If the authentication information is invalid, the process moves to step  344  where access to the credit history is denied. 
     According to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 3 , whether the authentication information is validated or not, the process continues in step  350  where the credit bureau or authentication entity also reports the results of the authentication process by contacting the user associated with the authentication information used and providing key information, such as the time, date, and location that the request for credit was made, and a reminder to regenerate authentication information, if necessary. The report may be made via phone, mail, e-mail, instant message, or any other method agreed upon by the applicant. 
     In an embodiment in which authentication information must be renewed one or more reminders may be sent to the applicant to remind him or her that renewal is necessary. Renewal notification may also be provided by phone, mail, e-mail, instant message, or any other method agreed upon by the applicant. 
     According to one embodiment of the present invention, authentication information is invalidated after it is used and must be renewed before access to the applicant&#39;s credit history will be allowed. In a further embodiment, authentication information is invalidated after a specified time period. According to another embodiment, authentication information is invalidated after a specific number of uses. Accordingly, authentication information is renewed in step  360 , if necessary, and a user may provide authentication information at step  332  of a subsequent request for credit based on a specified business rule, such as monetary limit or geographic location, for example. 
       FIG. 4  shows a process flow diagram for authenticating a credit user, according to an embodiment of the present invention. In the embodiment shown in  FIG. 4 , in step  410  a user creates a user account and creates authentication information with an authentication bureau, which may be a credit bureau or other authentication entity designated for authenticating a user&#39;s identity. The authentication information created may be a single identification and/or password, or a master identification and/or password for creating a second identification and/or password, such as an instance identification and/or password, wherein the second identification and/or password is used for authenticating the credit applicant and the master identification and/or password is used to regenerate a new second identification and/or password as required by the embodiment of the invention implemented. 
     In a further embodiment, the applicant may provide biometric information, such as a finger or thumbprint, an iris scan, voice sample, or some other data for uniquely identifying the user. According to various embodiments of the present invention, the biometric information may be used as the individual&#39;s identification information or as the master information for obtaining a second identification and/or password. 
     In a further embodiment, an identification and/or password may also be created and used to access the user&#39;s data via a network or other system. For example, a virtual private network (“VPN”) may be used to access an applicant&#39;s account for which an identification and/or password are used to enter the VPN. 
     In step  420  of  FIG. 4 , the user requests access to the user&#39;s established credit account. For example, a user may present a card or credit-line check to make a purchase or request access to pre-authorized financing, such as a pre-authorized mortgage. 
     In step  430 , the user&#39;s authentication information is requested. In step  440 , the user provides the authentication information to the authentication entity. In a further embodiment, the user may simply provide the authentication information in step  420  with the request to access the user&#39;s credit account. A user may provide authentication information via a telephone, a key-pad or computer terminal, or may provide biometric information through an appropriate device made available to the user. A user may also provide authentication information directly to a retailer to pass on to the authentication entity. 
     In step  450 , the authentication entity attempts to validate the authentication information provided by the user. If the authentication information is valid, the process moves to step  460  where the credit use is authorized and access to the credit account is provided. If the authentication information is invalid, the process moves to step  470  where credit use is denied. 
     According to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 4 , whether the authentication information is validated or not, the process continues in step  480  where the authentication entity reports the results of the authentication process by contacting the user associated with the account and authentication information used and providing key information, such as the time, date, and location that the request for credit was made, and a reminder to renew authentication information, if necessary. The report may be made via phone, mail, e-mail, instant message, or any other method agreed upon by the applicant. 
     In an embodiment in which authentication information must be renewed, one or more reminders may be sent to the applicant to remind him or her that renewal is necessary. Renewal notification may also be provided by phone, mail, e-mail, instant message, or any other method agreed upon by the applicant. 
     According to one embodiment of the present invention, authentication information is invalidated after it is used and must be renewed before access to the applicant&#39;s established credit will be allowed. In a further embodiment, authentication information is invalidated after a specified time period. According to another embodiment, authentication information is invalidated after a specific number of uses. Accordingly, authentication information is renewed in step  490 , if necessary, and a user may provide authentication information with a subsequent credit use transaction. 
       FIG. 5  illustrates a secure authentication system  500  in accordance with one example. The secure authentication system  500  includes a processor  502 , an authentication device  504 , and a client device  506 . The processor  502  transmits, over the Internet, a data packet that comprises a request to access secure data associated with an entity. The data packet is received, over the Internet, by the authentication device  504 . 
     The authentication device  504  accesses configuration information associated with the entity. The configuration information comprises plurality of conditions for performing authentication, configuration information comprising stored authentication information obtained from entity. The authentication device  504  generates a set of parameters based on the data packet and determines that the set of parameters satisfies one or more of a plurality of conditions for performing authentication. In response to determining that set of parameters satisfies one or more of plurality of conditions for performing authentication, the authentication device  504  establishes communications link over Internet with the client device  506 . The client device  506  is associated with the secure data. The authentication device  504  transmits an instruction to client device, over the Internet, to perform authentication for accessing the secure data. 
     The client device  506  include many different types of authentication devices (e.g., biometric authentication devices, such as fingerprint readers, facial recognition and voice recognition and physical readers or scanners, such as RFID scanners or image capture devices). The client device  506  performs authentication using two or more of the physical authentication devices. A first of the two or more physical authentication devices comprises a biometric device. The client device  506  receives interaction with the two or more physical authentication devices and generates authentication data based on the interaction. As an example, the client device  506  transmits a data packet that includes the authentication data to the authentication device  504  over the Internet. 
     The authentication device  504  receives the authentication data from the client device  506 . The authentication device  504  determines that the authentication data corresponds to authentication information stored in the configuration information. For example, the authentication device  504  determines that the authentication data matches the previously stored authentication information for the entity. The authentication device  504  enables access to the secure data in response to determining that authentication data received from client device  506  corresponds to authentication information stored in configuration information. For example, the authentication device  504  enables the processor  502  to access the secure data over the Internet. Certain examples of the authentication device  104  are discussed in greater detail in commonly-owned Bradley Handler U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/265,506, filed on Nov. 3, 2005, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 
       FIG. 6  illustrates a routine  600  for performing authentication in accordance with one example. Routine  600  is performed by the authentication device  504  discussed above in connection with  FIG. 5 . 
     In block  602 , routine  600  receives a data packet over the Internet, the data packet comprising a request to access secure data associated with an entity. In block  604 , routine  600  accesses configuration information associated with the entity, the configuration information comprising a plurality of conditions for performing authentication, the configuration information comprising stored authentication information obtained from the entity. In block  606 , routine  600  generates a set of parameters based on the data packet. In block  608 , routine  600  determines that the set of parameters satisfies one or more of the plurality of conditions for performing authentication. In block  610 , routine  600  in response to determining that the set of parameters satisfies one or more of the plurality of conditions for performing authentication, establishes a communications link over the Internet with a client device, the client device being associated with the secure data. In block  612 , routine  600  transmits an instruction to the client device to perform the authentication for accessing the secure data, wherein the client device performs the authentication using two or more physical authentication devices, a first of the two or more physical authentication devices comprising a biometric device. In block  614 , routine  600  receives a message from the client device comprising authentication data, the authentication data being generated by interaction with the two or more physical authentication devices. In block  616 , routine  600  enables access to the secure data in response to determining that the authentication data received from the client device corresponds to the authentication information stored in the configuration information. 
     It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the spirit or scope of the invention. Thus, it is intended that the present invention cover the modifications and variations of this invention provided that they come within the scope of any claims and their equivalents.