Patent ID: 8681780

Claim:
A computer-implemented method for initiating an internet voice connection between a user computer and a service provider computer, the method comprising: detecting a first request from a browser on the user computer, the first request to initiate an internet voice connection between the user computer and the service provider computer; receiving credentials associated with a user of the user computer, wherein the credentials have been previously established; determining that the credentials are valid; generating a first unique identifier including an encrypted key, wherein the first unique identifier is distinct from the credentials and is for use in authenticating the user when establishing the internet voice connection; transmitting the first unique identifier to the browser; invoking an audio application from the browser to establish the internet voice connection and to automatically provide the first unique identifier in lieu of a verbal recitation of at least one credential by the user; and using the first unique identifier provided by the audio application in lieu of the verbal recitation of the at least one credential by the user to authenticate the user.