Patent ID: 8413885

Claim:
A processor-based method for combating counterfeiting and gray market, comprising the steps of: accessing, via a secure communication link, a web platform comprising a network-connected server on which software that provides functionalities for the method executes; generating, using the web platform, a unique identifier (“UID”) for every product unit being produced by a manufacturer; saving the UID in a database that is part of the web platform; communicating the UID to the manufacturer; associating the UID with a product unit such that the UID is physically hidden; verifying the authenticity of the UID, after the UID was uncovered and sent to the web platform using a device capable of communication with the web platform by a third party who received the product unit; automatically registering the third party in the manufacturer's product community, which is a social media based community comprising members who previously received a product unit and sent its UID to the web platform; and, sending a message from the web platform to the third party's device indicating whether or not the verified UID is authentic.