WO2003025824A1

WO2003025824A1 - Method and system for processing a transaction

Info

Publication number: WO2003025824A1
Application number: PCT/US2002/030077
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jennifer Truitt; M. Brendan Philbin; Joseph M. Lynam; Ken R. Dawson
Original assignee: Paymentone Corporation
Priority date: 2001-09-21
Filing date: 2002-09-23
Publication date: 2003-03-27
Also published as: BR0212723A; US7080049B2; EP1436752A1; US20070199985A9; CA2461009A1; EP1436752A4; US7527194B2; US20060219775A1; US20030200182A1

Abstract

A method of, and system for, processing payment for a transaction is provided. The method includes providing a user with an option to select payment for the transaction from an account associated with a communication line via which an electronic terminal is connected to a communication network. The communication line is typically a subscriber line and, accordingly, the account is a telephone account associated with the subscriber line. When a user transacts with a vendor for goods and/or services, the user may request to process payment using the telephone account instead of using a credit or debit card. The method includes investigating data using the telephone number associated with the subscriber line and, selectively approving the transaction dependent upon an outcome of the investigation. The invention extends to a transaction processor interface and to a transaction validation module. The invention also extends to computer program products including the invention.

Description

METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR PROCESSING A TRANSACTION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to transaction processing and, more specifically, to processing a transaction between a vendor and a user via an electronic terminal connected by a communication line to a communication network. The invention extends to a method and system for validating a subscriber line.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

An increasing number of vendors are offering goods and/or services which may be purchased via a communication network such as a telecommunication network. For example, a purchaser may conduct a transaction via a subscriber line using a landline telephone or a personal computer via the Internet. Conventionally, credit or debit card details are furnished by the purchaser to the vendor to effect payment for the goods and/or services. As many purchasers are hesitant to supply credit or debit card details over a communication network, an alternate method of payment would be advantageous. However, if an alternate method is used, verification of the payment method should preferably take place prior to concluding the transaction.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In accordance with the invention, there is provided a method of processing payment for a transaction, the method including: providing a user with an option, via an electronic terminal, to select payment for the transaction from an account associated with a communication line to which the electronic terminal is connected; receiving a user request entered into the terminal to process payment from the account; investigating data associated with the communication line; and selectively approving the transaction dependent upon an outcome of the investigation. Further in accordance with the invention, there is provided a method of modifying a financial instrument record, the method including: receiving transaction data entered into an electronic terminal connected via a communication line to a communication network; obtaining a unique identifier associated with the communication line; and combining the unique identifier and the transaction data to form a financial instrument record.

Still further in accordance with the invention, there is provided a method of validating a transaction conducted using an electronic terminal connected via a subscriber line to an electronic network, the method including: receiving a financial instrument record associated with the transaction; extracting a unique identifier from the financial instrument record, the unique identifier being associated with the communication line; and interrogating at least one database based on the unique identifier to obtain data associated with the subscriber line and selectively generating a validation status.

The invention extends to a transaction processing system for processing a transaction between a vendor and an electronic terminal connected via a communication line to a communication network, the system including: an application interface for providing a user, via the electronic terminal, with an option to select payment for the transaction from an account associated with the communication line, and receiving a user request entered into the terminal to process payment from the account; and a modification module connected to the application interface, the modification module generating a record which includes a unique identifier associated with the communication line and communicating the record to a validation module which validates the transaction based on data associated with the unique identifier.

The invention also extends to a transaction processor interface for processing payment of a transaction, the interface including: an application interface for providing a user with an option, via an electronic terminal, to select payment for the transaction from an account associated with a communication line to which the electronic terminal is connected, and for receiving a user request entered into the electronic terminal to process payment from the account; and a modification module for creating a financial instrument record which includes a unique identifier associated with the communication line.

The invention extends further to a transaction validation module for validating a transaction conducted using an electronic terminal connected via a communication line to an electronic network, the module including: an extraction module for extracting a unique identifier from a financial instrument record associated with a transaction, the unique identifier being associated with the communication line ; and a processor module for interrogating at least one database based on the unique identifier to obtain data associated with the communication line and selectively generating a validation status.

Further in accordance with the invention, there is provided a computer program product including a medium readable by a processor, the medium carrying instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: provide a user with an option, via an electronic terminal, to select payment for a transaction from an account associated with a communication line to which the electronic terminal is connected; receive a user request entered into the terminal to process payment from the account; investigate data associated with the communication line; and selectively approve the transaction dependent upon an outcome of the investigation.

Still further in accordance with the invention, there is provided a computer program product including a medium readable by a processor, the medium carrying instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive transaction data entered into an electronic terminal connected via a communication line to a communication network; obtain a unique identifier associated with the communication line; and combine the unique identifier and the transaction data to form a financial instrument record.

Still further in accordance with the invention, there is provided a computer program product including a medium readable by a processor, the medium carrying instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive a financial instrument record associated with a transaction conducted using an electronic terminal connected via a subscriber line connected to a communication network; extract a unique identifier from the financial instrument record, the unique identifier being associated with the communication line; and interrogate at least one database based on the unique identifier to obtain data associated with the unique identifier and selectively generate a validation status.

Still further in accordance with the invention, there is provided a method to provide validation data associated with a subscriber line of a telecommunication network, the method including: obtaining line data of the subscriber line, the line data being suitable for interrogating a line identification database (LIDB); interrogating the LIDB with the line data to obtain reference subscriber data associated with the line data; and processing the reference subscriber data to obtain validation data associated with the subscriber line.

Still further in accordance with the invention, there is provided a subscriber line validation system for validating a subscriber line of a communication network, the system including: a communication module for receiving line data of the subscriber line, the line data being suitable for interrogating a line identification database (LIDB); an interrogation module for interrogating the LIDB with the line data to obtain reference subscriber data associated with the line data; and a processor module for processing the reference subscriber data to obtain validation data associated with the subscriber line.

Further in accordance with the invention, there is provided a system to provide validation data associated with a subscriber line of a telecommunication network, the system including means for obtaining line data of the subscriber line, the line data being suitable for interrogating a line identification database (LIDB); means for interrogating the LIDB with the line data to obtain reference subscriber data associated with the line data; and means for processing the reference subscriber data to obtain validation data associated with the subscriber line.

Other features of the present invention will be apparent from the accompanying drawings and from the detailed description that follows.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The invention is now described, by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying diagrammatic drawings.

In the drawings,

Figure 1 shows a schematic block diagram of a system, in accordance with the invention, for processing a transaction;

Figure 2 shows a schematic block diagram of a method used in the prior art to process a transaction electronically;

Figure 3 shows a schematic block diagram of a method, in accordance with the invention, for processing a transaction;

Figure 4 shows a schematic block diagram of a billing cycle used in the method of Figure 3;

Figure 5 shows a schematic block diagram of functional modules, also in accordance with the invention, used by a vendor;

Figure 6 shows a schematic block diagram of transaction validation and processing modules, also in accordance with the invention, used in the system; Figure 7 shows a schematic representation of a client interface in the form of an electronic terminal used to conduct the transaction;

Figure 8 shows a schematic representation of a screen display or layout provided at the client interface;

Figure 9 shows a schematic representation of a further screen layout provided at the client interface;

Figure 10 shows a schematic representation of a screen display at the client interface for choosing a payment method;

Figure 11 shows a schematic representation of a screen display at the client interface for confirming a billing telephone number (BTN);

Figure 12 shows a schematic representation of a screen display at the client which is displayed whilst validation of the client telephone number takes place;

Figure 13 shows a schematic representation of a flow diagram illustrating the validation process;

Figure 14 shows a schematic flow diagram of a bill cycle transaction event;

Figure 15 shows a more detailed schematic block diagram of the transaction validation and processing modules of Figure 6;

Figure 16 shows a schematic representation of a sample telephone bill platform or account which the system automatically updates;

Figures 17-19 show schematic flow charts of the validation method or procedure carried out by the validation module of Figures 6 and 15; and

Figure 20 shows a diagrammatic representation of machine in the exemplary form of a computer system within which a set of instructions, for causing the machine to perform any one of the methodologies discussed herein, may be executed.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to the drawings, reference numeral 20 general indicates a system for processing payment of a transaction. The system 20 includes a merchant or vendor 22, a plurality of client interfaces in the form of electronic terminals 24 (only 1 of which is shown in the drawings), a plurality of telephone companies (Telcos) 26 (only 1 of which is shown in the drawings), and a transaction validation and processing facility 28 including a transaction validation and processing module 30 (see Figure 6), also in accordance to the invention. The vendor 22 includes a transaction processor interface defined by an application interface and modification module 32 (see Figure 5) and, as will be described in more detail below, the system 20 with its transaction validation and processing module 30 allows a user to purchase goods and/or services from the vendor 22 via the electronic terminal 24 in such a fashion so that charges for the transaction are included in a telephone account 34 (see Figure 16) of the user.

The system 20 is typically configured for use in an Internet environment in which a plurality of vendors 22 offer goods and/or services for sale on the Internet via the electronic terminals 24 which are typically personal computers (PCs). It is important to appreciate that the modules 30, 32 describe functional modules or capabilities which may be implemented by a variety of different hardware and software combinations.

Conventionally, and as shown in Figure 2, in order to procure payment for goods and/or services, a user or purchaser using the electronic terminal 24 enters financial card details, e.g., credit card, debit card, or any other financial instrument details, which are then communicated (see line 38 in Figure 2) to a vendor, as shown at 40, which then communicates with a credit card gateway 42. The credit card gateway 42 may then either accept or reject the transaction. However, many users are unwilling to submit financial card information to vendors, inter alia, for security reasons. Further, many users who have access to the Internet do not in fact possess financial cards (hereinafter referred to as credit cards) and are thus unable to transact via the Internet.

Referring in particular to Figure 3 of the drawings, in one embodiment of the invention the system 20 receives transaction data 44 which is then formatted substantially to resemble a conventional credit card transaction 46 which is then converted or modified and payment for the transaction is included in a telephone bill or account as shown at block 48. As will be described in more detail below, each particular transaction or billing event is not immediately included in the telephone account 34 at the Telco 26, but during a billing cycle (see Figure 4) which occurs periodically, e.g., daily, weekly, monthly or at any other interval. Accordingly, communications 50 take place during billing events between the transaction validation and processing facility 28 and the vendor 22 and a record of each transaction is kept at the facility 28 as shown by block 52 in Figure 4. The facility 28, with its transaction validation and processing module 30, in an automated fashion at the end of a billing cycle, processes the transactions into the relevant telephone accounts at the relevant Telcos 26 as shown at block 54.

Referring in particular to Figure 5 of the drawings, the vendor 22 uses the application interface and modification module 32 to interface to the communication network, typically the Internet, so that the user may communicate with the vendor 22 via the electronic terminal 24. The module 32 includes an application interface (API) 56, a customer management system (CMS) 58, an automatic number identification (ANI) module 60, a modification module 62, and a communication module 64. The communication module 64 is configured to communicate with the transaction validation and processing module 30, which is typically located offsite. In use, the API 56 provides the electronic terminal 24 with a user interface whereby the user can purchase goods and/or services and this may be provided in a conventional fashion. Once the user has selected the goods and/or services he or she wishes to purchase, the API 56 communicates a display screen or form 66 to the electronic terminal 24 as shown in Figure 8. Typically, the API 56 requests the user to enter into the form 66 name, address, city, state, zip, day time phone number, evening phone number, or the like information. Typically, the evening phone number defines a billing telephone number (BTN) which is associated with the telephone account 34. Thereafter, the various terms and or conditions of the transaction are communicated to the user in the form of a display screen 68 as shown in Figure 9. The user is then compelled either to accept or decline the terms by activating buttons 70, 72 respectively, typically by means of a mouse or pointing device in a conventional fashion.

Once the user has accepted the terms, the API 56 then provides the user with a display screen 74 which allows the user to select various different methods of payment for the transaction. For example, the display screen 74 includes a "Visa" button 76, a "MasterCard" button 78, "American Express" button 80, and a "bank account" button 82. However, unlike conventional systems, the system 20 provides the user with a "phone bill" button 84 whereby the user can charge the transaction to the telephone account 34 (see Figure 16).

If the user selects the option to pay via the telephone account 34 by activating the "phone bill" button 84, the API 56 then provides the user with a screen display 86 (see Figure 11 ) which requests the user to confirm the BTN associated with the telephone account 34. The screen display 86 includes a "yes" button 88 for the user to confirm the telephone number which is shown at 90, and a "no" button 92 which is activated in the event of the telephone number being incorrect. If the telephone number shown at 90 is incorrect, the user then is prompted to re-enter a corrected telephone number. Once the user has activated the "yes" button 88, the API 56 then communicates a display screen 94 to the electronic terminal 24 to advise the user that he or she should wait while the request is authorized. It is to be appreciated however that the description above is merely an example of how a user may be provided with various interfaces to allow the user to select a mode or method of payment associated with the telephone account 34. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that user data may be obtained in a variety of different ways. For example, an application may be downloaded to the electronic terminal 24 which requests and obtains the relevant data from the user and which is then subsequently communicated to the vendor 22.

The BTN which the user enters into the form 66 should correspond with the subscriber line 96 (see Figure 1) via which the electronic terminal 24 is connected to the communication network. Accordingly, the ANI module 60 automatically identifies or determines the telephone number of the subscriber line 96 so that a comparison between the two can be made. The BTN thus defines a unique identifier associated with the communication line and with which the telephone account 34 corresponds.

The user's request, via the electronic terminal 24 and via the subscriber line 96 (which may be any communication line associated with the account 34), is then communicated to the CMS 58 which then formats the request to form a request record with information provided by the user via the electronic terminal 24 (see block 98 in Figure 13). As shown at decision step 100, the module 32 checks to determine whether or not a credit card number is present in the record and, if so, the record is communicated to a credit card gateway for processing in a conventional fashion and the procedure terminates as shown at step 102. This situation typically arises when the user has not selected the telephone account option by activating the "phone bill" button 84 but, instead, selected one of the other methods of payment, e.g., the "Visa" button 76, the "MasterCard" button 78, the "American Express" button 80, or the "bank account" button 82.

However, if the "phone bill" button 84 has been activated and a credit card number is not present in the record, the CMS 58, in combination with the modification module 62, modifies the credit card record to include the telephone number identified by the ANI module 60. Accordingly, the credit card or financial record communicated from the vendor 22 to the transaction validation and processing facility 28 substantially resembles a conventional or industry standard credit card record except that, instead of a credit card number, the telephone number associated with the subscriber line 96 is included (see step 104). In the embodiment of the invention in which the credit card number has been replaced with the telephone number, and as the record substantially resembles and industry standard credit card record, existing or conventional customer management systems may be used to process the transaction. Thus, the CMS 58 may be a conventional customer management system.

The application interface and modification module 32 of the vendor 22, communicates the transaction record to the transaction validation and processing module 30 of the facility 28 via the communication module 64. The module 30 then receives the record as shown at step 106 whereafter it is processed. The transaction validation and processing module 30 (see Figure 6) includes a line number extraction module 108, a processor module 110, and an OBF exchange interface 112. It is important to appreciate that the application interface and modification module 32 and the transaction validation and processing module 30 may be defined by one or more servers which are programmed appropriately. Thus, the blocks or modules may represent functional components of software running on the server. Typically, each vendor 22 has a server programmed and configured to implement the application interface and modification module 32 and the vendors 22 are connected via a communications network to a central transaction processing and validation facility 28. Accordingly the servers at the facility 28 may receive validation and processing requests from a plurality of different offsite servers provided at different vendors 22.

The processor module 110 first checks, at step 114, if all the information required for validation has been furnished by the vendor 22 and, if not, the request is returned to vendor 22 as shown in step 116. If, however, all the information required by the module 30 is present in the record, the credit card record received is then parsed and the billing telephone number (BTN) is extracted from the credit card record and formatted into a validation request as shown at step 118. Thereafter, as described more detail in Figures 13 and 14, the module 30 performs various checks during which the subscriber line 96 is validated (see step 120). If the BTN progresses to a LIDB interrogation step (as described in more detail below with reference to steps 264 to 286 in Figure 17), the request is then reformatted into a LIDB request to obtain LIDB response information (see step 122). The LIDB database 124 (see Figure 13) is then interrogated and the LIDB response is received and parsed for relevant information whereafter it is reformatted into a BTN validation request as shown at step 126. Thereafter, and as described in more detail below with reference to Figures 18 and 19, the processor module 110 performs further validation checks (see step 128 in Figure 13 and steps 296 to 338 in Figures 18 and 19). Once the request has been investigated, the various databases have been interrogated, and the results retrieved therefrom processed, the processor module 110 then translates the validation response in to a credit card authorization response format, which is typically a conventional or industry standard format so that an industry standard or conventional CMS 58 can process the response. The response is then communicated from the facility 28 to the vendor 22 (see step 130). The CMS 58 then receives the reformatted response, updates purchase data, and creates an account for the user as shown in step 132. Thereafter, the API 56 communicates a display screen 134 to the electronic terminal 24 which thanks the user for ordering the good and/or services. Each transaction defines a billing event which is recorded at the vendor 22 and, together with other billing events, is communicated to the facility 28 at the end of a billing cycle (see block 136). Typically, this marks the end of the BTN validation procedure from the credit card authorization record translation as shown at block 138.

The method described above broadly translates a record requiring validation from an existing financial instrument form, e.g., a credit card form, to a form that is suitable to be validated based on a unique identifier associated with the subscriber line 96. Although the description above, and the more detailed description below, describe the translation from a credit card record to an appropriate record to validate a ANI/BTN, it is to be appreciated that any data associated with a financial instrument may be translated into a BTN format and, in response to validation of the BTN, the transaction may be processed. Further, the validation of the BTN may take place one or more times during the life cycle of a transaction. For example, the validation process may be executed when the user or customer request the transaction to be included in the telephone account 34 as described above and, when the facility 28 receives a plurality of billing events or transactions at the end of a bill cycle, the facility 28 may once again validate the transaction. In certain embodiments, the user or purchaser drives an authorization event in order to establish whether or not the transaction can be billed to the telephone account 34. In this case, the Billing Telephone Number (BTN) defines the credit instrument requiring authorization for billing. The CMS 58 may then drive the request to the facility 28 in the same format as it would to a Credit Card Authorization System. An example of the conversion of a credit card billing request to a BTN validation record is described in more detail below.

1. Credit Card Authorization Request to Billing Telephone Number Validation Request

Credit Card Authorization Request Record

99m999999123456 2022269329Ebillittestregιstratιon 12345 Main Street apt 12

Any City CA950510789202226932930155919920002695

Billing Telephone Number Validation Request Record

99m999999999999202226932912345Maιn StreetCA 9505107892022269329

2. Billing Telephone Number Validation to a LIDB Request Record

If the Phone number passes a series of validation checks, it will then be checked against the LIDB database. In order to do that, the record must be translated in to a format specific for the LIDB process.

Billing Telephone Number Validation Request Record

99m999999123456202226932912345Main StreetCA 9505107892022269392

LIDB Request Record

DR1100333333330200021234561010914132401 ;;102022269329

3. LIDB Response Record to a BTN Validation Record

Once the information is received from LIDB, the record must be translated back into a format that the Phone Number Validation System can read so the process can continue with additional checks to the phone number.

LIDB Response Record

DR0210333333330200021234561010914132416;;20222693292019417998

Billing Telephone Number Validation Request Record

99m999999123456202226932912345Main StreetCA 95051078920222693292019417998

4. BTN Validation Response Record to a Credit Card Authorization Response Record

At the conclusion of the Phone Number Validation Process, the results must be sent back to the CM System so the results can be returned to the purchaser and updated in the CM System. The BTN Validation response must be converted to a format that the CM can interpret. The BTN Validation Response Record is translated to the Credit Card Authorization Response Record for this phase of the purchase.

Billing Telephone Number Validation Response Record

99m9999991234562022269329180201 N2Y5552269329YY

Credit Card Authorization Response Record

99m999999123456 2022269329201 N25552269329YY

Referring in particular to Figure 14 of the drawings, at the end of a bill cycle during which a plurality of transactions or billing events or transactions have been recorded by the CMS 58, the CMS 58 communicates a billing transaction file in a credit card bill event format to the facility 28 (see step 140 in Figure 14). Each event in the transaction file includes an indicator to indicate that the event is a phone billing transaction for inclusion in the telephone account 34. The module 30 of the facility 28 then receives the billing request file as shown at step 142, whereafter the request file is parsed, as shown at step 144, and the processor module 110 checks to see whether or not all the required information is present in the file (see step 146). If not, a code is appended to the record as show at step 148. If all the information is present in the file, the process then proceeds to step 150 where the credit card authorization to BTN validation steps 118-130, as described above, are executed. Once the validation procedure has been completed, the BTN billing response is formatted into a industry standard credit card billing response with a response code appended to the end of each record and, the records are then returned to the CMS 58 (see step 152).

At the same time, transactions or billing events which have been validated as billable and thus capable of being included in the relevant telephone account 34, are translated into an electronic message interface (EMI) format appropriate for the Telco with which the telephone account 34 is associated (see step 154). The EMI formatted file is then transferred to the Telco for billing as shown in step 156 whereafter the Telco call places each billing event on telephone account 34 associated with the subscriber line 96. Typically, the Telco returns any records that can not be billed to the telephone account 34 or that have already been billed and credited, or written off because of non payment to the facility 28 as shown at step 160. The records received by the facility 28 are in the EMI format and the facility 28 translates the record to a credit card return record including a reason code appended to the record, as shown at step 162, whereafter record is returned to the CMS 58 at the vendor 22.

An example of the billing event record conversion in which a credit card billing request is translated into a BTN billing request is set out below.

1. Credit Card Billing Request to a BTN Billing Request

Once the purchase event has been slotted for billing, it enters the billing stream for that bill cycle. In certain embodiments, daily bill cycle records are sent to the appropriate processors. As described above, the transaction validation and processing module 30 may receive the record in the same format required by a conventional credit card processing facility.

In certain embodiments, the first step in the bill cycle is to re-validate the billable status of the BTN. This is done by following the same steps in the BTN Validation process set out above. The first step is to convert the record to a BTN Validation event record.

Credit Card Billing Request Record

S749499M4N0000107252E100BP2623775174 0000 0004500 ABPAT*MOORE H2624444444

A2888 NW 87^th REGENCY CIRCLE D2623775174 A3CEADARBURG, Wl 53012-0505

Billing Telephone Number Validation Request Record

749499M4N0000107252E10020222693290004500888WI531020505B

2. Phone Bill Billing Record to Credit Card Billing Response Record

At the conclusion of the revalidation during the billing process, a different response record may be written to a file. That record is typically in a format according to the Credit Card Billing Response format.

Billing Telephone Number Billing Validation Response Record

749499M4N0000107252E1002623775174180201 N2NOOOOOOOOOONN0004500B

Credit Card Billing Response Record

S749499M4N0000107252E100BP2623775174201 N2N0000000Q00NN

3. BTN Billing Validation Record to a Phone Company Deposit Record

At the same time the Billing Response is returned, all accounts that were validated as positive may be formatted into a record that is acceptable at the Telephone Company for processing.

Billing Telephone Number Billing Validation Response Record

749499M4N0000107252E1002623775174180201 N2NOOOOOOOOOONN0004500B

Phone Company Deposit Record

42500101 1400000000007442000000000007364004500000000000000000000000000000000 0000000910200000000000000090300000002623775174000....000

4. Negative Billing Event Records to Credit Card Negative Event Records

These BTN Billing Records are deposited at a Telephone Company for processing on to the bill page. If a charge is unable to be placed on the bill page, the event must be converted in to the Credit Card Negative Billing Event format for processing. In addition, any other negative information, such as a credit of a charge or the write-off of bad debt, must be converted to the appropriate Credit Card formats for processing by the CM. Thus, if inclusion into the telephone account 34 fails for some reason, the transaction then gets charged to the financial instrument or credit card and an industry standard credit card record is created by the module 30.

The CMS 58 typically knows how to handle the negative event by the file name that contains the records and the response code within the returned records. The file name and response codes are in the industry standard credit card processing convention.

As mentioned above, the transaction validation and processing module 30 carries out a validation process on the telephone number associated with subscriber line 96 (see Figure 15) and periodically processes transactions directly into subscriber telephone accounts 34.

Referring in particular to Figure 15 of the drawings, reference numeral 200 generally indicates a more detailed schematic block diagram of an embodiment of the module 30. In the module 200, the line number extraction module 108 and the OBF exchange interface 112 are integrated into the processor module 110 which is in the form of a server.

The module 200 includes an application program interface (API) 214 which is connected to the vendor 22 or service provider (see also Figure 5) of goods and/or services which require validation of a subscriber account. The vendor 22, which could for example be an Internet Service Provider, may request the validation of the subscriber line 96 prior to concluding an electronic transaction with a subscriber via the subscriber line 96. It is, however, to be appreciated that the API 214 may be connected to a variety of different hosts or clients which require validation of a subscriber line 96 via which the vendor 22 may carry out transactions for goods and/or services.

The vendor 22 typically communicates a request to the module 200 and forwards the subscriber line number, determined by the ANI service, to the module 200 via its API 214. The module 200 then processes the information received from the vendor 22 and provides a validation status, e.g. a code indicating a valid billable number or a code indicating that the line number is not a valid billable number (unbillable or non-billable). In particular, a plurality of codes associated with various statuses of the subscriber line 96 are communicated to the vendor 22 as described in more detail below.

The module 200 includes hardware and software to implement the invention. In particular, the module 200 includes a comparator module 218, a threshold database 220, an OFFNET database 222, an ONNET database 224, a competitive local exchange carrier (CLEC) database 226, a 42 BLOCK database 228, a block and cancel database 230, an unbilled and/or unpaid bills database 232, line identification database (LIDB) short term cache 234, a validity check module 236, a regional account office (RAO) database 238, an operating company number (OCN) database 240, an ONNET database 242, an address verification database 244, customer account record exchange (CARE) results database 246, an ANI watch database 248, and an NPA (Numbering Plan Area) exchange database 250. It is to be appreciated that, in less sophisticated embodiments of the invention, all of the above databases need not be included. However, for enhanced accuracy, all of the above databases are preferably included. Further databases may also be included further to increase the reliability of the validation process.

In addition to any one or more of the above databases, in one embodiment the module 200 is in communication via a conventional communication channel with an offsite or, in some embodiments, on-site line identification database (LIDB) host 252. The LIDB host may include a line number portability (LNP) database. Typically, the LNP database may front end access to a plurality of industry standard LIDBs (e.g. 13 different LIDBs). The LNP database may however be a separate database. In certain embodiments, the line identification database host 252 is an on-site database which is built using line identification data from, for example, a plurality of telephone companies.

As described in more detail below, the module 200 communicates the subscriber line number to the LIDB host 252 which, in turn, communicates reference subscriber data in the form of industry standard LIDB codes back to the module 200 for processing. The module 200 then processes the LIDB codes to provide the vendor 22 with validation data relating to the subscriber line 96. Unlike conventional LIDB applications which use a LIDB to make decisions regarding destination subscriber lines or call completion decisions, e.g. decisions for calling cards, collect and third party toll services or the like, the module 200 is used to identify telephone numbers of originating subscriber lines.

Broadly, the module 200 includes a communication module formed by the application program interface (API) 214 which communicates with the communication module 64 (see Figure 5) of the vendor 22, a processor module 110 which includes the various databases 220 to 232 as well as the comparator module 218 and the validity check module 236, and an interrogation module 256 for interrogating the LIDB host 252. It is to be appreciated that the modules may be defined by one or more servers with associated databases. Further, in the example illustrated, the LIDB host 252 is shown as a single database but may comprise many different LIDB databases maintained by various LECs and, accordingly, may be located at various different geographic locations.

Referring in particular to Figures 16 to 19 of the drawings, various sections of a flow chart describing the method of operation of the module 200 are shown. As described above, the vendor 22 initiates a request to the module 200 to validate a transaction to be included in the account 34 associated with the subscriber line 96. As shown at step 260, the module 200 first checks to see if the BTN number is present in the request from the vendor 22 and, if no number is present, a return code 121 is generated and communicated to the vendor as shown at step 262. The code 121 indicates to the vendor 22 that the module 200 is unable to process the request. If, however, the number is present in the request from the vendor 22, the module 200 then checks if the line number captured (hereinafter also referred to as the ANI) by the ANI module 60, and the BTN entered on the form 66 (see Figure 8) match, as shown at step 264 (see also the comparator module 218 in Figure 15). If, however, the ANI and the BTN do not match, then the processor module 110 generates a code 120 (see step 66) to indicate that the caller and the owner of the line number are not the same person (e.g. the user enters his or her BTN in the form 66 and uses an electronic terminal connected to a different subscriber line and is thus calling from a different ANI) and the relevant modified code is then returned to the vendor 22.

If the ANI and the BTN do match, the processor module 110 interrogates the threshold database 220 (see step 268) to ascertain whether or not the line number has reached its threshold (e.g., a predefined client threshold parameter such as an account threshold). If the line number has reached its threshold, the processor module 110 then generates a code 60, as shown at step 270, which is then communicated to the vendor 22 to indicate that the line number may not be granted service. In other words, the subscriber account cannot be billed for the goods and/or services requested by the user from the vendor 22.

If the threshold has not been reached, the module 200 then interrogates its OFFNET database 22 (see step 271 ) to check if the industry standard NPA/NXX and operating company number (OCN) of the subscriber line 96 is present in the OFFNET database 22. The OFFNET database 22 includes NPA /NXX and OCN combinations of operating companies with which the proprietor or user of the module 200 does not have billing and collections agreements to bill into the Telco's bill page associated with the subscriber line 96. Accordingly, the facility 20 is unable to include a charge in the account associated with the subscriber line 96 on behalf of the vendor 22 for the transaction.

If the line number is in the OFFNET database 222, then the processor module 110 generates codes 130 to 133 (see step 272) and communicates these codes to the vendor 22. The codes 130 to 133 indicate that the NPA/NXX and OCN for the particular line number 96 are not billable and, accordingly, charges for goods and/or services requested by the user cannot be included in the monthly telephone account 34 by the module 200. As shown in Table 2 below, the codes 130 to 133 provide an indication to the vendor 22 why the subscriber line 96 is not billable or deliverable. If the subscriber line number is not included in the OFFNET database 222, a check is conducted to see whether or not the subscriber line number is included in the ONNET database 224. This check is however optional in the embodiment depicted in the drawings, but may be mandatory if the module 200 does not include the OFFNET database 222.

Thereafter, as shown in step 278, the processor module 110 checks to see if the line number is found in a known CLEC table in the CLEC database 226. CLEC numbers are those line numbers that are known to have ported to a CLEC and, accordingly, the proprietor of the module 200 is thus unable to route these line numbers to the correct billing entities. If the line number is found in the CLEC database 226, then the processor module 110 generates a code 140 (see step 276) which is communicated to the vendor 22. The code140 indicates that the BTN provided by the user is not billable for the CLEC and the module 200 can thus not charge the transaction to the subscriber account associated with the subscriber line 96.

If the line number is not found in the CLEC database 226, then the module 200 checks to see if the subscriber of the subscriber line 96 has requested a 4250 billing block as shown at step 278. In particular, the processor module 110 interrogates the 42 BLOCK database 228 and, if the number is located in the database 228, which indicates that monthly recurring charges (4250) charges are prevented from being billed to that line number, the processor module 110 generates a code 150 (see step 280) which is communicated to the vendor 22 to indicate that billing to the particular subscriber line 96 has been blocked.

If, however, the subscriber line 96 has not been blocked, the module 200 then checks at step 282 if the line number is located in the block and cancel database 230 and, if so, the processor module 110 generates codes 160 and 161 which are then communicated to the vendor as shown at step 284. The block and cancel database 230 includes requests from owners of subscriber lines, agencies, businesses, or the like that a service be canceled or blocked from further billing. Thereafter, the module 200 interrogates the unbilled and/or unpaid bills database 232, as shown at step 286, to check if there is a history of any unpaid bills and/or unbillable bills associated with the subscriber line 96. Unbillable bills relate to those subscriber line numbers where previous attempts have been made to bill charges to the subscriber account associated with the line number, and which have been returned as unbillable. If the processor module 110 locates the line number in the unbillable and/or unpaid bills database 232 then, as shown at step 288, a code 170 is generated and communicated to the vendor 22 to indicate that the line number was previously found to be unbillable and is still considered to be unbillable.

The processing described above conducts a preliminary investigation into the subscriber line number or ANI/BTN to provide an initial indication of whether or not the ANI/BTN corresponds with a billable subscriber line. Once the initial investigation has been conducted, the module 200 then uses the ANI to obtain reference subscriber line data in the form of LIDB codes from one or more industry standard databases in the form of the LIDB host or database 252. Examples of the LIDB codes used in the module 200 are shown in Table 3 below.

As shown at step 290, if the ANI is not found in the LIDB database 252, the module 200 cannot provide any validation data to the vendor 22 on this subscriber line and an appropriate code is then communicated to the vendor 22 as shown at block 292.

Once the LIDB database or host 252 has been interrogated, it returns industry standard LIDB codes and line number portability (LNP) data to the module 200 as shown in step 294 (see Figure 18). The LIDB codes are then mapped or translated by the processor module 110 into modified validation codes (see Table 3) which provide relevant validation information to the vendor 22. As can be seen from Table 3, the same modified validation code can be generated from a plurality of different LIDB codes. Once the LIDB information codes have been returned to the processor module 110, the LIDB codes, including OCN and RAO response codes, are fed into the validity check module 236 (see Figure 15) as shown at step 96.

As mentioned above, the LIDB host 252 may also provide LNP data to the module 200. The LNP data is used to identify subscriber line numbers that have ported to a CLEC. If a subscriber line has been ported to a CLEC, the billing ONNET status of the CLEC is verified in the CLEC database 226. The LNP identifies the facilities based CLECs which are CLECs that have been assigned all the line numbers for an NPA/NXX in a specific geographic territory. This type of CLEC would be in control of the cable, dial tone and billing envelope for that number. Typically, the LNP cannot be used to identify CLEC sellers which have resold the subscriber line under their brand, but still lease the cable and tone from an incumbent local exchange carrier (ILEC). Accordinglythe facility 28 may be unable to process transaction data onto a bill page or telephone account 34 of the CLEC reseller bill page. In order to identify reseller CLECs, the module 200 compares RAO and OCN information, returned from the LIDB host 252, to data in the ONNET database 224. The OCN is the local Telco that owns the subscriber line number and the RAO is the office of the Telco that is responsible from a billing standpoint for the subscriber line number.

If the validity check module 236 determines that the response codes are invalid, the module 200 generates modified codes 180 to 999 (see step 298 and Table 2) which are communicated to the requestor or vendor 22 to indicate that the mapping of the LIDB codes to the modified codes concluded that the line is an unbillable subscriber line.

If the validity check module 236 confirms the validity of the LIDB codes and, in the event of the line number being a billable line number, the processor module 110 then checks the RAO database 238 to ascertain whether or not the RAO is billable, as shown at step 300. If the RAO is not billable, then the processor module 110 generates and communicates a return code 143 (see step 302) to indicate to the vendor 22 that the line number belongs to a CLEC which is not billable by the module 200.

In a similar fashion, at step 304 the processor module 110 checks to see if the OCN returned from the LIDB host 252 corresponds with a known CLEC or if the OCN corresponds with an OFFNET OCN and is therefore also unbillable. If the line number corresponds to an OCN that is not billable, a return code 142 is generated by the processor module 110 and communicated to the vendor 22 (see step 306).

If the subscriber line number has passed the RAO and OCN checks and, accordingly, it appears that the number is billable, the processor module 110 then checks to see if a new NPA /NXX and OCN combination for this line number is guidable to the correct local Telco for billing (see step 308). If the line number is not guidable, then the module 200 generates a code 141 at step 310 which is communicated to the vendor 22 to indicate that, even though the line number is billable, the facility 28 is unable to guide the billing information to the new Telco for billing. Accordingly, the telephone number is in fact non-billable insofar as the facility 28 is concerned and a decline status is therefore communicated to the vendor 22.

The abovementioned steps are carried out to ascertain whether or not the subscriber line 96 can be billed for the goods and/or services requested. However, to enhance the accuracy or reliability of the module 200, further checks or verification are conducted as described below.

In the event that the subscriber line number has passed or complied with the abovementioned checks, and has thus not yet been rejected, the module 200 performs address verification procedures at step 312. The module 200 then interrogates an address verification database 244 to compare the address or location data (e.g. a ZIP code) supplied by the user via the form 66 (see Figure 8) with reference address data as shown at step 312. If, however, the address supplied by the user does not match with the address in the verification database 244 or, the addresses are not within a predefined range or area, the processor module 110, as shown at step 314, generates codes 10 to 39 which are then communicated to the vendor 22 to indicate the level of likelihood that the caller (ANI) and the account owner are the same person.

During the address verification step 312, the module 200 interrogates a customer account record exchange (CARE) database (which can be an on-site database which is regularly updated), to provide enhanced reliability. In particular, the CARE database or information site is typically one or more industry standard offsite databases which allow consumers to select or change their long distance service provider. Local Telcos forward specific customer information to the LEC associated with the subscriber. The information communicated typically includes a new phone number, billing address, installation date, the person or organization responsible for the account, or the like.

As shown at step 316, the module 200 interrogates the CARE database or information site and CARE data is then loaded into CLEC and new line databases to perform certain fraud and billing checks. The CARE information investigation occurs after a successful validation event. Once the module 200 has validated the subscriber line 96, the subscriber line number data is sent to a CARE database provider hosting the CARE database 246 to obtain the BNA and age of the account. The information is typically returned within 48 hours and then processed. Care records that are returned without BNA and CLEC ACCOUNT codes are inserted into the CLEC database 226 for future reference. Accordingly, if the BTN is presented again at a later date, it will fail the CLEC check step (see step 274 in Figure 17).

The ANI watch database 248, which includes historical and adjusted information, is used by the module 200 to determine if the account has previously been adjusted (see step 316). Typically, this step includes ascertaining previous requests by the subscriber for credit, obtaining data on any written off amounts for charges that were billed to a bill page, or the like.

If adjustments have previously been made to the account associated with the subscriber line 96, the processor module 110 generates codes 1 to 5 (see step 318) to indicate to the vendor 22 that the adjustments have been made. If no adjustments have been made, the processor module 110 checks to see whether or not the line number has a business line indicator as shown at step 320. If the business line indicator is active, the module 200 generates a code 70 (see step 322) which is communicated to the vendor 22 to advise that the line is a business line. Thereafter, as shown in step 324, the processor module 110 checks to see if the subscriber line number has been in service for less than about 90 days and, if so, a return code 80 (see step 326) is generated to advise the vendor 22 who may then selectively decide whether or not to conclude the transaction. A database of new numbers may be updated with the new number.

Thereafter, the module 200 interrogates the ANI watch database 248 (see step 328) to ascertain whether or not the area code of the line number has been changed or is scheduled to change. This interrogation is typically for billing purposes only and is not used to decide upon the validity of the request. In this step, the vendor 22 requesting the validation typically updates the billing file with the new area code number, and the processor module 110 generates a code 110 (see step 330) to advise the vendor 22 of the scheduled change to the area code.

Once the line number has passed all the aforementioned checks, the module 200 then concludes that the subscriber line 96 obtained using ANI techniques is in fact a billable line and, accordingly, the transaction may be charged directly to the account of the subscriber. Accordingly, the module 200 then generates a code 000 (see step 334) which is communicated to the vendor 22. The code 000 defines an approved status following both a billable line number inquiry as well as several fraud checks which are carried out by the fraud control module 332. If the line number has passed the abovementioned checks and the return code 000 is generated, the process terminates at block step 336. Thus, step 336 defines the end of the process during which the various checks have been conducted on the subscriber line 96 to assess whether or not it is a billable subscriber line that charges may be billed to. Step 338 defines the last step to which the process jumps when, at any point during the abovementioned process, the line number is found not to be billable (e.g., a creditworthy decision was requested by the vendor 22) and the inquiry is accordingly terminated and the relevant code is communicated to the vendor 22.

The abovementioned steps are typically executed in real time. However, information sources that do not allow checks on the line number in real time may be are carried out subsequently on the line number. Typically, once the real time evaluation is carried out and the return code 000 is communicated to the vendor, and the vendor 22 decide to proceed with the transaction, transaction data is then periodically returned to the module 200 by the vendor 22 for a pre-billing validation check or actual billing. During actual billing the module 200 accesses an account folder of the subscriber line at the Telco 26 and inserts the charges due to the vendor 22 into the telephone account 34. As shown at step 340, line numbers are sent to the CARE database 246 to determine if the BNA is available at the local Telco 26. If the folder or telephone account 34 is not available, the local Telco 26 typically sends the BNA and codes as to why the number is unavailable to the facility 28. If the BNA is found in the CARE database 246, the processor module 110 then checks to see whether or not the account was created within the last 90 days as shown at step 342. If the account was not created within the last 90 days, then the business indicator is checked as shown at step 344 and the process ends as previously shown at step 346. If, however, the number was found in the CARE database 246, the account was created within the last 90 days, or has an active business indicator then the module 200 generates the appropriate codes which are communicated to vendor 22 and the process terminates as shown at step 348.

The above process has been described in terms of modified codes set out in Table 2 but, it is to be appreciated, that the mapping or translation of the LIDB codes may produce any other defined set of corresponding codes so long as the codes are mapped onto, or generated in response to, any one or more of the industry standard LIDB codes.

A summary of the codes generated by the module 200 during execution of the validation process is provided in Table 1 below.

Table 1

See step 290 If # not found in Unbillable, then routed to LIDB for info.

The next steps provide additional information about the # for the requestor e.g. to decide if and how much credit to extend for services. They also provide additional billing information.

Table 2 below provides the various actions which are executed in response to a modified validity code. The table provides a description and explanation of each code. Return codes 001 to 969 relate to failure codes which are generated by the module 200 prior to investigation of the LIDB host 252. Return codes 180 to 451 are generated during the LIDB code checks. In the event of the subscriber line 96 failing the checks carried out on it, the module 200 provides optional use of a credit card and, accordingly, Table 2 sets out codes which the module 200 generates in response to executing a standard credit card enquiry for a particular transaction. If the module 200, which is typically defined by a server and associated databases, is down, codes 994 to 999 are generated and communicated to the vendor.

Table 2

Validation & BNA Reply Codes

FRAUD CONTROL CODES (performed after billable check)

As mentioned above, the module 200 translates the LIDB codes into modified verification codes as shown in Table 2. These modified validity codes are then mapped or translated. Table 3 below provides a list of the modified validity codes which are generated following the mapping carried out by the processor module 110 to translate LIDB codes to the modified verification codes set out in Table 1.

Table 3

LIDB/LNP SOURCE TRANSLATIONS for ISP:

In the embodiment of the invention depicted in the drawings, regardless of the type of service provider or the type of validation request, all clients or vendors 22 typically need a profile so that the process or method carried out by the module 200 knows how to treat the request. The client or vendor profile is set up in a database which includes the indicators that are set for the type and tests for each request which will be subsequently received from the vendor.

Note: Some tests are required for certain validation types. In certain embodiments, the client or vendor profile is used to determine which validation request type to convert from or to, which validation checks should be performed on the ANI/BTN for the particular purchase event, which checks are to be performed for the pre-billing validation event at the time of billing, and the billing record conversion specifics for that client or vendor. Thus, the facility 28 may customize is validation procedures to suit a specific client or vendor.

For the both the validation events, the client profile check is typically performed in facility 28 prior to carrying out the validity checks. For example, the customer profile check may be included in step 98 (see Figure 13) and step 142 (see Figure 14). The customer profile includes client specific information which may determine the nature and extent of the validation process. Accordingly, the profile may be checked as soon as the record is received from a registration module or the customer management system 58. In use, a profile table is queried to identify the validation checks to be performed by the module 30 and the checks may differ between an initial purchase event or transaction and an associated subsequent billing event at the end of a bill cycle. These checks may, dependent on the client profile, include checking if the ANI is the same as the BTN, if the subscriber line is listed in OFFNET database 222, in the UNBILLS database 232, in the Blocking databases 228,230, in the CLEC database 226, in the LIDB database 252, in the address verification database 244, or in databases including data on previous credits, new lines, business lines area codes, area code changes, or the like.

Additionally, the client profile is typically checked to see which billing record should be written for inclusion on the phone bill for that particular purchase. This may occur as the first part of step 218 in Figure 15 and step 260 in Figure 17.

The client profile can also be used to determine the type of billing record to convert from and the type to convert to for inclusion the telephone account 34 for the purchase or transaction. For example, the types of billing records may include a 425001 record for a monthly recurring charge; 010101 , 010105, 010102, 010116 type records for detailed, usage-based events; and 415001 , 410101 , 410105, 410102, 410116 records for the credit records.

An example of software tables for implementing the steps in the method set out in the flow diagrams shown in Figures 17 to 19 are shown below.

The first table shows the steps in the BTN test descriptions process. Typically, a set of core tests is run for each client. Additionally, clients may have some configuration options to identify the tests that best fit their program.

ON/OFFNET Family Tables (Billing Coverage)

The OFFNET table family contains OCN & NPA_NXX combinations where billing is not approved. If found, the BTN does not continue on the validation path.

The ONNET table determines if an NPA_NXX & OCN combination can be found among the billable combinations. In this case a match, allows the BTN to move further on the validation path. A no match will return a failure.

The CLEC table consists of CLECs that the proprietor, or user of the module 200, does not have billing contracts with. This table is specific to the line number. Sources dictate the fields that will be present for the record. A match here is considered a fail and does not continue.

The 4250 Block table consists of specific line numbers that cannot be billed for 4250-01 record types. A match in this table stops the validation movement.

BILL CONTROL Family Tables

The Unbills or unbillable table holds all the BTNs that have been sent to a subscribers bill page but could not be placed on the bill page for various reasons. A match here halts the validation sequence for the subject BTN. Block and cancel tables identify BTNs that have requested a permanent or a Client specific block for billing. A match sends a failed response.

Validation Cache is a table that holds responses in order not to process duplicates (e.g., Submit pressed 10 times). A match here will return the code stored from a previous request.

LIDB Family Tables

LIDB is a third party that supplies information to the phone line number level. The module 30 typically tests and stores as many relevant fields as can be requested in a transaction.

LIDB Codes Table

Fields Data Type Key

The LIDB Validity Table translates the LIDB code into a billable or non- billable response according to predefined business rules. A fail here will halt the validation for the request.

The State specific table is a conversion from a true OCN to a known State Specific OCN that is billable. A match here will trigger the conversion, the BTN continues in the validation process.

The transaction log is the history of each transaction request and response that is processed through the validation system.

The TPM indicates that an NPA is in the permissive dialing period. A match here appends the record with the updated number for a record update.

See Exhibit A

VALIDATION TABLE MAINTENANCE

TABLE LOAD

See Exhibit B for Billing rejects and Unbills codes that are loaded into tables.

TABLE PURGE

^* See Exhibit C OCN Moratorium schedule.

Exhibit A

Example Tables

Zip to NPA_NXX source allows for best 3 zips for an NPA_NXX combination. Tests show a 70% match rate. This rate has been improved by matching to position 1-3 of the Zip. The low match rate combined with the fact that a BTN is not a portable instrument, this test is not recommended for BTN validation.

The following tests are optionally carried out in other embodiments of the invention.

The ANI Watch has BTNs that have been given an adjustment for charges by the Client, proprietor or user of the module 200 or the Telco. This is to help the client determine the credit score for the BTN.

Exhibit B

Loaded Reject and Unbill Codes

Exhibit C

OCN PURGE SCHDEULE

Unlike conventional use of the LIDB database that uses the LIDB data to obtain information on a destination/termination or recipient location or subscriber unit, the module 200, in accordance with the invention, uses the industry standard LIDB database to obtain relevant information on the initiating subscriber line 96. The subscriber line reference data obtained from the LIDB database is then processed to generate modified validity codes, which provide a vendor with data to facilitate deciding whether or not a transaction should be processed. The LIDB/LNP database is queried as if a collect call event is occurring and a call is thus mimicked. The processing of the transaction typically involves communicating the relevant transaction data to a folder of the subscriber's account with a relevant Telco. The method of, and module 200 for, validating the billing account associated with the subscriber line allows, for example, a subscriber line to be used to validate and conclude a transaction instead of using a conventional payment techniques such as a credit card, debit card, bank account details or the like.

A current industry-wide problem is the lack of ability of a service provider to identify when a line subscriber has switched his service to a CLEC since the service provider may not have an existing billing arrangement with such a CLEC and may also not have a source for the BNA to allow for a direct billing solution. LNP databases were originally established for the purpose of directing call routing activities among facilities-based carriers and most telephone numbers ported to a CLEC do not involve a facility change (the CLEC may be simply reselling the incumbent LEC's facilities). This means that, for billing decision purposes, LNP queries usually provide an incorrect response.

The LNP queries are enhanced by analyzing and interpreting other field elements included within the query response. Specifically, certain values or, in some cases, the absence of certain values, in the Operating Company Number ("OCN") and/or the Regional Accounting Office ("RAO") fields, allows further accuracy in the validation response. While the definitions of the OCN and RAO field elements can be obtained from industry sources, their interpreted use in the validation process is unique to the present invention. Use of these additional data elements can improve the reliability of the validation event.

LNP results may be supplemented with CARE queries in LEC regions where LNP results are inadequate and CARE costs are not otherwise prohibitive based on the retail price of the underlying service. CARE provides a reliable result on CLEC-ported numbers since its basic purpose is to provide subscriber account information (such as billing name and address). Once a number is ported to a CLEC, the incumbent LEC no longer has subscriber responsibility and will, therefore, return an "unavailable" response, even if the LEC's dial-tone facility is still being utilized. This negative response is then used to generate a "deny" status on the subscriber based on the current lack of CLEC billing support.

The validation process is also supplemented through the use of internal databases built from information gathered throughout the billing and collection process.

It is important to appreciate that all of the steps in the method executed by the module 200 need not be executed in real time. Typically, after the approval code 000 has been generated by the module 200 at step 334 the module 200 terminates its pre-validation check routine as shown at step 336. At this point the module 200 may merely provide pre-validation data or verification data to indicate to the vendor 22 if the subscriber line 96 is billable. Thus the module 200 may, in a first interaction with the vendor 22 provide pre-validation data, and in a second interaction process billing information. During the processing of billing information the validation process may once again be executed. In certain embodiments, the first interaction may be in the form of a registration process during which the validation procedure is carried out to register a subscriber line 96. The vendor 22 may then conduct numerous transactions with subscriber and subsequent validation checks on the subscriber line may then only be carried out on a periodic basis as described above.

After the validation code has been sent to the vendor 22, and the pre- validation procedure has been complete, the module 200 then carries out the fraud checks on a non-real time basis (usually during the next 48 to 72 hours) as shown in steps 340 to 344. The information obtained during the fraud control checks, if necessary, is used to update the various databases. In particular, after a BTN has been successfully validated but before a billing event takes place, the CARE investigation steps 340 to 344 are executed. The module 200 is typically arranged to interrogate offsite CARE databases and the results of the enquiry are stored in the CARE database 246. Checks on the data received from the CARE databases are then performed whereafter one or more of the other databases may be updated with the results. For example, the CARE database 246 may be updated, new within 90 days information, business indicator information, or the like. CARE codes 2618 and 2619 typically indicate that the BNA is not available and that the LEC no longer owns the account.

The updating of the databases following the CARE investigation allows enhanced future checks by the module 200 in a subsequent pre-validation procedure or subsequent registration event validation event. The updated information may be provided to the vendor 22. However, if the BTN information returned from the CARE database 246 does not meet predefined criteria, the other databases of the module 200 are not updated.

When a purchase validation event or billing event is declined, fails, unbillable or is negative event for any reason, the purchaser is preferably apprised. The manner in which the failure is treated depends upon the point in time and the reason the transaction validation or billing event fails.

In certain embodiments, a business rule table drives the treatment method and course based on when the failed event occurred during the validation process and the reason for the failure. With a purchase validation event, the option may be provided to interact with the purchaser at the time of requesting the purchase. For example, the option to change failed information for a revalidation or to change to another payment option may be provided. An example of customer failure may be as follows:

At the time of a pre-billing validation event or a failed billing event, the interaction with the purchaser will be after the fact and is typically in a screen pop at the next sign-on and in email form. In certain embodiments, there is a preset length of time to correct the failed information for a revalidation or change to a new payment method.

Once the treatment period passes, the account access is typically denied and more traditional ways of saving, winning back, and reactivation or collections activities would take place.

In the embodiment described above, information on the subscriber line 96 is forwarded by the service provider or vendor 22 to the module 200 for validation. However, in other embodiments of the invention, the consumer or user may call the module 200 directly, as shown by line 350 in Figure 1 , and the ANI may then be obtained by the module 200 directly from the terminal 24 and not indirectly from the vendor 22. Further subscriber line data, e.g. BTN, address of the user and so on, may then also be obtained directly from the user. For example, the user may have appropriate software installed on his/her PC which allows the user to dial into the module 200 in an automated fashion should he/she wish to charge any requested goods or services to his/her subscriber account. The module 200 would then validate the subscriber line 96 using the method describer above. The module 200 then typically communicates a validation code (e.g. corresponding to approval or non-approval) to the vendor 22 as shown by line 352. The vendor 22 would then conclude the transaction with the user if the subscriber line has been validated.

In the first iteration of the validation process in which a validation request is received from the vendor 22, the ANI of the subscriber line 96 is captured to identify the subscriber line to which the terminal 24 is connected so that the validation process can be executed and the transaction or purchase can be approved and the billing process can be effected. It is to be appreciated however that the validation process and further prosecution of the transaction may take place based on the BTN which the user enters but that the capturing of the ANI may reduce the likelihood of fraud. Thus, if the ANI is captured, it may be done during an initial enquiry, purchase event, or at any other time during the process.

In other embodiments of the invention, in addition to or instead of capturing the ANI, the system 20 may request a user to enter the unique number associated with every phone billing account that Telcos currently issue. These additional digits are typically found at the end of the account number on a conventional telephone bill. These digits, sometimes called customer codes, identify the account associated with that particular assignment of the phone number. These codes provide a way to avoid capturing the ANI because typically only the account holder has access to this number thereby reducing the chance of fraud. Thus, the display screen 86 of Figure 11 optionally includes the field 364 in which a user can enter the customer codes. An appropriate database would then be interrogated to validate the subscriber line. In one embodiment of the invention, the interrogation is included in the LIDB step, and includes details on the account to the customer code level.

The customer codes may thus eliminate the need to capture the ANI by the module 60 (see Figure 5) and, customer code data may be compared by the comparator module 218 (see Figure 15) and as shown in step 264 in Figure 17. As described above, the display screen 86 then includes the field 264 to accommodate this facility. Likewise, if the phone number is not confirmed, then the input screen would be provided with the customer code field.

When the customer code is used to validate the subscriber line 96, a step to interrogate the information is included in which additional information is sent to the LIDB database 252 (see Figure 15) in step 124 of Figure 13, and step 290 in Figure 17. Additionally, steps relating to the return of LIDB data are updated to include the results of the interrogation of this piece of information.

The facility 28 may function as a type of clearing house. In particular, the facility 28 may be responsible or accountable for payment of the goods or services for each transaction to the service provider or vendor 22 and, in turn, receive payment from the Telco. As mentioned above, the module 200 updates the telephone bill or account 34 of the subscriber in an automated fashion (see line) and the bill 356 that the user receives (see Figure 1) includes the charges for the goods and/or services provided by the vendor 22. The user pays the Telco 26 (see line 358), the Telco 26 pays the facility 28 (see line 360), and the facility 28 pays the vendor 22 (see line 362). It is important to appreciate that these payments need not take place at the same time. Typically, the payments between the Telco 26 and the facility 28, and the facility 28 and vendor 22, take place periodically in a batch fashion.

In certain embodiments, the module 200 may define an exemplary subscriber line validation system, in accordance with a further aspect of the invention, for validating the subscriber line 96 of a subscriber. In one exemplary embodiment, the subscriber line 96 is a telephone line or the like which a consumer or business using the electronic terminal 24 obtains from a telephone company (Telco) 26 or a local exchange carrier (LEC). As described above, in one embodiment the module 200, that defines the subscriber line validation system, uses line data in the exemplary form of an automatic number identification (ANI) service to obtain the telephone line number of the subscriber line 96 thereby to validate the subscriber line 96 when the subscriber line 96 initiates a communication or connection. In one exemplary embodiment, the line number obtained from the ANI service is used to investigate various databases to obtain, for example, an indication of the credit worthiness of the subscriber account associated with the subscriber line 96, as described above. It is however to be appreciated that any electronic apparatus, e.g. a personal computer, PDA, cellular telephone, or the like may be used to initiate the communication.

In one exemplary embodiment, when the module 200 defines the subscriber line identification system, it may be connected to a plurality of vendors which conduct transactions with users via line termination equipment such as a telephone, a personal computer or the like. Such vendors, when conducting transactions, may preferably charge a user for their services by adding such charges to a telephone account of the user rather than charging the goods and/or services to a credit card, debit card, or the like. Accordingly, the validation of the subscriber line 96, and the subscriber account associated with the subscriber line 96, may be of benefit to the vendor 22 prior to completing a transaction. The validation may include determining whether or not the subscriber line 96, via which the communication is made to the vendor, is a billable line and, accordingly, the subscriber account associated with the subscriber line 96 may thus be billed for the transaction.

Figure 20 shows a diagrammatic representation of machine in the exemplary form of a computer system 600 within which a set of instructions, for causing the machine to perform any one of the methodologies discussed above, may be executed.

The computer system 600 includes a processor 602, a main memory 604 and a static memory 606, which communicate with each other via a bus 608. The computer system 600 may further include a video display unit 610 (e.g., a liquid crystal display (LCD) or a cathode ray tube (CRT)). The computer system 600 also includes an alphanumeric input device 612 (e.g., a keyboard), a cursor control device 614 (e.g., a mouse), a disk drive unit 616, a signal generation device 618 (e.g., a speaker) and a network interface device 620. The disk drive unit 616 includes a machine-readable medium 622 on which is stored a set of instructions (software) 624 embodying any one, or all, of the methodologies or functions described herein. The software 624 is also shown to reside, completely or at least partially, within the main memory 604 and/or within the processor 602. The software 624 may further be transmitted or received via the network interface device 620. For the purposes of this specification, the term "machine-readable medium" shall be taken to include any medium that is capable of storing, encoding or carrying a sequence of instructions for execution by the machine and that cause the machine to perform any one of the methodologies of the present invention. The term "machine- readable medium" shall accordingly be taken to included, but not be limited to, solid-state memories, optical and magnetic disks, and carrier wave signals.

Thus, a method and system for processing a transaction and validating a subscriber line have been described. Although the present invention has been described with reference to specific exemplary embodiments, it will be evident that various modifications and changes may be made to these embodiments without departing from the broader spirit and scope of the invention. Accordingly, the specification and drawings are to be regarded in an illustrative rather than a restrictive sense.

Claims

CLAIMS:What we claim is:

1. A method of processing payment for a transaction, the method including: providing a user with an option, via an electronic terminal, to select payment for the transaction from an account associated with a communication line to which the electronic terminal is connected; receiving a user request entered into the terminal to process payment from the account; investigating data associated with the communication line; and selectively approving the transaction dependent upon an outcome of the investigation.

2. A method as claimed in Claim 1 , in which the communication line is a subscriber line and the account is a telephone account associated with the subscriber line.

3. A method as claimed in Claim 2, which includes identifying a telephone number of the subscriber line using automatic number identification (ANI) techniques.

4. A method as claimed in Claim 3, which includes combining the telephone number and transaction data to form a financial instrument record.

5. A method as claimed in Claim 4, in which the financial instrument record is an industry standard credit card record.

6. A method as claimed in Claim 3, in which investigating data associated with the communication line includes performing a validation process in which data associated with the telephone number is investigated.

7. A method as claimed in Claim 6, which includes obtaining a user entered telephone number from the electronic terminal and comparing the user entered telephone number with the telephone number obtained using ANI techniques.

8. A method as claimed in Claim 6, in which the validation process includes retrieving information form a line identification database (LIDB).

9. A method as claimed in Claim 6, which includes: communicating a validating message on approval of the transaction if the validation process validates the subscriber line; and routing processing of the transaction to a financial instrument gateway in the event of the validation process not validating the subscriber line.

10. A method of modifying a financial instrument record, the method including: receiving transaction data entered into an electronic terminal connected via a communication line to a communication network; obtaining a unique identifier associated with the communication line; and combining the unique identifier and the transaction data to form a financial instrument record.

11. A method as claimed in Claim 10, in which the financial instrument record is selected from the group including a credit card record and a debit card record.

12. A method as claimed in Claim 11 , in which the financial instrument record is receivable by a Customer Management System.

13. A method as claimed in Claim 12, in which the communication line is a subscriber line and the unique identifier is a telephone number associated with the subscriber line.

14. A method as claimed in Claim 13, in which the telephone number replaces a financial instrument number in the financial instrument record.

15. A method of validating a transaction conducted using an electronic terminal connected via a communication line to an electronic network, the method including: receiving a financial instrument record associated with the transaction; extracting a unique identifier from the financial instrument record, the unique identifier being associated with the communication line; and interrogating at least one database based on the unique identifier to obtain data associated with the communication line and selectively generating a validation status.

16. A method as claimed in Claim 15, in which the unique identifier is a telephone number of a subscriber line and processor module retrieves information from a line identification database (LIDB).

17. A method as claimed in Claim 16, in which charges for the transaction are included in an account associated with the subscriber line.

18. A method as claimed in Claim 16, which communicates a validating message on approval the transaction if the subscriber line is validated, and routes processing of the transaction to a financial card gateway in the event of the subscriber line is not validated.

19. A transaction processing system for processing a transaction between a vendor and an electronic terminal connected via a communication line to a communication network, the system including: an application interface for providing a user, via the electronic terminal, with an option to select payment for the transaction from an account associated with the communication line, and receiving a user request entered into the terminal to process payment from the account; and a modification module connected to the application interface, the modification module generating a record which includes a unique identifier associated with the communication line and communicating the record to a validation module which validates the transaction based on data associated with the unique identifier.

20. A system as claimed in Claim 19, in which payment is routed to financial card gateway if the validation module invalidates the transaction.

21. A system as claimed in Claim 19, in which the communication line is a subscriber line and the unique identifier is a telephone number associated with the subscriber line.

22. A system as claimed in Claim 21 , which includes an automatic line identification (ANI) module automatically to identify the telephone number.

23. A system as claimed in Claim 22, in which the validation module includes: a telephone number extraction module for extracting a telephone number from the record, the telephone number defining the unique identifier; and a processor module which interrogates at least one reference data base to obtain data associated with the telephone number and, in response thereto, generates a validation status.

24. A system as claimed in Claim 22, in which the processor module interrogates a line identification database (LIDB).

25. A system as claimed in Claim 22, in which the processor module validates the transaction if charges can be included in the account associated with the subscriber line, and invalidates the transaction if the charges cannot be included in the account.

26. A system as claimed in Claim 23, which includes an exchange interface for interfacing the validation module to an accounting facility of a telecommunications company at which the account is held thereby automatically to include the charges for the transaction in the account.

27. A system as claimed in Claim 19, in which the record is an industry standard financial instrument record.

28. A system as claimed in Claim 27, in which the record is selected from the group including a credit card record and a debit card record.

29. A transaction processor interface for processing payment of a transaction, the interface including: an application interface for providing a user with an option, via an electronic terminal, to select payment for the transaction from an account associated with a communication line to which the electronic terminal is connected, and for receiving a user request entered into the electronic terminal to process payment from the account; and a modification module for creating a financial instrument record which includes a unique identifier associated with the communication line.

30. A transaction processor interface as claimed in Claim 29, in which the communication line is a subscriber line and the account is a telephone account associated with the subscriber line.

31. A transaction processor interface as claimed in Claim 30, which includes an automatic number identification (ANI) module to obtain a unique identifier in the form of a telephone number of the subscriber line.

32. A transaction processor interface as claimed in Claim 29, which includes a communications module for communicating the financial instrument record to a validation module for validating the transaction based on data associated with the unique identifier.

33. A transaction processing interface as claimed in Claim 29, in which the financial instrument record is selected from the group including a credit card record and a debit card record.

34. A transaction validation module for validating a transaction conducted using an electronic terminal connected via a communication line to an electronic network, the module including: an extraction module for extracting a unique identifier from a financial instrument record associated with a transaction, the unique identifier being associated with the communication line ; and a processor module for interrogating at least one database based on the unique identifier to obtain data associated with the communication line and selectively generating a validation status.

35. A transaction validation module as claimed in Claim 34, in which the unique identifier is a telephone number and the processor module retrieves the data form a line identification database (LIDB).

36. A transaction validation module as claimed in Claim 35, in which charges for the transaction are included in an account associated with the communication line.

37. A transaction validation module as claimed in Claim 34, which communicates a validating message on approval the transaction if the communication line is validated, and routes processing of the transaction to a financial card gateway if the communication line is not validated.

38. A computer program product including a medium readable by a processor, the medium carrying instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: provide a user with an option, via an electronic terminal, to select payment for a transaction from an account associated with a communication line to which the electronic terminal is connected; receive a user request entered into the terminal to process payment from the account; investigate data associated with the communication line; and selectively approve the transaction dependent upon an outcome of the investigation.

39. A product as claimed in Claim 38, in which the communication line is a subscriber line and the account is a telephone account associated with the subscriber line.

40. A product as claimed in Claim 39, which includes identifying a telephone number of the subscriber line using automatic number identification (ANI) techniques.

41. A product as claimed in Claim 39, which includes combining the telephone number and transaction data to form a financial instrument record.

42. A computer program product including a medium readable by a processor, the medium carrying instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive transaction data entered into an electronic terminal connected via a communication line to a communication network; obtain a unique identifier associated with the communication line; and combine the unique identifier and the transaction data to form a financial instrument record.

43. A product as claimed in Claim 42, in which the financial instrument record is selected from the group including a credit card record and a debit card record.

44. A product as claimed in Claim 42, in which the financial instrument record is receivable by an Internet-based Customer Management System.

45. A computer program product including a medium readable by a processor, the medium carrying instructions which, when executed by the processor, cause the processor to: receive a financial instrument record associated with a transaction conducted using an electronic terminal connected via a subscriber line connected to a communication network; extract a unique identifier from the financial instrument record, the unique identifier being associated with the communication line; and interrogate at least one database based on the unique identifier to obtain data associated with the unique identifier and selectively generate a validation status.

46. A product as claimed in Claim 45, in which the unique identifier is a telephone number and the processor retrieves information form a line identification database (LIDB).

47. A method as claimed in Claim 45, in which charges for the transaction are included in an account associated with the communication line.

48. A method of providing validation data associated with a subscriber line of a telecommunication network, the method including: obtaining line data of the subscriber line, the line data being suitable for interrogating a line identification database (LIDB); interrogating the LIDB with the line data to obtain reference subscriber data associated with the line data; and processing the reference subscriber data to obtain validation data associated with the subscriber line.

49. The method of claim 48, wherein the LIDB is a conventional LIDB used by a service provider.

50. The method of claim 49, which includes: analyzing the reference subscriber data to determine if the line data is associated with a billing telephone number (BTN); and generating one of an approval and a decline status in response to the analysis.

51 The method of claim 48, wherein the line data is an automatic number identification (ANI).

52. The method of claim 51 , which includes interrogating the LIDB with the ANI to obtain the reference subscriber data associated with the line data.

53. The method of claim 52, which includes processing the validation data to determine whether the subscriber line is a billable line having an associated account to which goods or services can be billed.

54. The method of claim 52, which includes processing the reference subscriber data received from the LIDB selectively to approve a transaction requested via the subscriber line.

55. The method of claim 52, wherein the reference subscriber data is in the form of LIDB codes.

56. The method of claim 55, wherein the processing of the reference subscriber data includes generating a modified code from at least one LIDB code from a plurality of LIDB codes.

57. The method of claim 56, which includes generating a common modified code from the plurality of LIDB codes.

58. The method of claim 57, which includes arranging the modified codes into a billable group and a non-billable group.

59. The method of claim 51 , which includes conducting fraud control checks on the account associated with the subscriber line.

60. The method of claim 59, wherein the fraud control checks include at least one of the operations selected from the group consisting of checking if adjustments have been made to the account associated with the line data, verifying a user entered ZIP code with ZIP data from a ZIP data source, verifying user entered address data with address data from an address data source, checking if an area code associated with the line data has changed, checking if the line data and a BTN match, and checking if one of the BTN and ANI are missing from the record.

61. The method of claim 48, which includes interrogating a network database with the ANI to determine if the subscriber line is a billable subscriber line and, if so, generating one of a decline status and an approved status in response to the interrogation.

62. The method of claim 61 , which includes interrogating with the line data at least one of a competitive local exchange carrier (CLEC) database, a 42 BLOCK database, a Block and Cancel database, an unpaid bills database, an off network database, an on network database, an address verification database, a regional account office (RAO) database, an operating company number (OCN) database, and a customer account record exchange (CARE) database.

63. The method of claim 48, which includes: receiving the line data from a vendor of goods or services; and communicating one of a decline status and an approval status to the vendor in response to receiving the line data from the vendor.

64. The method of claim 63, which includes billing charges raised by the vendor to an account submitted by an exchange carrier to a subscriber for use of the subscriber line.

65. A machine-readable medium for storing a set of instructions that, when executed by a machine, cause the machine to: obtain line data of a subscriber line, the line data being suitable for interrogating a line identification database (LIDB); interrogate the LIDB with the line data to obtain reference subscriber data associated with the line data; and process the reference subscriber data to obtain validation data associated with the subscriber line.

66. A subscriber line validation system to validate a subscriber line of a communication network, the system including a communication module to receive line data of the subscriber line, the line data being suitable for interrogating a line identification database (LIDB); an interrogation module for interrogating the LIDB with the line data to obtain reference subscriber data associated with the line data; and a processor module for processing the reference subscriber data to obtain validation data associated with the subscriber line.

67. The system of claim 66, wherein the LIDB is at least one conventional LIDB used by at least one service provider to investigate a destination line to which the subscriber line requests a connection.

68. The system of claim 67, wherein the processor module is configured to analyze the reference subscriber data to determine if the data is associated with a billing telephone number (BTN) and to generate one of an approval and a decline status in response to the analysis.

69. The system of claim 66, wherein the line data is an automatic number identification (ANI).

70. The system of claim 69, wherein the interrogation module is configured to interrogate the LIDB with the ANI to obtain the reference subscriber data associated with the line data.

71. The system of claim 70, wherein the validation data is processed to determine whether the subscriber line is a billable line having an associated account to which goods or services can be billed.

72. The system of claim 70, wherein the reference subscriber data is received from the LIDB and is processed selectively to approve a transaction requested via the subscriber line.

73. The system of claim 70, wherein the reference subscriber data is in the form of conventional LIDB codes and the processor module generates a modified code from at least one LIDB code.

74. The system of claim 73, wherein a common modified code is generated from a plurality of different LIDB codes.

75. The system of claim 74, wherein a plurality of modified codes are generated and arranged in a billable group and a non-billable group.

76. The system of claim 69, wherein the processor module is configured to conduct at least one fraud control check selected from the group consisting of checking if adjustments have been made to the account associated with the line data, verifying a user entered ZIP code with a ZIP data source, verifying user entered address data with an address data source, checking if the area code associated with the ANI has changed, checking if the ANI and the BTN match, and checking if at least one of the BTN and ANI is missing from the record.

77. The system of claim 66, wherein the processor module is configured to interrogate a network database with the ANI to determine if the subscriber line is a billable subscriber line and, if so, generate one of a decline status and an approved status in response to the interrogation.

78. The system of claim 77, wherein the network database includes at least one of a competitive local exchange carrier (CLEC) database, a 42 BLOCK database, a Block and Cancel database, an unpaid bills database, an off network database, an on network database, an address verification database, a regional account office (RAO) database, an operating company number (OCN) database, and a customer account record exchange (CARE) database.

79. The system of claim 66, wherein the communication module receives the line data from a vendor of goods or services and communicates at least a decline status to the vendor.

80. The system of claim 79, wherein charges raised by the vendor are included in an account submitted by an exchange carrier to a subscriber for use of the subscriber line.

81. A system to provide validation data associated with a subscriber line of a telecommunication network, the system including means for obtaining line data of the subscriber line, the line data being suitable for interrogating a line identification database (LIDB); means for interrogating the LIDB with the line data to obtain reference subscriber data associated with the line data; and means for processing the reference subscriber data to obtain validation data associated with the subscriber line.