Importance

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Abstract

A method facilitating a transaction between a camera-phone user and a business entity. The business entity produces a printed medium indicating a transaction. The printed medium includes a barcode that includes direct contact data for communicating with the business entity. The barcode further includes specific transaction data relating to the transaction in the printed medium. Using the digital camera feature, the user captures a digital image of the barcode. The camera-phone is programmed to decode the digital image to retrieve the direct contact data and the transaction data embedded in the barcode. The camera-phone then automatically initiates a direct communication with the business entity via the mobile communications device using the decoded direct contact data. Once communications are established, the camera phone further transmits the transaction data derived from the barcode to further facilitate the transaction. The barcode includes an encrypted digital signature that can be used by the camera-phone to authenticate the identity of the business entity that created the printed medium.

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First Claim