Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

The method of eliminating or reducing cloning of electronic identification serial numbers (herein ESN numbers) of cellular telephones involves programming the phone to generate and broadcast the valid ESN number only under certain circumstances. The method preventing utilizes either a standard cellular telephone or a cellular telephone with a uniquely configured user input device (for example, a credit card reader). The cell phone stores the valid ESN in one memory location and a pseudo ESN in another memory location. Upon 'power up' of the cellular phone, the valid ESN number is stored in a third memory location and the pseudo ESN number is stored in the first memory location where the valid ESN number was originally stored. The pseudo ESN number is used during all cellular communications between the cellular telephone and the cellular telecommunications network unless certain user initiated events occur at the cell phone. One of the following conditions must occur at the cell phone in order to access the valid ESN number: the user must enter a predetermined user code; enter an emergency telephone number; enter a communications command substantially equivalent to the selection of one a plurality of predetermined telephone numbers or, in the special credit card cell phone, the user must enter valid credit card data information. Upon the occurrence of one of these conditions, the specially programmed cell phone copies the assigned or valid ESN number back into the first memory location. Thereafter, the cell phone utilizes the valid ESN number for the telecommunications link.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim