Importance

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Abstract

Apparatus and methods are provided for transacting secure purchase and bill payment transactions. A method for transacting a secure purchase via an internet using a system including a computer, a first communication device coupled to the computer and to the internet, and a secure keyboard, the secure keyboard including a controller, an interface between the controller and the computer, a removable media interface, an alphanumeric keypad, an encryption device, and a second communication device coupled to a secure host, includes the steps of browsing the internet via the first communication device, retrieving item data for a purchase from the internet via the first communication device, accessing information from removable media using the removable media interface, the information including a user identifier and an issuer identifier, entering a personal identifier number (PIN) on the alphanumeric keypad, encrypting the PIN using the encryption device, sending to the secure host via the second communication device, the information, the item data, and the encrypted PIN, the secure host blocking the information and the PIN from the internet, the secure host requesting authorization from a bank system for making the purchase using the information and PIN, proceeding with the purchase if the secure host receives from the bank system a bank authorization for the purchase, otherwise canceling the purchase, the secure host sending purchase transaction data to the secure keyboard via the second communication device, and the secure keyboard printing a purchase transaction receipt.

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First Claim