Importance

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Abstract

A method and apparatus for controlling access to at least one program on a computer by verifying data entered through a keyboard with data stored on a token such as a card, while isolating the entered data from the computer. The apparatus includes a verification device, external to the computer, which receives the card. When activated, the verification device isolates itself from the computer, and then receives the entered data and forwards the entered data to the card. The card compares the entered data with data stored on the card. The result of the comparison is forwarded to the verification unit which generates a status signal indicative of the result of the comparison. The verification device is operable in a first mode wherein data provided to the verification unit via the keyboard is not provided to the computer. The verification device is also operable in a second mode, wherein at least one program on the computer is accessible via the keyboard when the data entered through the keyboard matches the data from the card. When operating in a third mode, communications is restricted to that between the verification device and the computer. The verification device operates in one of the three modes in accordance with commands from the computer.

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First Claim