Importance

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Abstract

An asset/account activation device and method are provided. According to a first preferred method, an asset may be activated by a point of sale device utilizing multiple security mechanisms. Activation codes are sent by secure electronic transmission from an activation host to the activation device. Upon execution of the asset purchase, the activation device dispenses the activation code. Prior thereto, a physical representation of the asset, in the form of a card or the like, has printed thereon an asset ID. To activate the asset, the asset owner contacts a processing device wherein the activation code and asset ID are compared based on time constraints, retailer location constraints and other constraints. Other security checks may be incorporated to include velocity checks. The apparatus of the invention includes an activation host, an activation device, a processing device or VRU, and an activation database. The activation database stores multiple data elements regarding accounts corresponding to specified assets, along with other system data such as retailer information, and security data. The activation host includes a central processor or computer which is able to manipulate the data to control the flow of data. The activation device is installed at a distributor location to distribute activation IDs. Asset activation occurs by interaction of the asset owner with the processing device which makes an activation approval request to the activation host. The activation host approves/disapproves the activation request with the asset host actually activating the asset. The asset host may communicate with the distributor's computer system to create a billing record or tracking report. A second preferred method is disclosed for distributing activation codes through the use of preprinted paper based sheets of activation IDs. Activation of assets in the second method is achieved in the same way as in the first method.

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First Claim