Indirect disposable email addressing
US7305445B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jan 28, 2003 |
| Grant date | Dec 4, 2007 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 8, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04L51/48
- WIPO fieldDigital communication
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Methods, systems, and computer program products for reducing unsolicited electronic messages by using immutable email identities in place of traditional email addresses. Over any of various protocols, an address generation server receives an electronic message requesting a disposable address for an intended recipient having an immutable email identity. The request also includes a return address for the sender, which discourages unsolicited messages because most senders of unsolicited messages prefer to remain anonymous. After receiving the request, the address generation server creates the disposable electronic message address, which may be limited in use. A challenge must be completed before the address may be discovered or used. This challenge further discourages unsolicited electronic messages because it imposes a burden that many senders of unsolicited messages are unwilling to bear.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.