Method and apparatus for providing enhanced communications
US9185214B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Feb 28, 2013 |
| Grant date | Nov 10, 2015 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 7, 2033 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04M2203/6081
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
Call service centers typically require a user to confirm its identity by manually entering identification. An embodiment of the present invention uses a client device's identification to identify a user securely without requiring a user to enter identification manually. The client device's automatic numbering identification (ANI) number is an example of identification of the user, and the client device's media access control address is an example of information used, as an encryption key, to verify that the ANI number is not spoofed. In one embodiment, the client device provides the ANI number to a data server prior to a call, and the data server provides information to enable enhancement of the call either by sending the information to the call center directly or via the client device. Benefits of embodiments of the present invention include a reduced load on call service centers, reduced call time, and increased user satisfaction.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.