WO2009113991A1

WO2009113991A1 - Systems and methods for mobile device and code based money deposit, withdrawal and transfer

Info

Publication number: WO2009113991A1
Application number: PCT/US2008/010527
Authority: WO
Inventors: David Memusi Tetu
Original assignee: Mobank Solutions, Llc
Priority date: 2008-03-10
Filing date: 2008-09-08
Publication date: 2009-09-17

Abstract

A user registers with a banking server to obtain a username associated with a bank account. The user purchases a code associated with a deposit amount. The code may be sold by a retail outlet and may be printed on scratcher card with the code hidden by opaque removable material. Using the mobile device, the user logs into the banking server and sends the deposit code to the banking server. The banking server validates the deposit code and then instructs the bank to deposit funds equal to the deposit amount into the bank account. To withdraw money, the banking server sends an authorization to the user's mobile device, which is read by a reader device at a retail outlet which dispenses money. To transfer money, the user uses the mobile device to identify transferor and transferee bank accounts and an amount of funds to transfer between the two.

Description

SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR MOBILE DEVICE AND CODE BASED MONEY DEPOSIT, WITHDRAWAL AND TRANSFER

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates generally to banking systems, and more particularly to systems and methods for mobile device and code based deposit, transfer and withdrawal of money.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Not too long ago, travelling to the bank and waiting in long lines were an ordinary and inconvenient part of the banking experience. The invention and proliferation of Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) has helped reduce these problems by severing the physical ties between bank accounts and banks. Now that a user can go to the nearest ATM instead of the user's bank, it is no longer necessary to travel to the bank and wait in line to conduct simple transactions.

[0003] Despite these advantages over banks, and although ATMs remain a valuable banking resource, there are still many drawbacks to ATMs. ATMs are large, expensive machines that must be installed in carefully chosen locations to prevent theft. For example, many ATMs are built directly into a wall of a building, further adding to the cost of each machine. Additionally, a paid worker must generally service each machine on a daily basis by replenishing the supply of cash and picking up deposits made at the machine.

[0004] These costs of ATMs place a practical limit on the number that can be installed in any given area. Particularly in crowded cities, this scarcity of ATMs often results in lines of five minutes or more. Similarly, and particularly in more rural areas, the scarcity of ATMs requires people to travel to reach them. Thus, although ATMs have made banking more convenient, they have not completely eliminated the problems of travelling and waiting in line to conduct simple transactions like depositing or withdrawing money.

[0005] Another drawback of ATMs is that they are generally associated with only one bank or network of banks. If an ATM user is not a member of the bank that owns the ATM, the user will generally have to pay a significant usage fee to withdraw money. Although people will always try to use their own bank's ATMs in order to avoid these fees, other ATMs may be much closer. For convenience and to save time, people are often willing to pay the usage fee rather than search for one of their bank's ATMs.

[0006] Additional problems with ATMs are the safety and security issues they create. ATMs are a tempting target for thieves as it is well known that ATMs contain a large amount of money. Similarly, thieves know that a person using an ATM is either depositing or withdrawing money. A common crime is for an attacker to ambush an ATM user after he enters his secret Personal Identification Number (PIN) and then force him to empty out his bank account.

[0007] Additionally, ATMs are completely absent from many areas of the world. In extremely rural areas of the world, the small number of users generally does not justify the cost of installing and servicing the machine. Further, ATMs must be connected to a financial network via either a phone line, a direct line, or the internet. Therefore ATMs cannot be installed in areas with no communications infrastructure.

[0008] Finally, ATMs are relatively uncommon in economically underdeveloped countries. For example, as of 2005, in much of Africa there were only about 10 ATMs per million people, which is less than 1% of the figure for the United States. China, India, Indonesia, and many South and Central American countries also have very few ATMs per capita compared to the United States and Europe. In these countries, travelling to the bank is still a necessary inconvenience of simple banking transactions.

[0009] Further exacerbating the problems associated with a lack of ATMs in these countries is that there is often a similar lack of banks. People may be forced to travel long distances to get to a bank, and then wait in lines sometimes an hour or longer just to make a simple deposit or withdrawal of money. In economically underdeveloped countries, this is much more than a mere inconvenience. Many people cannot afford the transportation needed to routinely travel long distances, or the cost of taking time off of work to travel to the bank and wait in line. For this reason it is not economical for many people to make small deposits. Instead they are forced to save their money at home and then make one large deposit when they can afford to go to the bank, if they ever deposit it all. Not only is saving money at home far less secure than saving it at a bank, it also eliminates the interest that could have been earned on the money. A related problem is that if people do not save their money in banks, the banks have less money to lend, thus hampering much needed economic development. [0010] Accordingly, there is a long felt but unsolved need for a way to deposit, withdraw and/or transfer money that does not require travelling to a bank or ATM. There is also a long felt but unsolved need for a money deposit and withdrawal system in which money is not concentrated at relatively few locations, but is rather distributed over many widespread locations, thus increasing convenience and safety for users. Finally, there is also a long felt but unsolved need for a way to facilitate small deposits of money so that people who cannot afford to travel to the closest bank are not forced to hide their money in their homes.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] These needs and others are solved by the present invention, which includes systems and methods for mobile device and code based deposit, withdrawal and transfer of money.

[0012] In a method for using a mobile device to deposit money in a bank account, a user first registers with a banking server, either in person or via a communications device, to obtain a username associated with a bank account. The user then purchases a deposit code associated with a deposit amount. Using the mobile device, the user logs into the banking server by transmitting at least the user's username to the banking server. The user enters the deposit code into the mobile device and uses the mobile device to transmit at least the deposit code to the banking server. The banking server validates the deposit code and determines the deposit amount associated with the deposit code. The banking server, which may or may not be owned and/or operated by the bank, then instructs the bank to deposit funds equal to the deposit amount into the bank account. Upon receiving the instruction, the bank deposits the funds into the bank account.

[0013] The deposit code is preferably sold by a retail outlet and printed on a scratcher card with the code obscured by opaque removable material. The user purchases the scratcher card for a price equal to or slightly greater than the deposit amount. Any difference between the purchase price and the deposit amount may be kept by any or all of the retail outlet, the mobile banking server, and the bank as a commission. The deposit amount is printed on the face of the card unobscured by the opaque removable material covering the deposit code. The user scratches away the opaque removable material using an implement such as a coin or key to reveal the deposit code.

[0014] The deposit code may also be displayed to the user in any other way. For example, the retail outlet, which may be any type of store or automated kiosk, may print out the deposit code on a card or piece of paper, or display the deposit code electronically on a screen. In this case the retail outlet may be in communication with the banking server so that the deposit code is sent to the retail outlet prior to being displayed to the user.

[0015] The username may be stored in the mobile device, for example on the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card in a mobile phone, or may be manually entered into the mobile device by the user. The registration process may further include creating a password associated with the username, and the login process may further include transmitting the password to the mobile banking server. Like the username, the password may be stored in the mobile device or may be manually entered each time the user logs in. The registration process may be done in person or via a communications device such as a mobile device or an automated kiosk. Registration may also be done at the time the bank account is opened.

[0016] The deposit code may have an associated security code, which may be printed on the deposit card or may be given to the user by the retail outlet separately from the deposit card. If the security code is printed on a scratcher card, it may or may not be covered by the opaque removable material. The user enters the security code into the mobile device and transmits it to the mobile banking server, which then validates that the transmitted security code is in fact associated with the transmitted deposit code.

[0017] The user may use a communications device such as a mobile device to withdraw money by inputting a withdrawal amount and transmitting the withdrawal amount to the mobile banking server. The mobile banking server confirms that the user's bank account has funds greater than or equal to the withdrawal amount. The mobile banking server sends an authorization to the communications device or to the retail outlet. If sent to a mobile device, the retail outlet may use a computer or handheld device to read the authorization. The retail outlet then gives the user funds equal to the withdrawal amount. The funds dispensed by the retail outlet may be cash, cell phone airtime, or goods or services having a value equal or proportional to the withdrawal amount.

[0018] The user may use the mobile device to transfer money by inputting account numbers for transferor and transferee bank accounts and an amount of funds to transfer between the two. The user transmits these numbers to the mobile banking server which confirms that the transferor bank account has sufficient funds for the transfer. The bank then withdraws the transfer amount from the transferor account and deposits funds equal to at least a portion of the transfer amount into the transferee account. The transferee account may be owned by a creditor of the user, and the transfer amount may correspond to the amount of a bill owed to creditor. For example, the creditor may be a utility company such as a phone company.

[0019] A method of using a mobile device to withdraw money from a bank account is also provided. A user registers with a mobile banking server by creating a username and linking the username to a bank account. The user logs into the mobile banking server by using the mobile device to transmit at least the username to the mobile banking server. The user inputs a withdrawal amount in the mobile device and transmits the withdrawal amount to the mobile banking server. The mobile banking server determines whether the bank account has sufficient funds to cover the withdrawal and, if so, transmits a withdrawal authorization to the mobile device. The mobile device is connected to a reader device at a retail outlet, and the reader device reads the withdrawal authorization on the mobile device. After reading the withdrawal authorization, the retail outlet dispenses funds having a value proportional to the withdrawal amount, for example equal to the withdrawal amount, optionally less a small service fee.

[0020] The reader device may be a small handheld computer that connects to the mobile device with either a physical or wireless connection. The retail outlet may be, for example, a store or an automate kiosk. If the retail outlet is an automated kiosk, the reader device is built into the kiosk.

[0021] A money deposit system is also provided. The system includes a deposit code associated with a deposit amount, a retail outlet that sells the deposit code, a mobile device, a banking server, and a communications network that operatively connects the mobile device to the mobile banking server. The mobile banking server has a database that associates a username with a bank account and a database that associates deposit codes with deposit amounts. A user of the system deposits funds into a bank account by first purchasing the deposit code from the retail outlet. The purchase price is greater than or equal to the deposit amount associated with the deposit code. The user inputs the username into the mobile device and transmits the username to the mobile banking server to log in to the mobile banking server. The user inputs the deposit code into the mobile device and transmits the deposit code to the mobile banking server, which then validates the deposit code. After validating the deposit code, the mobile banking server instructs the bank to deposit funds having a value equal to the deposit amount into the bank account.

[0022] The deposit code may be printed on a card sold by the retail outlet. The card may be a scratcher card with opaque removable material at least partially obscuring the deposit code so that the user must scratch off the removable material in order to reveal the deposit code. Alternatively, the deposit code may be transmitted to the retail outlet by the mobile banking server and the retail outlet displays the deposit code to the user. The retail outlet, which may be a store or an automated kiosk, displays the deposit code by printing it on a piece of paper or displaying it on a screen.

[0023] A money withdrawal system is also provided. The money withdrawal system includes a mobile device, a retail outlet with a reader device for reading data on the mobile device, a mobile banking server, and a communications network. The mobile banking server has a database that associates a username with a bank account. The communications network operatively connects the mobile device and the mobile banking server, and optionally operatively connects the retail outlet to the mobile banking server. A user withdraws funds from the bank account by first inputting the username into the mobile device and transmitting the username to the mobile banking server to log in to the mobile banking server. The user inputs a withdrawal amount into the mobile device and transmits the withdrawal amount to the mobile banking server. The mobile banking server confirms that the bank account contains sufficient funds to cover the withdrawal amount and, if so, transmits a withdrawal authorization to the mobile device. A reader device at the retail outlet connects to the mobile device (physically or wirelessly) and reads the withdrawal authorization. The retail outlet, which may be a store or an automated kiosk, dispenses funds to the user having a value equal to the withdrawal amount.

[0024] Finally, a scratcher-card based method for depositing money into a bank account is provided. A user registers with a mobile banking server by creating a username and a password, and linking the user name to a bank account. The user purchases a scratcher card from a retail outlet. The scratcher card has a deposit code at least partially obscured by an opaque removable material. The deposit code is associated with a deposit amount less than or equal to the purchase price of the scratcher card. The user scratches off the opaque removable material to reveal the deposit code. The user logs in to the mobile banking server by inputting the username and password into the mobile device and transmitting them to the mobile banking server. The mobile banking server accesses a user database to determine whether the username and password are valid. The user inputs the deposit code into the mobile device and transmits the deposit code to the mobile banking server. After the mobile banking server receives the deposit code, it accesses a code database that associates deposit codes with deposit amounts. After determining the deposit amount associated with the deposit code transmitted by the user, the mobile banking server authorizes funds to be deposited into the bank account. The funds deposited have a value equal to the deposit amount associated with the deposit code.

[0025] The present invention overcomes the problems of prior art banking systems by making it possible to deposit money in a bank account by purchasing a deposit code from any retail outlet. Thus, users of the present invention no longer have to travel to banks or ATMs but instead can simply go to the nearest retail outlet. The large number of retail outlets selling deposit cards plus quick and simple nature of the deposit code purchase transaction will eliminate the long lines sometimes associated with conducting banking transactions at banks and ATMs. The present invention is particularly well-suited for rural and/or economically underdeveloped areas with relatively few banks and ATMs.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] These and other features of the invention are described in further detail in the following description and will be better understood with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are briefly described below.

[0027] Figure 1 shows a mobile device and code based money deposit, withdrawal and transfer system of the present invention.

[0028] Figure 2A shows a deposit scratcher card with a deposit amount and a deposit code area covered with opaque removable material.

[0029] Figure 2B shows the deposit scratcher card of Figure 2A with the opaque removable material removed to reveal the deposit code associated with the deposit amount.

[0030] Figure 3 shows a deposit scratcher card with several optional features.

[0031] Figure 4 shows a flow chart of a method of depositing money using a mobile device and a deposit code, according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 5 shows a flow chart of a method of registering with the mobile banking server of the present invention.

[0033] Figure 6 shows a flow chart of a method of withdrawing money using a mobile device and a reader device, according to one embodiment of the present invention. [0034] Figure 7 shows a flow chart of a method of transferring money using a mobile device, according to another aspect of the present invention.

[0035] Figure 8 shows a scratcher-card based system for deposit money, according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0036] Figure 9 shows a code-based system for withdrawing money, according to another aspect of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0037] All terms used throughout the specification and claims should be given their ordinary meaning. However, for purposes of clarity, the following terms are defined explicitly below:

[0038] A "mobile device" is any portable device capable of receiving user input and communicating wirelessly. Examples of mobile devices include without limitation cellular phones, smartphones, personal digital assistants (PDAs), portable media players and portable computers. Although mobile devices are the preferred communication device in the present invention, any communications device may used. For example, landline telephones and computer terminals, including computers connected to the internet and ATMs, may be used.

[0039] A "deposit code" is any unique sequence of numbers, letters or symbols that is associated with a fixed amount of money.

[0040] A "retail outlet" is any store, kiosk, vending machine or the like that sells deposit codes.

[0041] A "kiosk" is any small free-standing structure that sells deposit codes or accepts deposit codes from a user, including an interactive computer terminal such as an ATM. A kiosk may or may not be connected to a communications network. A kiosk may or may not be a retail outlet. For example, a kiosk may be used to input and transmit a deposit code to a mobile banking server.

[0042] A deposit "card" is any medium on which a deposit code is printed, including cardstock, paper or plastic. [0043] A "database" is any structured and organize collection of data. One database may contain a plurality of other databases, and a plurality of database may be combined into one database. As a database may be accessed via a communications network, the physical location of the database is not critical.

[0044] A user of the present invention registers with a banking server to obtain a username associated with a bank account. Registration may be accomplished using a communications device such as a mobile device, but may also be done in person. The user purchases a code associated with a deposit amount. The code may be sold by a retail outlet and may be printed on scratcher card with the code hidden by opaque removable material. Using the mobile device, the user logs into the banking server and sends the deposit code to the banking server. The banking server validates the deposit code and then instructs the bank to deposit funds equal to the deposit amount into the bank account. To withdraw money, the banking server sends an authorization to the user's mobile device, which is read by a reader device at a retail outlet which dispenses money. To transfer money, the user uses the mobile device to identify transferor and transferee bank accounts and an amount of funds to transfer between the two.

[0045] The deposit code is unique sequence associated with a fixed amount of money to deposit in the user's bank account. For example, deposit code "123" could be associated with $20 while deposit code "456" could be associated with $100. Each deposit code is unique and can only be used once prior to its expiration date. This is important to prevent a user from purchasing one deposit code and using it to deposit money multiple times. The deposit code may be associated with one or more security or serial numbers to further prevent fraud. The deposit amount is preferably slightly greater than the purchase price of the deposit code to provide a source of profit for the retail outlet, the bank, or the mobile banking server. This service fee may be proportional to the size of the transaction and may be a fixed fee.

[0046] The deposit code is preferably printed on a deposit card sold to the user by a retail outlet. Also printed on the deposit card is the amount of money associated with the deposit code. Other information may optionally be printed on the deposit card as well, for example an expiration date, a security and/or serial number, deposit instructions, new-user registration instructions, etc. The deposit card preferably includes a counterfeit prevention marking such as a hologram, watermark, microprinting, iridescent ink, etc.

[0047] The deposit card is preferably a scratcher card similar to a lottery "scratch and win" card. Although the deposit amount is visible on the face of the card, the deposit code is at least partially obscured by an opaque removable material (such as latex) that can be removed by scratching with a coin, fingernail, or other hard-edged implement. Persons of ordinary skill in the art will appreciate that many different types of opaque removable materials may be used. The opaque removable material serves at least two important fraud prevention functions. First, it prevents people from reading the code from a deposit card on display in the retail outlet without purchasing the card. Second, it is a reliable indicator of whether a deposit code has already been used. If the opaque material is removed, it likely that the deposit card has already been used. This prevents retail outlets from selling the same card more than once and prevents users from purchasing a card, using the deposit code, and then selling the deposit code to a third party.

[0048] Other information, such as a security or serial number, may or may not be obscured by the opaque removable material. The deposit code expiration date is printed on the card and is unobscured. Any anti-counterfeiting measures are also preferably unobscured by the opaque removable material.

[0049] As an alternative to a scratcher card, the deposit code may be printed out by a retail outlet responsive to a user purchase. For example, the deposit code may be printed out on a card or receipt. The retail outlet may have a database of deposit codes onsite, or it may download deposit codes from a banking server each time a user makes a purchase. Another alternative is for the retail outlet to simply display the deposit code on a screen.

[0050] The retail outlet that sells the deposit codes may be any type of vendor, including convenience stores, grocery stores, drug stores, vending machines, automated kiosks, etc. It is not necessary for the retail outlet to be connected to a communications network, although it may be.

[0051] The mobile device is preferably a cellular phone, but can be any device capable of receiving user input and transmitting information via a communications network. User input is preferably received by pressing the number keys, but may be received by any method including voice recognition or wireless communication with another device. Any type of communications network may be used, including digital or analog cellular phone networks, but the particular type of communications network is not critical.

[0052] The mobile banking server is a server connected to a communications network. The mobile banking server includes or is connected to at least a user database and a deposit code database. The user database associates usernames with bank accounts, and may also associate passwords and bank account PIN numbers with the usernames and bank accounts. The deposit code database associates deposit codes with deposit amounts. All of the deposit codes sold are contained in the deposit code database. The mobile banking server may be operated by the bank in which the user's bank accounts are held, but is preferably operated independently of banks. The mobile banking server may also be operated by a retail outlet, alone or in combination with other entities, and it may distributed over a plurality of physical locations. When a user sends a deposit code to the mobile banking server, the mobile banking server looks up the deposit code in the deposit code database to determine its associated deposit amount. The mobile banking server then contacts the bank in which bank account is held and deposits funds equal to the deposit amount. Preferably the operator of the mobile banking server transfers funds from an account of the operator to the account of the user, but the funds can be from any source.

[0053] The present invention may also be used for making withdrawals at retail outlets. If so, the retail outlet has a reader device for connecting to the user's mobile device to download a withdrawal authorization sent to the user by the mobile banking server. The reader device is preferably a handheld computer or a mobile device such as a mobile phone. The reader device connects to the mobile device physically using a cable, or wirelessly using protocols such as Bluetooth or IEEE 802.11. Persons of ordinary skill in the art are aware of numerous methods of downloading data from one device to another, and the particular method used is not critical to the functionality of the present invention. All of the data transmissions in any of the embodiments of the present invention may be encrypted using well-known methods. Although encryption is not necessary to realize the functionality of the invention, it is preferable in order to prevent theft and fraud.

[0054] There are many advantages of the present invention over existing banking systems. It will now be possible to deposit money by conducting a quick and simple transaction at any retail outlet. It will no longer be necessary to travel to a bank and wait in line in order to deposit, withdraw, or transfer money. The present invention also provides a much safer and more secure alternative to ATMs. Unlike ATMs stocked full of cash, retail outlets stocked with deposit cards will not be targets of crime. Whereas cash is relatively untraceable and universally accepted, the deposit cards are all unique and traceable according to their deposit code. If any deposit cards are stolen, the retail outlet reports the theft to the mobile banking server and the deposit codes are voided. Furthermore, anyone who attempts to use a stolen deposit code will be quickly identified from their login information. [0055] Due to the relative ease of depositing money from any location, users of the present invention will be more likely to deposit money than they would be if they had to travel a long distance to a bank or ATM. This benefits the user both by making it possible to earn interest on money that otherwise would have been hidden at home, and by saving the money in a much more secure location. Increased deposits of money in banks also benefit the economy by providing more money for banks to lend.

[0056] The present invention also provides a new source of income for banks and retail outlets. For example, the purchase price of a deposit code is preferably slightly greater than the deposit amount. The difference between the purchase price and the deposit amount may be given to any or all of the retail outlet, the bank, or the operator of the mobile banking server. Similarly, when withdrawals are made, slightly more than the withdrawal amount may be withdrawn from the user's bank account. The difference in value may be kept by any or all of the retail outlet, the bank, or the operator of the mobile banking server.

[0057] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are described in detail below with reference to the appended figures, wherein like elements are referenced with like numerals throughout. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and do not necessarily show every detail or structure of the various embodiments of the invention, but rather illustrate exemplary embodiments and mechanical features in order to provide an enabling description of such embodiments. Throughout the following description, the communications device used to communicate with the mobile banking server is a mobile device. However, persons of ordinary skill in the art are aware that any communications device may be used without departing from the scope and spirit of the invention. For example, the communications device may be landline telephone, a computer terminal, an ATM or any other device connected to a communications network.

[0058] As seen in Figure 1, the money deposit, withdrawal and transfer system 100 includes mobile device 110, deposit code 115 optionally printed on deposit card 120, retail outlet 130 optionally including reader device 132, communications network 140, mobile banking server 150 and bank account 160. Mobile banking server 150 includes or communicates with user database 152 and deposit code database 154. Mobile device 1 10 and mobile banking server 150 are operatively connected via communications network 140. Retail outlet 130 is optionally connected to communications network 140. Mobile Banking Server 150 may be directly connected to bank account 160, as shown, or may alternatively be connected to bank account 160 via communications network 140.

[0059] To make a deposit, a user must first register with mobile banking server 150 to create a username and associate it with bank account 160. The registration process is described in further detail below. The user purchases deposit code 115 from retail outlet 130 and then connects to mobile banking server 150 via communications network 140. The user logs in to mobile banking server 150 by inputting the username (and optionally a password) into the mobile device and transmitting it to mobile banking server 150. The transmission may be a Short Message Service (SMS) text message, but may be any form of data transmission known in the art. Alternatively, the user may dial a phone number for mobile banking server 150 and enter the username with the keypad. In this embodiment, mobile banking server 150 recognizes the keystrokes by tone recognition. Mobile banking server 150 looks up the inputted username (and password, if applicable) in user database 152 to determine if the username is valid and the bank account number associated with the username. Alternatively, and particularly where the user has multiple bank accounts, the user may specify the number of the bank account into which the funds should be deposited.

[0060] After logging in, the user inputs deposit code 11-5 into mobile device 110 and transmits it to mobile banking server 150. Any method of data transmission known in the art may be used, and the particular method chosen is not critical. Mobile banking server 150 looks up deposit code 115 in deposit code database 154 to determine if it is valid and its associated deposit amount. Once deposit code 115 is thus validated, mobile banking server 150 instructs the bank in which bank account 160 is held to deposit the deposit amount in bank account 160. In this embodiment, the operator of mobile banking server 150 has a bank account from which funds are withdrawn and then deposited in bank account 160. Although mobile banking server 150 is independent from the bank in this embodiment, the bank may also operate mobile banking server 150.

[0061] Although in this embodiment bank account 160 belongs to the user, in other embodiments it may belong to a creditor of the user. For example, the user may pay bills by depositing funds in the bank account of a creditor such as a utility company. Alternatively, the user can buy goods at the retail outlet by depositing funds in a bank account owned by the retail outlet. Many other applications of the present invention will be apparent to persons of ordinary skill in the art. [0062] To withdraw money, the user connects and logs in to mobile banking server 150 as described above. The user then inputs a withdrawal amount and optionally a bank account number from which the funds should be withdrawn. Mobile banking server 150 communicates with bank account 160 to determine if it contains sufficient funds for the requested withdrawal. If so, mobile banking server 150 withdraws at least the withdrawal amount from bank account 160 and sends a withdrawal authorization to mobile device 110. The funds withdrawn from bank account 160 are optionally deposited into a bank account of the mobile banking server operator. The user goes to retail outlet 130 and connects mobile device 110 to reader device 132. Reader device 132 downloads the withdrawal authorization from mobile device 110 and then retail outlet 130 dispenses the requested funds to the user. The funds dispensed are generally cash, but may also be cellular phone airtime or any other goods or services.

[0063] To transfer money, the user connects and logs in to mobile banking server 150 as described above. The user then inputs a transfer amount, a transferor bank account number, and a transferee bank account number. The user may also input a password or PIN number associated with the transferor bank account. Mobile banking server 150 communicates with the transferor bank account to determine if it contains sufficient funds to cover the transfer. If so, mobile banking server 150 instructs the bank to withdraw the transfer amount from the transferor bank account and deposit the transfer amount in transferee bank account.

[0064] One embodiment of deposit card 120 is shown in Figures 2A and 2B. In this embodiment, deposit card 120 is a scratcher card with deposit code area 122. In Figure 2A, deposit code area 122 is covered and obscured by an opaque removable material such as latex. In Figure 2B, the opaque removable material has been removed to reveal deposit code 115. Deposit amount 124 is printed on the face of deposit card 120 and is unobscured by any opaque removable material. Although deposit amount 124 is depicted here as $25, any amount and any currency may be used.

[0065] A variety of optional features for deposit card 120 are shown in Figure 3. Deposit card 120 is a scratcher card with deposit code area 122 obscured by opaque removable material and deposit amount 124 unobscured. Deposit card 120 contains a hologram 125 to prevent counterfeiting and serial number 126 to facilitate tracing individual deposit cards 120 without revealing the unique deposit code. Bar code 128 is also used for tracing individual deposit cards 120. [0066] A flow chart for a method 200 of depositing money using a mobile device and a deposit code is shown in Figure 4. A user first registers with a mobile banking server (MBS) (205). The registration process is described below. The user purchases a deposit code (210) from a retail outlet. The user transmits login information (215), such as username, password, and optionally bank account number, to the mobile banking server. This information may be input by the user or stored on the SIM card of the mobile device. The mobile banking server determines whether the login is valid (220). If not, the process ends (225) and the user must try again. If so, the user is prompted to input a deposit code. The user inputs the deposit code (230) and transmits the deposit code to the mobile banking server (235). The mobile banking server determines whether the deposit code is valid (240) If not, the user is informed that the deposit code is invalid and is prompted to try again. If so, the mobile banking server determines the deposit amount associated with the deposit code entered by the user (245). The mobile banking server then instructs the bank at which the user's bank account is held to deposit the deposit amount into the user's bank account (250). The funds for this deposit may be withdrawn from any bank account including, but not limited to, a bank account owned by the operator of the mobile banking server. The bank then deposits funds equal to the deposit amount into the user's bank account (255). The user is then prompted whether to make another deposit. If the user wants to make another deposit, the user inputs another deposit code (230). If the user is finished, the process ends (265).

[0067] The mobile banking server registration process is shown in Figure 5. Although any form of data transmission is contemplated, two methods of initiating registration are shown. Persons of ordinary skill in the art will be aware that registration may be done over non-wireless communication devices or in person, as well as with a mobile device. In a first (305A) method of initiating communication, the Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) card in the users mobile device contains software for registering and communicating with the mobile banking server. The user scrolls through the features of the mobile device until the mobile banking server feature is highlighted. The user selects this feature to initiate communication with the mobile banking server (305A). In the second method of initiating communication, the user's SIM card does not have any special software. Thus, any type of phone capable of Short Message Service (SMS) text messaging can be used. The user sends an SMS text message to the mobile banking server (305B). This text message is preferably a code that informs the mobile banking server that the user wants to register. In other embodiments, landline telephones, ATMs, and computer terminals (including computers connected to the internet) may be used to register. [0068] Regardless of the method of communication used, the mobile banking server prompts the user to enter at least a username and preferably also a password (310). The user inputs a username/password into the mobile device (or other communications device, such as an ATM) and transmits it to the mobile banking server (315). The mobile banking server then prompts the user to enter a bank account number to associate with the username (320). The user inputs at least one bank account and transmits it to the mobile banking server (325). The mobile banking server then prompts the user to enter a PIN number for the bank account (330). The user does so and transmits it to the mobile banking server (335). Alternatively, the user does not input any bank account information at this time, and instead enters bank account numbers at the time of conducting each deposit/withdrawal/transfer. Registration is then complete (340).

[0069] A method of withdrawing money (400) is shown in Figure 6. The user logs in to the mobile banking server (410) as described above. The user inputs and transmits a bank account number from which to withdraw funds (415). Any or all of the login information and the bank account number may be stored on the SIM card of the mobile device or input by the user on a transaction by transaction basis. The user inputs and transmits a withdrawal amount (420). The mobile banking server determines if the identified bank account contains sufficient fund for the withdrawal (425). If so, the mobile banking server transmits a withdrawal authorization (430) to the user's mobile device. A reader device at a retail outlet is connected to the mobile device (435). The reader device then downloads the withdrawal authorization from the mobile device (440). Once the authorization is confirmed, the retail outlet dispenses funds in an amount equal to the withdrawal amount (445). As explained above, the reader device is a computer capable of reading the mobile device, including handheld computers and mobile phones.

[0070] A method of transferring money (500) is shown in Figure 7. The user logs in to the mobile banking server (510) as described above. The login information preferably includes a PIN number for the transferor bank account. The user inputs and transmits a transfer amount (512), a transferor bank account number (515) and a transferee bank account number (520). The mobile banking server determines if the transferor account has sufficient funds for the transfer (525). If so, the mobile banking server instructs the bank to transfer an amount of funds equal to the transfer amount from the transferor account to the transferee account (530). The bank then makes the requested transfer (535).

[0071] A scratcher card-based system 600 and method for depositing money is shown in Figure 8. The system 600 includes communications device 610, which may be mobile device 110 or any other device connected or connectable to communications network 140, for example a landline telephone, a computer terminal, or an ATM. The user purchases deposit code 115 printed on scratcher card 120 from retail outlet 130. The user scratches away opaque removable material on scratcher card 120 to reveal deposit code 115. If the user has not already registered, the user registers with mobile banking server 150 as previously described. If the user is already registered, the user logs in to mobile banking server 150 and uses the communications device to transmit deposit code 115 to server 150. Mobile banking server 150 access user database 152 and deposit code database 154 to validate the transaction and, if valid, deposits an amount of funds equal to the deposit amount associated with deposit code 115 into the user's bank account 160.

[0072] A code based system 602 and method for withdrawing money is shown in Figure 9. The system 602 includes communications device 610 which may be mobile device 110 or any other device connected or connectable to communications network 140, for example a landline telephone, a computer terminal, or an ATM. The user connects to mobile banking server 150 via communications network 140 using communications device 610. The user logs into mobile banking server 150 using communications device 610 and then inputs a withdrawal amount. Mobile banking server 150 accesses user database 152 to determine if bank account 160 contains sufficient funds for the withdrawal. If so, mobile banking server 150 authorizes the transaction and issues withdrawal code 615 corresponding to the withdrawal amount. Mobile banking server records this withdrawal code and associated withdrawal amount in withdrawal code database 654. Mobile banking server 150 transmits withdrawal code 615 to communications device 610 which optionally prints withdrawal code 615 on a card or piece of paper 620. The user presents withdrawal code 615 to retail outlet 130, which then connects to mobile banking server 150 via communications network 140 to validate the transaction. If withdrawal code 615 is still valid and if bank account 160 still has sufficient funds, mobile banking server 150 authorizes the transaction and retail outlet 130 dispenses funds equal to the withdrawal amount. The funds are generally in the form of money, but may also be any other good or service including cellular phone airtime. Retail outlet 130 may also be a kiosk such as an ATM, in which case the user inputs withdrawal code 615 and the kiosk or ATM then dispenses funds after validating the transaction.

[0073] Various modifications and alterations of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, which is defined by the accompanying claims. For example, it should be noted that steps recited in the method claims below do not necessarily need to be performed in the order they are recited. For example, in certain embodiments, steps may be performed simultaneously. The accompanying claims should be constructed with these principles in mind.

[0074] Any element in a claim that does not explicitly state "means for" performing a specified function or "step for" performing a specified function is not to be interpreted as a "means" or "step" clause as specified in 35 U.S.C. § 112, U 6.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. A method of using a mobile device to deposit money in a bank account, the method comprising: registering with a mobile banking server by creating a username and linking the username to a bank account at a bank; purchasing a deposit code associated with a deposit amount; logging in to the mobile banking server by using the mobile device to transmit the username to the mobile banking server; inputting the deposit code into the mobile device; using the mobile device to transmit the deposit code to the mobile banking server; the banking server determining whether the deposit code is valid; the banking server determining the deposit amount associated with the deposit code; the banking server instructing the bank to deposit funds into the bank account; and the bank depositing the funds into the bank account, wherein the funds have a value equal to the deposit amount.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the username is stored on a subscriber identity module card inside the mobile device.

3. The method of claim 1, further comprising inputting the username into the mobile device prior to logging in to the mobile banking server.

4. The method of claim 1, further comprising: creating a password associated with the username; and using the mobile device to transmit the password to the mobile banking server prior to depositing the deposit amount into the bank account.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein the password is stored on a subscriber identity module card inside the mobile device.

6. The method of claim 4, further comprising inputting the password into the mobile device prior to logging in to the mobile banking server.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the deposit code is printed on a card.

8. The method of claim 7, wherein the deposit code is at least partially obscured by an opaque removable material.

9. The method of claim 8, wherein the card is a scratcher card and the deposit code is revealed by scratching off the opaque removable material.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the deposit code is displayed on a screen.

11. The method of claim 1, wherein the deposit code is purchased from a retail outlet.

12. The method of claim 11, wherein the deposit code is transmitted to the retail outlet from the mobile banking server.

13. The method of claim 11, wherein the retail outlet is an automated kiosk.

14. The method of claim 11, further comprising: inputting a withdrawal amount into the mobile device; the mobile banking server determining whether the bank account contains existing funds having a value greater than or equal to the withdrawal amount; the mobile banking server transmitting a withdrawal authorization; and the retail outlet dispensing funds having a value equal to the withdrawal amount.

15. The method of claim 1, wherein a security code is associated with the deposit code, the method further comprising: inputting the security code into the mobile device using the mobile device to transmit the security code to the mobile banking server prior to depositing the funds into the bank account.

16. The method of claim 1, wherein the deposit code is purchased for a purchase amount greater than the deposit amount.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the deposit code is purchased from a retail outlet, and wherein the retail outlet receives a commission equal to at least a portion of the difference between the purchase amount and the deposit amount.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein an operator of the mobile banking server receives a commission equal to at least a portion of the difference between the purchase amount and the deposit amount.

19. The method of claim 1, further comprising: inputting an account number associated with a recipient bank account into the mobile device; inputting a transfer amount into the mobile device; transmitting the transfer amount to the mobile banking server; the mobile banking server determining whether the bank account contains existing funds having a value greater than or equal to the withdrawal amount; and transferring at least a portion of the existing funds from the bank account to the recipient bank account, wherein the funds transferred have a value equal to the transfer amount.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein the recipient bank account is owned by a creditor of the user, and wherein the transfer amount corresponds to a bill amount owed to the creditor.

21. A method of using a mobile device to withdraw money from a bank account, the method comprising: registering with a mobile banking server by creating a username and linking the username to a bank account; logging in to the mobile banking server by using the mobile device to transmit the username to the mobile banking server; inputting a withdrawal amount into the mobile device; using the mobile device to transmit the withdrawal amount to the mobile banking server; the mobile banking server determining whether the bank account contains existing funds having a value greater than or equal to the withdrawal amount; the mobile banking server transmitting a withdrawal authorization to the mobile device; connecting the mobile device to a reader device of a retail outlet; the reader device reading the withdrawal authorization on the mobile device; and the retail outlet dispensing funds having a value proportional to the withdrawal amount.

22. The method of claim 21, wherein the value of the funds dispensed by the retail outlet is equal to the withdrawal amount.

23. The method of claim 21, wherein the value of the funds dispensed by the retail outlet is equal to the withdrawal amount minus a service fee.

24. The method of claim 21, wherein the reader device is a handheld computer.

25. The method of claim 21, wherein the retail outlet is an automated kiosk.

26. A money deposit system, comprising: a deposit code associated with a deposit amount; a retail outlet that sells the deposit code; a mobile device; a mobile banking server, comprising: a user database that associates a username with a bank account at a bank; and a code database that associates the deposit code with the deposit amount; a communications network operatively connecting the mobile device and the mobile banking server; wherein a user of the system deposits funds into the bank account by purchasing the deposit code from the retail outlet for a purchase amount greater than or equal to the deposit amount, inputting the username and the deposit code into the mobile device, and transmitting the username and the deposit code to the mobile banking server; and wherein the mobile banking server validates the deposit code and instructs the bank to deposit funds having a value equal to the deposit amount into the bank account.

27. The system of claim 26, wherein the deposit code is printed on a scratcher card, and wherein the deposit code is at least partially obscured by an opaque removable material.

28. The system of claim 26, wherein the mobile banking server transmits the deposit code to the retail outlet, the retail outlet further comprising a deposit code receiver that receives the deposit code and displays the deposit code to the user.

29. The system of claim 28, wherein the deposit code receiver displays the deposit code by printing the deposit code on a card.

30. The system of claim 28, wherein the deposit code receiver displays the deposit code by displaying the deposit code on a screen.

31. The system of claim 28, wherein the retail outlet is an automated kiosk.

32. A money withdrawal system, comprising: a mobile device; a retail outlet with a reader device for reading data on the mobile device; a mobile banking server with a user database that associates a username with a bank account; a communications network operatively connecting the mobile device and the mobile banking server; wherein responsive to a user of the system inputting the username into the mobile device, transmitting the username to the mobile banking server to log in to the mobile banking server, inputting a withdrawal amount into the mobile device and transmitting the withdrawal amount to the mobile banking server, the mobile banking server confirms that the bank account contains funds having a value greater than or equal to the withdrawal amount and then transmits a withdrawal authorization to the mobile device; and wherein the reader device connects to the mobile device, reads the withdrawal authorization on the mobile device and the retail outlet dispenses funds having a value equal to the withdrawal amount.

33. The system of claim 32, wherein the retail outlet is an automated kiosk.

34. A scratcher card-based method for depositing money into a bank account, the method comprising: a user registering with a mobile banking server by creating a username and a password, and linking the username to a bank account; the user purchasing a scratcher card from a retail outlet, the scratcher card comprising a deposit code obscured by an opaque removable material, wherein the deposit code is associated with a deposit amount; the user scratching off the opaque removable material to reveal the deposit code; the user inputting the username and the password into a communications device; the user logging in to the mobile banking server by using the communications device to transmit the username and the password to the mobile banking server; responsive to receiving the username and the password, the mobile banking server accessing a user database to determine whether the username and the password are valid; the user inputting the deposit code into the communications device; the user using the communications device to transmit the deposit code to the mobile banking server; responsive to receiving the deposit code, the mobile banking server accessing a code database that associates the deposit code with the deposit amount; and the mobile banking server authorizing funds to be deposited into the bank account, wherein the funds have a value equal to the deposit amount.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the communications device is a mobile device

36. The method of claim 34, wherein the communications device is a kiosk connected to a communications network.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein the kiosk is an Automatic Teller Machine.

38. The method of claim 34, wherein the retail outlet is a kiosk.

39. The method of claim 34, wherein the retail outlet is a vending machine.

40. A money withdrawal system, comprising: a communications device; a retail outlet; a mobile banking server with a user database that associates a username with a bank account; a communications network operatively connecting the communications device to the mobile banking server, and the retail outlet to the mobile banking server; wherein responsive to a user of the system inputting the username into the communications device, transmitting the username to the mobile banking server to log in to the mobile banking server, inputting a withdrawal amount into the communications device and transmitting the withdrawal amount to the mobile banking server, the mobile banking server confirms that the bank account contains funds having a value greater than or equal to the withdrawal amount and then transmits a withdrawal code corresponding to the withdrawal amount to the communications device; and wherein the user presents the withdrawal code to the retail outlet, the retail outlet validates the withdrawal code with the mobile banking server, and the retail outlet dispenses funds having a value equal to the withdrawal amount.

41. The system of claim 40, wherein the communications device is a mobile device.

42. The system of claim 40, wherein the communications device is a kiosk.

43. The system of claim 40, wherein the retail outlet is an automated kiosk.

44. The system of claim 43, wherein the automated kiosk is an Automatic Teller Machine.

45. The system of claim 40, wherein the withdrawal code is printed on a piece of paper.