Electronic payment management device, terminal program, and electronic payment management method

Abstract

This can improve user convenience. [Solution] If the first management unit 211 receives a registration from user U[k] regarding the use of the electronic account service after the electronic account service has been terminated, it resumes providing the electronic account service to user U[k]. If the first management unit 211 resumes providing the electronic account service to user U[k], the determination unit 213 determines whether there is a balance in user U[k]'s electronic account used for the electronic account service. If the determination result of the determination unit 213 is positive, the notification unit 214 notifies user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] of the history of electronic account usage before the electronic account service was terminated, based on information regarding user U[k]'s use of the electronic account service.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic payment management device, a program for a terminal, and an electronic payment management method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, there is known an information processing apparatus that guides a user through the cancellation procedure when receiving a cancellation of a contract from the user. For example, the information processing apparatus disclosed in Patent Document 1 guides the user through different cancellation procedures depending on whether the service for which cancellation is possible from the information processing apparatus is a first type of service or a second type of service for which cancellation is not possible when receiving a cancellation of a contract.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, when two types of services are linked, when the first service is canceled, the second service may be automatically canceled. For example, this is the case when a mobile communication service and an electronic account service related to electronic payment are linked. However, in the information processing apparatus of Patent Document 1, when the automatically canceled electronic account service is restarted, the user may not be able to refer to the usage history before the cancellation of the electronic account service, so there is a risk that the user may feel inconvenience.

[0005] The present invention has been made to solve the above problems and aims to improve the convenience for the user.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides an electronic payment management device comprising: a first management unit that, after a first service relating to an electronic payment of a user has been terminated without the user's request, receives registration from the user for the use of the first service, and resumes providing the first service to the user; a determination unit that, when the first management unit resumes providing the first service to the user, determines whether the status of the user's account used for the first service satisfies a first condition; and, if the determination result of the determination unit is affirmative, a notification unit that, based on first information relating to the user's use of the first service, notifies the user's terminal of the history of the account's use before the termination of the first service.

[0007] A preferred embodiment of the present invention provides an electronic payment management method in which, after a first service relating to a user's electronic payment has been terminated without the user's request, the method receives registration from the user for the use of the first service, resumes providing the first service to the user, determines whether the status of the user's account used for the first service satisfies a first condition, and if the result of the determination is affirmative, notifies the user's terminal of the history of the account's use before the termination of the first service, based on first information relating to the user's use of the first service. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the electronic payment management device and electronic payment management method of the present invention, user convenience can be improved. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] This diagram shows the overall configuration of an electronic payment management system, including an electronic payment management device, according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing an example of the configuration of a terminal device in Figure 1. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the second management server in Figure 1. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the first management server in Figure 1. [Figure 5] This figure shows an example of a screen for agreeing to the terms of service displayed on a terminal device. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of a screen displaying the deposit and withdrawal history on a terminal device before an electronic account service is automatically canceled. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of a screen displaying the deposit and withdrawal history on a terminal device after the use of the electronic account service has resumed. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of the operation of the processing unit of the second management server. [Figure 9] This figure shows an example of a screen displaying the payment history on a terminal device before an electronic account service is automatically canceled. [Figure 10] This figure shows an example of a screen displaying the payment history on a terminal device after the use of the electronic account service has resumed. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] 1. First Embodiment The configuration of the payment device according to the first embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to Figures 1 to 8.

[0011] 1.1. Configuration of the First Embodiment 1.1.1. Overall Structure Figure 1 shows the overall configuration of the electronic payment management system 1, which includes an electronic payment management device according to the first embodiment. The electronic payment management system 1 comprises a terminal device 10, a first management server 20, a second management server 30, and a communication network NET.

[0012] The terminal device 10 includes n terminal devices 10[1], 10[2], …, 10[k], …, 10[n]. Here, n is an arbitrary natural number, and k is an arbitrary natural number smaller than n. In this embodiment, the configurations of the terminal devices 10[1] to 10[n] are identical to each other. Note that the terminal device 10 may include terminal devices with different configurations.

[0013] The user who uses the terminal device 10[1] is user U[1], the user who uses the terminal device 10[2] is user U[2], the user who uses the terminal device 10[k] is user U[k], and the user who uses the terminal device 10[n] is user U[n]. When referring to an unspecified number of users or all users, the user is also denoted as user U. User U uses the electronic payment management service provided by the electronic payment management system 1 using the terminal device 10.

[0014] The terminal device 10 includes a personal computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, a smartwatch, etc.

[0015] The first management server 20 is a server managed by a payment service provider. Examples of payment service providers include electronic payment operators. In this embodiment, the case where the first management server 20 is a server managed by an electronic payment operator will be described as an example. In other words, in this embodiment, the electronic payment management service is provided by the first management server 20.

[0016] The electronic payment operator provides an electronic payment service. The electronic payment service may include, for example, a cashless payment service using a two-dimensional code, an electronic account service, and a point service according to the use of the electronic payment service. The electronic account service is a service related to electronic payment. When using the electronic account service, user U[k] registers user U[k]'s account. The electronic account service is an example of the first service.

[0017] The second management server 30 is a server managed by a communication service provider. Examples of communication service providers include telecommunications carriers. In this embodiment, the communication service provider provides a mobile communication service. User U[k] can use the mobile communication service by concluding a line contract for the mobile communication service. When using the mobile communication service, User U[k] registers the account of User U[k]. The mobile communication service is an example of the second service.

[0018] In this embodiment, the account for User U[k] to use the electronic account service and the account for User U[k] to use the mobile communication service are the same common account. For example, User U[k] can pay the usage fee of the mobile communication service via the electronic account service by using the same common account. The mobile communication service is linked with the electronic account service.

[0019] The communication network NET is a telecommunications line such as a mobile communication network managed by a communication carrier that provides a communication service. The communication network NET includes one or both of a wired communication network and a wireless communication network. For example, the communication network NET may be connected to another network (not shown) managed by another communication carrier via the Internet.

[0020] In the electronic payment management system 1, the terminal devices 10[1] to 10[n], the first management server 20, and the second management server 30 are communicably connected to each other via the communication network NET. The electronic payment management system 1 is a system that provides an electronic payment management service to any user who holds the terminal device 10.

[0021] 1.1.2. Configuration of Terminal Device Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the terminal device 10[k] in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, the terminal device 10[k] comprises a processing unit 11, a storage device 12, a communication device 13, a display device 14, an input device 15, and an imaging device 16. Each element of the terminal device 10[k] is interconnected by one or more buses for communicating information. The terminal device 10[k] is an example of a terminal.

[0022] The processing unit 11 is a processor that controls the entire terminal device 10[k], and is configured, for example, using one or more chips. The processing unit 11 is configured using a central processing unit (CPU) that includes, for example, interfaces with peripheral devices, arithmetic units, registers, etc. Some or all of the functions of the processing unit 11 may be implemented by hardware such as a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), PLD (Programmable Logic Device), FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array). The processing unit 11 executes various processes in parallel or sequentially.

[0023] The storage device 12 is a recording medium that can be read from and written to by the processing device 11. The storage device 12 includes, for example, non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory is, for example, ROM (Read Only Memory), EPROM (Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory), and EEPROM (Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory). Volatile memory is, for example, RAM (Random Access Memory).

[0024] The storage device 12 stores multiple programs, including the control program PR1 and the application program PRA, which are executed by the processing unit 11. The storage device 12 also functions as a work area for the processing unit 11.

[0025] Control program PR1 is a program that controls the entire processing unit 11. Application program PRA is a program for using all electronic payment services provided by service providers. Application program PRA can display the balance of an electronic account, display the history of deposits and withdrawals, perform deposit and withdrawal procedures, and make QR code payments. When using merchant-presented QR code payments, it is necessary to read the QR code displayed at the merchant using an imaging device (not shown) provided in the terminal device 10[k].

[0026] The communication device 13 is hardware that acts as a transmitting and receiving device for communicating with other devices. The communication device 13 is also called, for example, a network device, network controller, network card, or communication module. The communication device 13 may be equipped with a connector for wired connection and an interface circuit corresponding to the connector. The communication device 13 may also be equipped with a wireless communication interface. Examples of connectors and interface circuits for wired connection include products compliant with wired LAN, IEEE1394, and USB. Examples of wireless communication interfaces include products compliant with wireless LAN and Bluetooth®.

[0027] The display device 14 is a device that displays images and text information. The display device 14 displays various images based on control by the processing device 11. For example, various display panels such as liquid crystal panels and organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) panels are preferably used as the display device 14.

[0028] The input device 15 accepts operations from user U[1]. For example, the input device 15 is configured to include a pointing device such as a keyboard, touchpad, touch panel, or mouse. If the input device 15 is configured to include a touch panel, it may also function as the display device 14.

[0029] The processing unit 11 functions as a receiving unit 111, an acquisition unit 112, and a display control unit 113, for example, by reading and executing the control program PR1 from the storage device 12.

[0030] The reception unit 111 receives various operations from user U[k] to the application program PRA via the input device 15. For example, the reception unit 111 receives an operation from user U[k] to view the balance of an electronic account.

[0031] The acquisition unit 112 acquires various information from the first management server 20 via the communication device 13. For example, the acquisition unit 112 acquires the usage history of the electronic account before the electronic account service was terminated, as notified by the first management server 20.

[0032] The display control unit 113 causes the display device 14 to display various images. The display control unit 113 displays the usage history of the electronic account before the electronic account service was terminated, which was acquired by the acquisition unit 112, on the display device 14.

[0033] 1.1.3. Configuration of the Second Management Server Figure 3 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the second management server 30 in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 3, the second management server 30 comprises a processing unit 31, a storage device 32, and a communication device 33. Each element of the second management server 30 is interconnected by one or more buses for communicating information.

[0034] The processing unit 31 is a processor that controls the entire second management server 30, and is configured, for example, using one or more chips. The processing unit 31 is configured, for example, using a central processing unit (CPU) that includes interfaces with peripheral devices, an arithmetic unit, and registers. Some or all of the functions of the processing unit 31 may be implemented by hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, FPGA, etc. The processing unit 31 executes various processes in parallel or sequentially.

[0035] The storage device 32 is a recording medium that can be read from and written to by the processing device 21. The storage device 32 includes, for example, non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory is, for example, ROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. Volatile memory is, for example, RAM.

[0036] The storage device 32 stores multiple programs, including the control program PR3 for execution by the processing unit 31, and the contract information database DB1. The storage device 32 also functions as a work area for the processing unit 31.

[0037] The communication device 33 is hardware that acts as a transmitting and receiving device for communicating with other devices. The communication device 33 is also called, for example, a network device, network controller, network card, or communication module. The communication device 33 may be equipped with a connector for wired connection and an interface circuit corresponding to the connector. The communication device 33 may also be equipped with a wireless communication interface. Examples of connectors and interface circuits for wired connection include products compliant with wired LAN, IEEE1394, and USB. Examples of wireless communication interfaces include products compliant with wireless LAN and Bluetooth®.

[0038] The processing unit 31 functions as a receiving unit 311, a management unit 312, and a notification unit 313, for example, by reading and executing the control program PR3 from the storage device 32.

[0039] The reception unit 311 receives requests from user U[k] regarding contracts for mobile communication services.

[0040] The management unit 312 manages contract information related to the mobile communication service contract with user U[k]. The contract information includes the mobile communication service plan, service details such as options, information about the network, and user U[k]'s personal information. The management unit 312 stores information related to the contract with user U[k] in the contract information database DB1 according to the request from user U[k] received by the reception unit 311. The management unit 312 updates the contract information database DB1 each time it receives a request from user U[k] regarding their contract.

[0041] Cancellation of mobile communication services includes line cancellation, MNP (Mobile Number Portability) port-out, cooling-off period, and name change. When the mobile communication service is cancelled, the account of user U[k] registered at the time of contracting the mobile communication service becomes invalid. Since the account used to use the electronic account service is the same as the account registered at the time of contracting the mobile communication service, when the mobile communication service is cancelled, the account used to use the electronic account service also becomes invalid at the same time.

[0042] If user U[k] cancels their mobile communication service, the notification unit 313 notifies the first management server 20 that user U[k] has canceled their mobile communication service.

[0043] 1.1.4. Configuration of the First Management Server Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example configuration of the first management server 20 in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 4, the first management server 20 comprises a processing unit 21, a storage device 22, and a communication device 23. Each element of the first management server 20 is interconnected by one or more buses for communicating information. The first management server 20 is an example of an electronic payment management device.

[0044] The processing unit 21 is a processor that controls the entire first management server 20, and is configured, for example, using one or more chips. The processing unit 21 is configured, for example, using a central processing unit (CPU) that includes interfaces with peripheral devices, an arithmetic unit, and registers. Some or all of the functions of the processing unit 21 may be implemented by hardware such as a DSP, ASIC, PLD, FPGA, etc. The processing unit 21 executes various processes in parallel or sequentially.

[0045] The storage device 22 is a recording medium that can be read from and written to by the processing device 21. The storage device 22 includes, for example, non-volatile memory and volatile memory. Non-volatile memory is, for example, ROM, EPROM, and EEPROM. Volatile memory is, for example, RAM.

[0046] The storage device 22 stores multiple programs, including the control program PR2, which is executed by the processing unit 21. The storage device 22 also functions as a work area for the processing unit 21.

[0047] The communication device 23 is hardware that acts as a transmitting and receiving device for communicating with other devices. The communication device 23 is also called, for example, a network device, network controller, network card, or communication module. The communication device 23 may have a connector for wired connection and an interface circuit corresponding to the connector. The communication device 23 may also have a wireless communication interface. Examples of connectors and interface circuits for wired connection include products compliant with wired LAN, IEEE1394, and USB. Examples of wireless communication interfaces include products compliant with wireless LAN and Bluetooth®.

[0048] The processing unit 21 functions as a first management unit 211, a second management unit 212, a determination unit 213, and a notification unit 214, for example, by reading and executing the control program PR2 from the storage device 22.

[0049] When the first management unit 211 receives information from the second management server 30 that user U[k] has canceled their mobile communication service, it automatically cancels user U[k]'s electronic account service. In other words, if user U[k] cancels their mobile communication service, the first management unit 211 cancels user U[k]'s electronic account service without any request from user U[k].

[0050] Electronic payment is a payment method available to user U[k] through the application program PRA of terminal device 10[k]. Electronic payment services include payments using QR codes, deposits into electronic accounts, withdrawals from electronic accounts to other accounts, payment of utility bills, online investments, sending and receiving points, etc.

[0051] The electronic account service provides services such as online payments and money transfers using a prepaid virtual account. User U[k] can make payments and bills within the limits of the amount deposited into the virtual account.

[0052] The mobile communication service is a service that connects a user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] to the internet wirelessly via a radio station operated by a telecommunications carrier. The mobile communication service is a service that is linked to the electronic account service.

[0053] If the account for using the electronic account service expires due to the automatic cancellation of the electronic account service, user U[k] will need to log in to the electronic account service again using their previous account in order to use the electronic account service again.

[0054] User U[k] registers an account to use the electronic account service, for example, through the application program PRA installed on terminal device 10[k]. More specifically, User U[k] logs in to the electronic account service using User U[k]'s account. To begin using the electronic account service, User U[k] must agree to the terms of service for the electronic account service.

[0055] Figure 5 shows an example of a screen for accepting the terms of service displayed on terminal device 10[k]. As shown in Figure 5, the display device 14 of terminal device 10[k] displays screen SC1 showing the terms of service. Specifically, the display device 14 displays the main text of the terms of service TX1, an agreement checkbox CB1, and a confirmation button B01. User U[k] reads the main text of the terms of service TX1, and if they agree to the terms of service, they check the agreement checkbox CB1 and tap the confirmation button B01.

[0056] As a result, consent information is transmitted from terminal device 10[k] to the first management server 20. The consent information is information indicating that user U[k] agrees to the terms of service. In other words, the consent information is an example of "information indicating that a user agrees to the terms of service."

[0057] The first management unit 211 obtains consent information via the communication device 23. When the first management unit 211 obtains consent information, it accepts user U[k]'s registration for the use of the electronic account service. If the first management unit 211 accepts user U[k]'s registration for the use of the electronic account service after the electronic account service has been automatically canceled, it resumes providing the electronic account service to user U[k]. Therefore, user U[k] can use the electronic account service by agreeing to the terms of use for the electronic account service displayed on the display device 14 when logging in to the electronic account service.

[0058] The First Management Unit 211 manages the balance of User U[k]'s electronic account at the time of automatic cancellation as a deposit, linked to User U[k]'s account information, when the electronic account service is automatically canceled for User U[k]. A deposit is money temporarily held by the electronic payment service provider for assets that should be converted to User U[k]. If User U[k]'s electronic account balance is zero at the time of automatic cancellation, no deposit will be generated. An electronic account is an example of an account.

[0059] The first management unit 211 will deposit the held funds into user U[k]'s electronic account when it resumes providing electronic account services to user U[k].

[0060] The second management unit 212 continues to manage the account information that user U[k] uses to log in to the electronic account service, even after the first management unit 211 automatically terminates the electronic account service for user U[k]. As described above, when the electronic account service is automatically terminated, the account used to log in to the electronic account service becomes invalid. However, in order to enable user U[k] to log in to the electronic account service again after the account becomes invalid, the second management unit 212 continues to manage the account information even after the automatic termination.

[0061] The determination unit 213 determines whether the status of user U[k]'s electronic account used for the electronic account service satisfies the first condition when the first management unit 211 resumes providing the electronic account service to user U[k]. More specifically, the first condition is, for example, that user U[k]'s electronic account used for the electronic account service has a balance. That is, the determination unit 213 determines whether user U[k]'s electronic account has a balance when the first management unit 211 resumes providing the electronic account service to user U[k].

[0062] The notification unit 214 notifies user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] of a screen related to the electronic account service based on the first information. The first information is information regarding user U[k]'s use of the electronic account service.

[0063] If the determination result of the determination unit 213 is positive, the notification unit 214 notifies user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] of the history of electronic account usage before the electronic account service was automatically terminated, based on the first information. On the other hand, if the determination result of the determination unit 213 is negative, the notification unit 214 does not notify user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] of the history of electronic account usage before the electronic account service was automatically terminated.

[0064] The first piece of information includes the history of deposits and withdrawals to and from the electronic account. Therefore, if the determination result of the determination unit 213 is positive, the notification unit 214 notifies the user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] of the history of deposits and withdrawals to and from the electronic account based on the first piece of information.

[0065] Note that the terms of service text TX1, the consent checkbox CB1, and the confirmation button B01 displayed on screen SC1 in Figure 5 are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiment shown in Figure 5. The consent checkbox CB1 may remain grayed out until the entire text of the terms of service text TX1 is scrolled to display. Graying out indicates an inactive state, excluding it from the user U[k]'s actions. Furthermore, the consent checkbox CB1 may be omitted.

[0066] Figure 6 shows an example of a screen displaying the deposit and withdrawal history on the terminal device 10[k] before the electronic account service is automatically canceled. As shown in Figure 6, the display device 14 of the terminal device 10[k] displays the first screen SC2 of the history list.

[0067] The history list displays the switch tab TA0, balance D01, and deposit / withdrawal details L01. The switch tab TA0 includes the "Payment" tab TA1, the "Deposit / Withdrawal" tab TA2, and the "Points" tab TA3. The user U[k] can select one of the three tabs from the "Payment" tab TA1, the "Deposit / Withdrawal" tab TA2, and the "Points" tab TA3 by tapping the switch tab TA0. In Figure 6, the "Deposit / Withdrawal" tab TA2 is selected. Therefore, the history list displays information about the deposit and withdrawal history.

[0068] Balance D01 displays the balance of the electronic account. In the example shown in Figure 6, the balance of the electronic account is 756 yen. In other words, in this example, user U[k] has a balance in their electronic account. Deposit and withdrawal details L01 displays the history of deposits and withdrawals along with the date on which they occurred. In the example shown in Figure 6, all history for February 2024 is displayed, regardless of whether it is a deposit or a withdrawal. Figure 6 shows that a withdrawal of 568 yen was made on February 27th.

[0069] Figure 7 shows an example of a screen displaying the deposit and withdrawal history on terminal device 10[k] after the use of the electronic account service has resumed. As shown in Figure 7, the display device 14 of terminal device 10[k] displays the second screen SC3 of the history list. In Figure 7, it is assumed that the electronic account service was automatically canceled on February 27 and the use of the electronic account service resumed on February 28.

[0070] The history list displays the switch tab TA0, balance D02, and deposit / withdrawal details L02. The switch tab TA0 is set to the "Deposits / Withdrawals" tab TA2, as in Figure 6. Therefore, the history list displays information about deposit and withdrawal history.

[0071] Balance D02 displays the balance of the electronic account. In the example shown in Figure 7, the balance of the electronic account is 756 yen. Since there was a balance in the electronic account before the electronic account service was automatically canceled, the balance of the electronic account after the use of the electronic account service is resumed will be the balance from before the electronic account service was automatically canceled.

[0072] The deposit and withdrawal statement L02 displays the history of deposits and withdrawals along with the date on which they occurred. In the example shown in Figure 7, the deposit and withdrawal statement L02 displays the deposit and withdrawal history L02a before the electronic account service was automatically closed, and the deposit and withdrawal history L02b after the use of the electronic account service was resumed.

[0073] The deposit and withdrawal history L02a before the electronic account service was automatically closed is displayed below the "Transfer History" display DI1, along with the dates of the deposits and withdrawals. The history displayed below the "Transfer History" display DI1 is the same as the deposit and withdrawal history shown in Figure 6. The deposit and withdrawal history L02b after the electronic account service has been reactivated is displayed above the "Transfer History" display DI1, along with the dates of the deposits and withdrawals. As shown in Figure 7, 756 yen is deposited into the electronic account at 9:00 AM on February 28th, the day after the electronic account service was automatically closed, thereby transferring the balance from before the electronic account service was automatically closed.

[0074] As can be seen from Figure 7, the first information includes the history of deposits and withdrawals to and from the electronic account. If the determination result of the determination unit 213 is positive, the notification unit 214 notifies the user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] in an identifiable manner, based on the first information, of the history of deposits and withdrawals before the electronic account service was automatically terminated and the history of deposits and withdrawals after the use of the electronic account service was resumed. The display control unit 113 of the terminal device 10[k] displays the history of deposits and withdrawals before the electronic account service was automatically terminated and the history of deposits and withdrawals after the use of the electronic account service was resumed on the display device 14 in an identifiable manner.

[0075] In this embodiment, the deposit and withdrawal history L02a before the electronic account service is automatically terminated is displayed below the deposit and withdrawal history L02b after the use of the electronic account service is resumed, but the display order may be reversed. The important thing is that the deposit and withdrawal history L02a before the electronic account service is automatically terminated and the deposit and withdrawal history L02b after the use of the electronic account service is resumed are displayed in a way that allows for identification.

[0076] 1.2. Operation of the first management server according to the first embodiment 1.2.1. Operation of the processing unit 21 Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the processing unit 21 of the first management server 20. The operation of the processing unit 21 will be explained below with reference to Figure 8.

[0077] In step S11, the processing unit 21, by functioning as the first management unit 211, determines whether or not user U[k]'s mobile communication service has been terminated.

[0078] If user U[k]'s mobile communication service has not been canceled, that is, if the determination result in step S11 is negative, the processing unit 21 terminates this routine. In other words, if user U[k]'s mobile communication service has not been canceled, the processing unit 21 does not execute the processes from step S12 to step S19.

[0079] On the other hand, if user U[k]'s mobile communication service has been canceled, that is, if the determination result in step S11 is positive, the processing unit 21 will function as the first management unit 211 in step S12 to automatically cancel user U[k]'s electronic account service.

[0080] In step S13, the processing unit 21 functions as a determination unit 213 to determine whether or not there is a balance in user U[k]'s electronic account.

[0081] If user U[k] has a balance in their electronic account, that is, if the determination result in step S13 is positive, the processing unit 21, in step S14, functions as the first management unit 211 to manage the balance in user U[k]'s electronic account as a deposit. More specifically, the processing unit 21, by functioning as the first management unit 211, manages the balance in user U[k]'s electronic account at the time of automatic cancellation as a deposit, in association with user U[k]'s account information.

[0082] On the other hand, if user U[k]'s electronic account has no balance, that is, if the determination result in step S13 is negative, the processing unit 21 does not execute the process in step S14.

[0083] In step S15, the processing unit 21, functioning as the first management unit 211, determines whether or not it has accepted registration for the use of the electronic account service after the electronic account service has been automatically terminated.

[0084] If the electronic account service is automatically canceled and no registration for using the electronic account service is accepted, that is, if the determination result in step S15 is negative, the processing unit 21 terminates this routine. In other words, if the electronic account service is automatically canceled and no registration for using the electronic account service is accepted, the processing unit 21 does not execute the processes from steps S16 to S19.

[0085] If, after an electronic account service has been automatically canceled, a registration for the use of the electronic account service is accepted, that is, if the determination result in step S15 is positive, the processing unit 21 will resume providing the electronic account service in step S16 by functioning as the first management unit 211.

[0086] In step S17, the processing unit 21 functions as a determination unit 213 to determine whether the status of the electronic account satisfies the first condition, that is, whether there is a balance in user U[k]'s electronic account at the time of automatic cancellation.

[0087] If there is a balance in user U[k]'s electronic account at the time of automatic cancellation, that is, if the determination result in step S17 is positive, the processing unit 21, in step S18, functions as the first management unit 211 and deposits the deposit into user U[k]'s electronic account.

[0088] In step S19, the processing unit 21 functions as a notification unit 214 to display the deposit and withdrawal history before the electronic account service was automatically terminated on the terminal device 10[k], and then terminates this routine.

[0089] On the other hand, if there is no balance in user U[k]'s electronic account at the time of automatic cancellation, that is, if the determination result in step S17 is negative, the processing unit 21 terminates this routine without executing the processes in steps S18 and S19. Therefore, in this case, the history of automatic deposits and withdrawals by the electronic account service is not displayed on the terminal device 10[k].

[0090] 1.3. Effects of the First Embodiment According to the above description, the first management server 20 according to the first embodiment comprises a first management unit 211, a notification unit 214, and a determination unit 213. If the first management unit 211 receives registration from user U[k] regarding the use of the electronic account service after the electronic account service has been terminated without a request from user U[k], it resumes providing the electronic account service to user U[k].

[0091] The notification unit 214 notifies user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] of a screen related to the electronic account service based on the first information. The first information is information regarding user U[k]'s use of the electronic account service. The determination unit 213 determines whether the status of user U[k]'s electronic account used for the electronic account service satisfies the first condition if the first management unit 211 resumes providing the electronic account service to user U[k].

[0092] If the determination result of the determination unit 213 is positive, the notification unit 214 notifies the user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] of the history of electronic account usage before the electronic account service was terminated, based on the first information.

[0093] According to this embodiment, after the electronic account service is terminated without a request from user U[k], among multiple users for whom the provision of the electronic account service has been resumed, the usage history of the electronic account before the termination of the electronic account service is notified to user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] for users U[k] whose electronic account status satisfies the first condition. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0094] Furthermore, the termination of the electronic account service without a request from user U[k] occurs when user U[k] terminates the mobile communication service linked to the electronic account service. The first condition is that there is a balance in user U[k]'s electronic account used for the electronic account service.

[0095] According to this embodiment, even if the electronic account service is automatically terminated due to user U[k] canceling the mobile communication service, if there is a balance in user U[k]'s electronic account used for the electronic account service, the terminal device 10[k] will be notified of the usage history of the electronic account before the electronic account service was automatically terminated. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0096] Furthermore, the first information includes the history of deposits and withdrawals to and from the electronic account. If the determination result of the determination unit 213 is positive, the notification unit 214 notifies the user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] of the history of deposits and withdrawals to and from the electronic account based on the first information.

[0097] According to this embodiment, the history of deposits and withdrawals to and from the electronic account is displayed on the terminal device 10[k] as a history of the use of the electronic account, thereby improving the convenience for the user U[k].

[0098] Furthermore, the first management server 20 according to the first embodiment further includes a second management unit 212. The second management unit 212 continues to manage the account information for user U[k] to log in to the electronic account service even after the electronic account service has been terminated. The notification unit 214 notifies user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] of the terms of use for the electronic account service if user U[k] accesses the electronic account service using the account information after the electronic account service has been terminated. The first management unit 211 accepts user U[k]'s registration for use of the electronic account service when it has obtained consent information. The consent information is information indicating that user U[k] agrees to the terms of use.

[0099] According to this embodiment, after the electronic account service is terminated, user U[k] can easily access the electronic account service. In order to use the electronic account service again, user U[k] must agree to the terms of service. Therefore, after the electronic account service is terminated, the history of electronic account usage before the termination of the electronic account service will not be displayed on user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] without user U[k]'s consent.

[0100] Furthermore, if the electronic account service is terminated for user U[k], the first management unit 211 manages the balance of user U[k]'s electronic account at the time of termination as a deposit, associated with user U[k]'s account information. When the provision of the electronic account service to user U[k] is resumed, the first management unit 211 deposits the deposit into user U[k]'s electronic account.

[0101] In this configuration, the balance of the electronic account in the terminated electronic account service is not lost, thus protecting the assets of user U[k].

[0102] The first piece of information includes the date and time of use of the electronic account service. If the determination result of the determination unit 213 is positive, the notification unit 214 notifies the user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] in an identifiable manner, based on the first piece of information, of the history of use of the electronic account before the electronic account service was terminated and the history after the use of the electronic account service was resumed.

[0103] According to this embodiment, the history of electronic account usage before the electronic account service was terminated and the history after the use of the electronic account service was resumed can be easily identified, thereby improving the convenience for user U[k].

[0104] Furthermore, the program for the terminal device 10[k] according to the first embodiment causes the processing unit 11 of the terminal device 10[k] to function as an acquisition unit 112 and a display control unit 113. The processing unit 11 communicates with the first management server 20. The acquisition unit 112 acquires the history of electronic account usage before the electronic account service, which is notified by the notification unit 214, is terminated. The display control unit 113 displays the history acquired by the acquisition unit 112 on the display device 14 of the terminal device 10[k].

[0105] According to this embodiment, after an electronic account service is terminated without a request from user U[k], among multiple users U for whom the provision of the electronic account service has been resumed, the usage history of the electronic account before the termination of the electronic account service is notified to user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] for users U[k] whose electronic account status satisfies the first condition. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0106] Furthermore, the electronic payment management method according to the first embodiment includes the following processes. First process: If the electronic account service is terminated without a request from user U[k], and then user U[k] registers for the use of the electronic account service, the provision of the electronic account service to user U[k] will be resumed. Second process: If the provision of electronic account services to user U[k] is resumed, it is determined whether the status of user U[k]'s electronic account used for the electronic account services satisfies the first condition. Third process: If the result of the determination is positive, the terminal device 10[k] of user U[k] is notified of the history of use of the electronic account before the electronic account service was terminated, based on the first information regarding user U[k]'s use of the electronic account service.

[0107] According to this embodiment, after the electronic account service is terminated without a request from user U[k], among multiple users for whom the provision of the electronic account service has been resumed, the usage history of the electronic account before the termination of the electronic account service is notified to user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] for users U[k] whose electronic account status satisfies the first condition. Therefore, user convenience can be improved.

[0108] 2. Variations This disclosure is not limited to the embodiments illustrated above. Specific variations are illustrated below. Two or more embodiments may be arbitrarily selected from the following examples and combined. Furthermore, the embodiments described above and the variations described below can be combined arbitrarily as long as they do not contradict each other.

[0109] 2.1. Variation 1 In the first embodiment, an example was shown in which the deposit and withdrawal history is displayed on the terminal device 10[k] of user U[k], but the settlement history may also be displayed on the terminal device 10[k] of user U[k]. Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a screen in which the settlement history is displayed on the terminal device 10[k] before the electronic account service is automatically canceled. As shown in Figure 9, the display device 14 of the terminal device 10[k] displays the third screen SC4 of the history list.

[0110] The history list displays the switching tab TA0 and the transaction details L11. The switching tab TA0 includes the "Payment" tab TA1, the "Deposits and Withdrawals" tab TA2, and the "Points" tab TA3. In Figure 9, the "Payment" tab TA1 is selected. Therefore, the history list displays information about the transaction details.

[0111] The usage details L11 display the usage history along with the date of use. In the example shown in Figure 9, transactions for February 2024 are displayed. Figure 9 shows that on February 27th, there was a payment of 5,400 yen for electricity and a payment of 512 yen for shopping at convenience store D.

[0112] Figure 10 shows an example of a screen displaying the payment history on the terminal device 10[k] after the use of the electronic account service has resumed. As shown in Figure 10, the display device 14 of the terminal device 10[k] displays the fourth screen SC5 of the history list.

[0113] The history list displays the switch tab TA0 and the transaction details L12. As in Figure 9, the "Payment" tab TA1 is selected in the switch tab TA0. Therefore, the history list displays information about the transaction details.

[0114] The transaction details L12 displays the transaction history along with the date of the transaction. In the example shown in Figure 10, the transaction details L12 displays the transaction history L12a before the electronic account service was automatically canceled, and the transaction history L12b after the electronic account service was resumed.

[0115] The usage history L12a before the electronic account service was automatically canceled is displayed below the "Transfer History" display DI2, along with the date of use. The history displayed below the "Transfer History" display DI2 is the same as the usage history shown in Figure 9. The usage history L12b after the electronic account service has been resumed is displayed above the "Transfer History" display DI2, along with the date of use.

[0116] As can be seen from Figure 10, the first information includes the settlement history for the electronic account. If the determination result of the determination unit 213 is positive, the notification unit 214 notifies the user U[k]'s terminal device 10[k] of the settlement history for the electronic account based on the first information.

[0117] According to this embodiment, the settlement history for the electronic account is notified to the terminal device 10[k] as a history of the use of the electronic account, thereby improving the convenience of the user U[k].

[0118] In this modified example, the transaction history L12a before the electronic account service was automatically terminated is displayed below the transaction history L12b after the electronic account service was resumed, but the display order may be reversed. The important thing is that the transaction history of the electronic account before the electronic account service was automatically terminated and the transaction history after the electronic account service was resumed are displayed in a way that allows for identification.

[0119] Furthermore, in this modified version, the electronic account balance is not displayed, but the electronic account balance may be displayed along with the payment history.

[0120] 2.2. Variation Example 2 Furthermore, although the first embodiment showed an example in which the deposit and withdrawal history is displayed on the terminal device 10[k] of user U[k], the terminal device 10[k] of user U[k] may also display a history of points awarded or used in the point service.

[0121] 2.3. Variation 3 The termination of the electronic account service without a request from user U[k] is not limited to automatic termination due to the termination of the mobile communication service linked via the common account. Other cases in which the electronic account service may be terminated without a request from user U[k] include, for example, when user U[k] uses MNP (Mobile Number Portability) to switch from the mobile communication service linked via the common account to a mobile communication service of another carrier. Similarly, when user U[k] uses MNP to switch from a mobile communication service of another carrier to a mobile communication service that can be linked via the common account.

[0122] Furthermore, cases in which the electronic account service is terminated without a request from user U[k] include cases where the telephone number associated with the linked mobile communication service is stored or released from storage. The same applies when multiple accounts are merged, when the name on the linked mobile communication service is changed, or when the account member name is changed.

[0123] 3. Others (1) In the embodiments described above, the storage devices 12, 22, and 32 are exemplified by ROM and RAM, but can also be flexible disks, magneto-optical disks (e.g., compact disks, digital multipurpose disks, Blu-ray® disks), smart cards, flash memory devices (e.g., cards, sticks, key drives), CD-ROMs (Compact Disc-ROMs), registers, removable disks, hard disks, floppy® disks, magnetic strips, databases, servers, and other suitable storage media. The program may also be transmitted from a network via a telecommunications line. The program may also be transmitted from a communication network NET via a telecommunications line.

[0124] (2) In the embodiments described above, the information, signals, etc. may be represented using any of the various different techniques. For example, the data, instructions, commands, information, signals, bits, symbols, chips, etc. that may be mentioned throughout the above description may be represented by voltage, current, electromagnetic waves, magnetic fields or magnetic particles, optical fields or photons, or any combination thereof.

[0125] (3) In the embodiments described above, the input and output information may be stored in a specific location (e.g., memory) or managed using a management table. The input and output information may be overwritten, updated, or appended to. The output information may be deleted. The input information may be transmitted to other devices.

[0126] (4) In the embodiments described above, the determination may be made by a value represented using 1 bit (0 or 1), by a boolean value (true or false), or by a numerical comparison (for example, a comparison with a predetermined value).

[0127] (5) The processing procedures, sequences, flowcharts, etc., exemplified in the embodiments described above may be rearranged in order, as long as they do not contradict each other. For example, the methods described in this disclosure present various step elements using an exemplary order and are not limited to the specific order presented.

[0128] (6) Each function illustrated in Figures 1 to 10 is implemented by any combination of at least one of hardware and software. Furthermore, the method of implementing each functional block is not particularly limited. That is, each functional block may be implemented using one device that is physically or logically coupled, or it may be implemented using two or more physically or logically separated devices that are directly or indirectly connected (for example, using wired or wireless connections). A functional block may also be implemented by combining the above one device or the above multiple devices with software.

[0129] (7) The programs illustrated in the embodiments described above should be broadly interpreted to mean instructions, instruction sets, code, code segments, program code, programs, subprograms, software modules, applications, software applications, software packages, routines, subroutines, objects, executable files, execution threads, procedures, functions, etc., whether they are called software, firmware, middleware, microcode, hardware description languages ​​or by other names.

[0130] Furthermore, software, instructions, information, etc., may be transmitted and received via a transmission medium. For example, if software is transmitted from a website, server, or other remote source using at least one of wired technology (such as coaxial cable, fiber optic cable, twisted pair, or digital subscriber line (DSL)) and wireless technology (such as infrared or microwave), then at least one of these wired and wireless technologies is included in the definition of a transmission medium.

[0131] (8) In each of the above-mentioned forms, the terms “system” and “network” shall be used interchangeably.

[0132] (9) The information, parameters, etc. described in this disclosure may be expressed using absolute values, relative values ​​from a given value, or other corresponding information.

[0133] (10) In the embodiments described above, the terminal device 10 may be a mobile station (MS). A mobile station may also be referred to by those skilled in the art as a subscriber station, mobile unit, subscriber unit, wireless unit, remote unit, mobile device, wireless device, wireless communication device, remote device, mobile subscriber station, access terminal, mobile terminal, wireless terminal, remote terminal, handset, user agent, mobile client, client, or several other appropriate terms. In this disclosure, terms such as “mobile station,” “user terminal,” “user equipment (UE),” and “terminal” may be used interchangeably.

[0134] (11) In the embodiments described above, the terms “connected,” “coupled,” or any variation thereof, mean any direct or indirect connection or coupling between two or more elements, and may include the presence of one or more intermediate elements between two elements that are “connected” or “coupled” with each other. The coupling or connection between elements may be a physical coupling or connection, a logical coupling or connection, or a combination thereof. For example, “connection” may be reinterpreted as “access.” As used in this disclosure, two elements may be considered to be “connected” or “coupled” with each other using at least one of one or more wires, cables and printed electrical connections, and, in some non-limiting and non-exclusive examples, electromagnetic energy having wavelengths in the radio frequency domain, microwave domain and optical (both visible and invisible) domain.

[0135] (12) In the embodiments described above, the phrase “based on” does not mean “based solely on” unless otherwise specified. In other words, the phrase “based on” means both “based solely on” and “based at least on.”

[0136] (13) The terms “determining” and “determining” as used in this disclosure may encompass a wide variety of actions. “Determining” may include, for example, judging, calculating, computing, processing, deriving, investigating, looking up, searching, inquiry (e.g., searching in a table, database or other data structure), and ascertaining. “Determining” may also include, for example, receiving (e.g., receiving information), transmitting (e.g., sending information), input, output, and accessing (e.g., accessing data in memory). Furthermore, "judgment" and "decision" can include considering something as having been "judged" or "decided" after resolving, selecting, choosing, establishing, comparing, etc. In other words, "judgment" and "decision" can include considering something as having been "judged" or "decided" after some action. Also, "judgment (decision)" can be reinterpreted as "assuming," "expecting," or "considering."

[0137] (14) Where the terms “include,” “including,” and variations thereof are used in the embodiments described above, these terms are intended to be inclusive, as is the term “comprising.” Furthermore, the term “or” as used in this disclosure is not intended to be exclusive OR.

[0138] (15) In the present disclosure, if articles are added by translation, such as a, an, and the in English, the present disclosure may include the fact that the noun following these articles is plural.

[0139] (16) In this disclosure, the term “A and B are different” may mean “A and B are different from each other.” The term may also mean “A and B are each different from C.” Terms such as “separate” and “combine” may be interpreted in the same way as “different.”

[0140] (17) Each aspect / embodiment described herein may be used individually, in combination, or switched between as needed in practice. Furthermore, notification of certain information (e.g., notification that "X is") is not limited to explicit notification, but may also be implicit (e.g., by not providing such notification).

[0141] Although the present disclosure has been described in detail above, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that the present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments described herein. The present disclosure can be implemented in modified and altered forms without departing from the intent and scope of the present disclosure as defined by the claims. Accordingly, the descriptions in the present disclosure are illustrative and not restrictive in any way. [Explanation of symbols]

[0142] 1...Electronic payment management system, 10,10[1],10[2],10[k],10[n]...Terminal device, 20...First management server, 30...Second management server, 112...Acquisition unit, 113...Display control unit, 211...First management unit, 212...Second management unit, 213...Determination unit, 214...Notification unit, L01,L02...Deposit and withdrawal details, L02a,L12a...History of electronic account usage before the electronic account service was automatically canceled, L02b,L12b...History after the use of the electronic account service was resumed, L11,L12...Usage details, SC1,SC2,SC3,SC4,SC5...Screen, TX1...Text of the terms of service, U[1],U[2],U[k],U[n]...User.

Claims

1. If the first service related to a user's electronic payment is terminated without the user's request, and the first management department accepts the user's registration for the first service, the first management department will resume providing the first service to the user. When the first management unit resumes providing the first service to the user, a determination unit determines whether the status of the user's account used for the first service satisfies the first condition, If the determination result of the determination unit is positive, the notification unit notifies the user's terminal of the history of account usage before the first service was terminated, based on the first information regarding the user's use of the first service. An electronic payment management device equipped with the following features.

2. The termination of the first service without a request from the user occurs when the user terminates the second service, which is linked to the first service. The first condition is that there is a balance in the user's account used for the first service. The electronic payment management device according to claim 1.

3. The first information includes the history of deposits and withdrawals to the account, If the determination result of the determination unit is positive, the notification unit notifies the user's terminal of the deposit and withdrawal history to the account based on the first information. The electronic payment management device according to claim 1.

4. The first information includes the settlement history for the account, If the determination result of the determination unit is positive, the notification unit notifies the user's terminal of the settlement history for the account based on the first information. The electronic payment management device according to claim 1.

5. The system includes a second management unit that continues to manage the account information used by the user to log in to the first service, even after the first service has been terminated. If the user accesses the first service using the account information after the first service has been terminated, the notification unit will notify the user of the terms of service for the first service on the user's terminal. When the first management unit obtains information indicating that the user agrees to the terms of use, it accepts the user's registration for the use of the first service. The electronic payment management device according to claim 1.

6. The aforementioned First Management Department, If the first service is terminated, the balance of the user's account at the time of termination will be managed as a deposit in association with the user's account information. When the provision of the first service to the user is resumed, the deposit will be deposited into the user's account. The electronic payment management device according to claim 1.

7. The first information includes the date and time of use of the first service, If the determination result of the determination unit is positive, the notification unit notifies the user's terminal, in an identifiable manner, of the history of account usage before the termination of the first service and the history after the resumption of use of the first service, based on the first information. The electronic payment management device according to claim 1.

8. The processing device of the terminal that communicates with the electronic payment management device described in claim 1, An acquisition unit that acquires the usage history of the account before the cancellation of the first service notified by the notification unit, As a display control unit that displays the history acquired by the acquisition unit on the display device of the terminal, The program for the terminal that will function.

9. If the first service related to a user's electronic payment is terminated without the user's request, and then the user registers for the first service, the provision of the first service to the user will be resumed. When the provision of the first service to the user is resumed, it is determined whether the status of the user's account used for the first service satisfies the first condition. If the result of the above determination is affirmative, based on the first information regarding the user's use of the first service, the history of the account usage before the first service was terminated is notified to the user's terminal. Electronic payment management methods.

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