SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR PROOF-VIEW VIA BLOCKCHAIN

Abstract

A view proof verification system is disclosed. The view proof verification system has a view proof verification module with computer executable code stored in a non-volatile memory and a processor. The view proof verification module and the processor are configured to receive a content viewing request to view a content piece, record the content viewing data in a database chunk, hash the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, append the hashed database chunk to a block on a blockchain of the view proof verification system, and compare the content viewing data with the block on the blockchain. The blockchain is publicly available.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Patent Application No. 16 / 023,354, filed June 29, 2018, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 627,285, filed February 7, 2018, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 660,167, filed April 19, 2018, which are incorporated by reference in their entireties.

[0002] The present disclosure relates to an automated system and method for providing (e.g., ensuring) the integrity of online content views. Embodiments of the present invention generate and secure Proof of View (PoV) for content by leveraging blockchain to verify the accuracy of content views. Generating Proof of View for content can be used to determine the integrity of content provider channel values, and thus content trading quotes, or channel stake markets (CSMs). [Background technology]

[0003] Currently, views on large platforms are unreliable and often faked. Views are primarily used to assess and measure traffic on content providers' sites, which are then used to derive site sponsorship and revenue. If views are faked, altered, or manipulated, the economics of the content provider are biased. In particular, the Google and Facebook models rely on view counting, and content providers are compensated entirely on view counts, even if the majority of the counted views do not exist.

[0004] Currently, there is no effective technology for transparent verification of views. The integrity and transparency of views determines the value of a content provider's channel. In the absence of a system for verifying the integrity of views, advertisers and content providers are tasked with the difficult task of determining the actual value of a channel.

[0005] Thus, there is a need in the art for a system and method for determining the integrity of a content provider's channel value and therefore the integrity of content trading quotes. The disclosed exemplary systems and methods are directed to overcoming one or more of the above-mentioned shortcomings and / or other deficiencies in existing technology. Summary of the Invention

[0006] In one exemplary embodiment, the present disclosure is directed to a browsing proof verification system. The browsing proof verification system includes a browsing proof verification module having computer executable code stored in a non-volatile memory, and a processor. The browsing proof verification module and the processor are configured to receive a content browsing request to browse a content piece, record the content browsing data in a database chunk, hash the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, append the hashed database chunk to a block on a blockchain of the browsing proof verification system, and compare the content browsing data with the block on the blockchain. The blockchain is publicly available.

[0007] In another aspect, the disclosure is directed to a method. The method includes receiving a channel stake sale request in a channel stake marketplace, determining a value of the channel, generating a stake offering based on the value of the channel, and updating the value of the channel. Determining the value of the channel includes determining an aggregate amount of verified content views for the channel. Determining the aggregate amount of verified content views for the channel includes recording the content view data in a database chunk, hashing the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, appending the hashed database chunk to a block on the blockchain, and comparing the content view data to the block on the blockchain.

[0008] Attached hereto are a collection of drawings of exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure. Those skilled in the art will understand that these are merely exemplary embodiments and that additional and alternative embodiments may exist and fall within the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as described herein. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary computing device, in accordance with at least some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. [Diagram 2] 1 is a schematic diagram of an exemplary network, in accordance with at least some exemplary embodiments of the present invention. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a diagram of an exemplary hashing of a chunk database used with a PoV blockchain according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary method for providing proof-of-view over a blockchain, according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Diagram 5] FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary methodology for providing a channel stake marketplace leveraging proof-of-view over a blockchain according to an embodiment of the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] According to embodiments of the present invention, the exemplary systems and methods described herein serve to ensure the integrity and transparency of online content viewing in order to determine the value of a content provider's channel. A Proof of View (PoV) methodology is used to provide a transparent system for determining the integrity of such viewing.

[0011] According to embodiments of the present invention, the view evidence is used in a system for determining the integrity of content provider channel values, and thereby the integrity of offered content trading quotes. In at least some exemplary embodiments, to ensure accurate and transparent view evidence, the system implements publicly auditable logs. These logs may include, for example, data associated with the viewing of content, content recommendations, anonymous information about users who viewed the content, other relevant data points, or any combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous data points that may be used in embodiments of the present invention, and that embodiments of the present invention are intended for use with any suitable data points.

[0012] In one embodiment of the present invention, a Merkle hash tree is used to minimize the amount of data stored while still maintaining the assurance that the database has not been altered. In a hash tree, each lookup is hashed before being combined with other hashes until a final top hash is reached. Each top hash may represent all of the data stored in a particular log of data. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are many methods for hashing chunks of data, and that embodiments of the present invention are intended for use with any suitable method for hashing and storing chunks of data.

[0013] Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are many hashing algorithms that may be used in embodiments of the present invention, and that embodiments of the present invention are intended for use with any suitable hashing algorithm.

[0014] In an exemplary embodiment of the present invention, the system uses a database that is divided into chunks. In this exemplary embodiment, a new chunk may be created each time a new block is created in the PoV blockchain. The head hash of the current chunk is added to each new block in the PoV blockchain. An exemplary embodiment is shown, for example, in FIG. 3. In alternative embodiments, the entire database may be a single file, or the entire database may be stored in the blockchain. In yet further embodiments, the database may be published to the PoV blockchain less frequently than blocks are created. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous ways to format and record a database in a blockchain, and that embodiments of the present invention are intended for use with any suitable format and recording method.

[0015] In at least some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the entire database may be stored on the blockchain. Each viewing log entry may be stored on the blockchain as an individual transaction or data entry. Viewing log entry transactions may also serve as viewing reward transfer transactions. Viewing log entries may be published to the blockchain by viewers and / or systems, such that no party may censor the log entries. Also, for example, an entire PoV chunk may be stored on the blockchain as a single transaction or data entry. In still further embodiments, the database may be published to the PoV blockchain less frequently than blocks are created. Any suitable technique may be used to format and record the database on the blockchain. The exemplary embodiments disclosed herein may be used with any suitable format and / or recording method.

[0016] In at least some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system may be configured to use advanced methods to ensure that only views verified by the PoV methodology are counted. According to these embodiments, views deemed verified are added to a publicly accessible database that contains anonymous data about the views. In alternative embodiments, the system may be configured with open source tools to ensure the transparency and accountability of the system. Using these tools, users and third parties may review the data to ensure accuracy and authenticity of the data. While the browsing data may be anonymous, individual users may generate their own unique IDs and verify that the views recorded for their IDs are accurate and not manipulated. According to these embodiments, some or substantially all of the browsing data may be sent to both the verification system and the server hosting the content to ensure that the data stored in the publicly accessible PoV database reflects the actual correct data. This allows the system to automatically verify that the data on the server's browsing database is accurate and has not been altered. In some embodiments of the present invention, the system further comprises an application that automatically verifies that the views in the blockchain are verified and match those in the public database. If any corruption or alteration of the data is detected, an alert notification may be automatically provided by the system. In this manner, the system prevents numerous ways in which users may attempt to manipulate view counts and viewer metrics, such as, for example, (i) automatic repeated viewing of videos (loop viewing), (ii) attempts to load multiple videos in parallel, (iii) video loading in hidden windows / tabs, and (iv) attempts to manipulate analytics without actually watching the video. Alternatively, in at least some exemplary embodiments, the disclosed exemplary PoV database may be stored using a computing device, such as those described herein with respect to Figures 1 and 2.For example, a computing device such as that described herein with respect to Figures 1 and 2 may enable or block (disable) unfettered access to the exemplary PoV database and credential-of-view data disclosed.

[0017] In at least some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system provides an internal trading quote for stakes in a content channel. This allows content creators / publishers to fund further growth and development of their content through the sale of stakes and future content offerings in their channels. According to embodiments of the present invention, creators / publishers may sell their channel involvement to stakeholders at a price set by the creator / publisher. The sale may be in cryptocurrency, fractional ownership offerings, or other currency or similar offerings. In at least some exemplary embodiments, participation in a channel may provide channel stakeholders with an equal share of future revenues based on their ownership of the channel. In certain instances, channel stakeholders may resell their stakes via a content trading quote based on the current market value of the stakes. As with other markets (e.g., securities markets), there may be limitations or restrictions on transfers based on one or more pre-set rules. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous rules and restrictions that may be used, and that embodiments of the present invention are intended for use with any suitable rules or restrictions.

[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the current market value of the channel's stake is calculated by the system. In at least some exemplary embodiments of the present invention, the system calculates the value of the channel's stake by taking into account one or more data points selected from the group including, but not limited to, the verified views (PoV) of the content, the channel's revenue stream, a recommendation engine, and other key parameters. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous key parameters and other data points that may be used in calculating the value of the channel's stake, and that embodiments of the present invention are intended for use with any such data points and key parameters. In effect, the quotes provided by the system act similarly to online spot exchange quotes where buyers may bid / offer and set a cap on the purchase / sale of available stakes in an exchange rate index.

[0019] Referring now to FIG. 1, a diagrammatic representation of a computing device suitable for use in an embodiment of the system of the present disclosure is shown. The computing device 100 may generally be comprised of a central processing unit (CPU, 101), optional additional processing units including a graphics processing unit (GPU), random access memory (RAM, 102), a motherboard 103, or alternatively / additionally a storage medium (e.g., hard disk drive, solid state drive, flash memory, cloud storage), an operating system (OS, 104), one or more application software 105, a display element (e.g., monitor, capacitive touch screen) 106, and one or more input / output devices / means 107, including one or more communication interfaces (e.g., RS232, Ethernet, Wifi, Bluetooth, USB). Useful examples include, but are not limited to, personal computers, servers, tablet PCs, smartphones, or other computing devices. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, multiple computing devices may be operatively linked to form a computer network to distribute and share one or more resources, such as clustered computing devices and server banks / farms.

[0020] Various examples of such general-purpose multi-unit computer networks suitable for embodiments of the present disclosure, their typical configurations, and numerous standardized communication links, are well known to those skilled in the art, as further explained and illustrated by FIG. 2 below.

[0021] According to exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, data may be transferred to the system, stored by the system, and / or transferred by the system across a local area network (LAN) or wide area network (WAN). According to such embodiments, the system may be comprised of a number of servers, mining hardware, computing devices, or any combination thereof, communicatively connected across one or more LANs and / or WANs. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous ways in which the system may be configured, and that embodiments of the present disclosure are intended for use with any configuration.

[0022] Referring to Figure 2, a schematic diagram of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. The system is comprised of one or more servers 203 for electronically storing information used by the system. Applications in the servers 203 may retrieve and manipulate information in storage devices and exchange information over a WAN 201 (e.g., the Internet). Applications in the servers 203 may also be used to manipulate remotely stored information and analyze remotely stored data across the WAN 201 (e.g., the Internet).

[0023] According to an exemplary embodiment, as shown in FIG. 2, the exchange of information over the WAN 201 or other network may occur over one or more high-speed connections. In some cases, the high-speed connections may be over-the-air (OTA) connections passed through a networked system, directly connected to the WAN(s) 201, or directed through one or more routers 202. The router(s) 202 are entirely optional, and other embodiments of the present disclosure may or may not use the router(s) 202. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous ways in which the server 203 may connect to the WAN 201 to exchange information, and that the embodiments of the present disclosure are intended for use with any method for connecting to a network to exchange information. Additionally, although the present application refers to high-speed connections, the embodiments of the present disclosure may be used with any speed connection.

[0024] The components or modules of the system may connect to the server 203 over the WAN 201 or other network in a number of ways. For example, the components or modules may connect to the system i) by a computing device 212 directly connected to the WAN 201, ii) by computing devices 205, 206 connected to the WAN 201 through a routing device 204, or iii) by computing devices 208, 210 connected to a wireless access point 207. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous ways in which the components or modules may connect to the server 203 over the WAN 201 or other network, and that embodiments of the present disclosure are intended for use with any method for connecting to the server 203 over the WAN 201 or other network. Additionally, the server 203 may be comprised of a personal computing device, such as a smartphone, that acts as a host for other computing devices to connect to.

[0025] The communication means of the system may be any circuit or other means for communicating data over one or more networks, or to one or more peripheral devices attached to the system, or to a system module or component. Suitable communication means may include, but are not limited to, wireless connections, wired connections, cellular connections, data port connections, Bluetooth connections, near field communication (NFC) connections, or any combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous communication means that may be used with embodiments of the present disclosure, and that embodiments of the present disclosure are intended for use with any communication means.

[0026] The disclosed exemplary systems and methods may be used in any suitable application for providing Proof of View (PoV) of online content. For example, the disclosed exemplary systems and methods may be used in any suitable application to ensure that content, such as, for example, Internet content available on the Internet, has actually been viewed by a user, such as, for example, a consumer. The disclosed exemplary systems and methods may be used, for example, in any application where providing a PoV (e.g., verifying that a user has actually viewed the content) affects the reputation or compensation (e.g., based on advertising revenue tied to the number of times a user views the content) for a given website or platform.

[0027] Referring now to FIG. 4, an exemplary method for providing proof of viewing via a blockchain is illustrated, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The process begins at 400 by a system engaged in providing a PoV for one or more online content pieces. In step 402, the system receives a content viewing event, typically via a user's request to view the content piece. The content may be any form of textual, graphical, multimedia, or other audio / visual or other digital or analog work. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are many types of content that may be used with embodiments of the present invention, and that embodiments of the present invention are intended for use with any suitable type of content. Exemplary content viewing as disclosed may include content viewed using any desired web browser (e.g., Google's Chrome, Apple's Safari, Microsoft's Internet Explorer, Mozilla's Firefox, Opera, or any other suitable web browser). Exemplary content viewing as disclosed may also include content viewed using any suitable application programming interface (API) or app, such as, for example, a mobile device app, a web app, a hybrid app, or any other suitable type of app. The disclosed exemplary content viewing may further include content being viewed on any suitable device, such as, for example, a smart television or any other suitable type of streaming device.

[0028] In step 404, the content views are recorded by the system and associated with the system in that the system provides for mining and recording of transactions (e.g., views) in the system's associated blockchain. The view records may be digitally signed by the viewer and / or the system. In an exemplary embodiment of the invention, the chunk of the database in which the views may be recorded is then hashed (step 406). Any suitable digital signature scheme may be used with exemplary embodiments of the invention, and exemplary embodiments of the invention may be used with any suitable type of digital signature.

[0029] At step 408, at the next entry of a block on the blockchain, each of the hashed database chunks is appended to a block on the blockchain ledger. At this point, each recorded view can be verified whenever the PoV blockchain is available for review. Because the data is stored in a distributed manner, any third party can attest that each initial hash added to the PoV blockchain is accurate and unaltered. This allows any third party to verify that the logs added in each new block on the blockchain have not been tampered with, changed, forked, or branched. At this point, the process ends at step 410.

[0030] 5, a diagram of an exemplary method for providing a channel stake marketplace leveraging proof-of-view over a blockchain is shown, according to an embodiment of the present invention. The process begins at step 500 by a user executing a channel stake sale request. At step 502, the system receives the stake sale request and parses information in the request for use in generating a stake offering. Information associated with the request may include, but is not limited to, the size of the stake offered for sale (e.g., the total amount in fiat, cryptocurrency, or other rewards desired from the sale, or the maximum percentage of the channel to offer for sale).

[0031] At step 504, the system generates a value for the channel involved in the stake offering. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the value of the channel may be based on the number of verified content views retrieved from the system or the PoV blockchain associated with the channel. Other data points may be used to generate this value, including, but not limited to, the growth rate of the channel, the number of subscribers to the channel, the history of the channel and the stake offering, or any combination thereof. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are numerous data points that may be used with embodiments of the present invention to determine the value of a channel, and that embodiments of the present invention are intended for use with any suitable data points.

[0032] At step 506, the system generates a stake offering based at least in part on the channel value and / or information associated with the request. Once generated, the system offers the generated stake offering for sale to users (step 508). At step 510, the stake offering may be purchased.

[0033] If the stake is not purchased, the system re-offers the stake. In certain embodiments, before re-offering the stake, the stake offering may be recalculated in one or more respects, for example, by recalculating the selling price of each share in the channel or reassessing the channel value.

[0034] Once a staking offering is successfully subscribed to, the system issues the associated stake to those who invested or otherwise purchased the channel's stake (step 512). Rights and proceeds may then be transferred to the purchasing users as specified in the staking offering.

[0035] As stakes are issued to various purchasers, in step 514, the system continues to monitor and update the channel value. Users who have purchased stakes may offer their stake shares for sale to others, as permitted by the rules of the stake offering. Typically, this offering will be at a current value priced by the system, although in other embodiments the system may allow for more complex trading instruments (e.g., offers, options). At this point, the process ends in step 516.

[0036] In at least some exemplary embodiments, an exemplary view proof verification system may include a view proof verification module comprising computer executable code stored in a non-volatile memory, and a processor. The view proof verification module and processor may be configured to receive a content viewing request to view a content piece, record the content viewing data in a database chunk, hash the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, append the hashed database chunk to a block on the blockchain of the view proof verification system, and compare the content viewing data to the block on the blockchain. The blockchain may be public. The blockchain may be available for review by any third party. Each initial hash added to the blockchain may be auditable by any third party. Each new block added to the blockchain may be auditable by any third party. The content piece may be textual data, graphical data, multimedia data, audio data, and / or visual data. The content viewing may be an internet web page viewing. The view proof verification system may include multiple parties involved in mining and recording transactions in the blockchain. The proof-of-view verification module and processor may be configured to provide a unique ID to a user, where the unique ID is associated with data on the blockchain corresponding to the user's content viewing data. The user may use the unique ID to ensure (e.g., compare) that the data on the blockchain corresponding to the user's content viewing data is accurate. The proof-of-view verification system may automatically compare the content viewing data with blocks on the blockchain. The proof-of-view verification system may automatically provide an alert notification if the content viewing data does not match the blocks. The proof-of-view verification system may be decoupled (e.g., substantially completely decoupled) from any entity or party. For example, the proof-of-view verification system may be a decentralized financial system that may operate without a central financial entity.The view proof verification system may use smart contracts on a blockchain, similar to the disclosed exemplary blockchains, e.g., as described herein. For example, the view proof verification system may use distributed applications using a blockchain, e.g., as described herein, to perform financial functions. In at least some exemplary embodiments, the view proof verification system may use smart contracts on a blockchain to capture, verify, and validate (e.g., enforce) contract terms agreed upon between multiple parties. The view proof verification system may thereby provide for agreements and transactions to be made between entities (e.g., anonymous entities) without the use of a central entity or external legal enforcement. For example, the view proof verification system may enable smart contract data to be encrypted and reside on a blockchain (e.g., data recorded on a blockchain cannot be altered, lost, or deleted).

[0037] In at least some exemplary embodiments, an exemplary method may include receiving a channel stake sale request in a channel stake marketplace, determining a value for the channel, generating a stake offering based on the value of the channel, and updating the value of the channel. Determining the value of the channel may include determining an aggregate of verified content views for the channel. Determining the aggregate of verified content views for the channel may include recording content view data in a database chunk, hashing the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, appending the hashed database chunk to a block on the blockchain, and comparing the content view data to the block on the blockchain. The value of the channel may be based on the number of verified content views retrieved from the blockchain. The exemplary method may also include issuing channel stakes to users who purchase channel stakes based on the stake offering. The value of the channel may be based on data points such as, for example, a growth rate of the channel, a number of subscribers for the channel, a history of the channel, and / or a history of the stake offering. Updating the value of the channel may include determining an updated aggregate of verified content views for the channel.

[0038] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the method may include receiving a content viewing request to view a content piece, recording the content viewing data in a database chunk, hashing the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, appending the hashed database chunk to a block on the blockchain, and comparing the content viewing data to the block on the blockchain. The content viewing may be an Internet webpage viewing. The exemplary method may further include providing a unique ID to a user, the unique ID being associated with data on the blockchain corresponding to the user's content viewing data. The user may use the unique ID to ensure (e.g., compare) that the data on the blockchain corresponding to the user's content viewing data is accurate.

[0039] In at least some exemplary embodiments, a disclosed exemplary view proof verification system may include a view proof verification module comprising computer executable code stored in a non-volatile memory, a processor, and a plurality of computing devices. The view proof verification module, the processor, and the plurality of computing devices may be configured to receive a channel stake sale request, determine a value of the channel, generate a stake offering based on the value of the channel, and update the value of the channel. Determining the value of the channel may include determining an aggregate amount of verified content views for the channel. Determining an aggregate amount of verified content views may include transferring data of the content pieces between the plurality of computing devices. Determining an aggregate amount of verified content views for the channel may include providing unique ID data to a user, recording content viewing data corresponding to the transferred data of the content pieces in a database chunk, hashing the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, appending the hashed database chunk to a block on the blockchain, and comparing the content viewing data to the block on the blockchain by determining whether the unique ID data is included in both the content viewing data and the block. The blockchain may be publicly accessible via a third-party computing device. The proof-of-view verification module, the processor, and the plurality of computing devices may also be configured to issue channel stakes to users who purchase channel stakes based on the stake offering and employ smart contracts on the blockchain. The blockchain may be available for review by any third party. Each top hash added to the blockchain may be auditable by any third party. Each new block added to the blockchain may be auditable by any third party. The data of the content piece may be selected from the group consisting of textual data, graphical data, multimedia data, audio data, and visual data.The verified content viewing may be selected from the group of internet web page viewing, app viewing, streaming device viewing including smart TV viewing, and combinations thereof. The transfer of data of the content pieces between the multiple computing devices may include streaming video data between the multiple computing devices over a local area network or a wide area network. The proof-of-view verification system may include multiple parties involved in mining and recording transactions in the blockchain. The proof-of-view verification module, the processor, and the multiple computing devices may be configured to compare the content viewing data with the unique ID data to ensure that data on the blockchain corresponding to the user's content viewing data is accurate. The proof-of-view verification system may automatically compare the content viewing data with blocks on the blockchain. The proof-of-view verification system may provide an alert notification if the content viewing data does not include the unique ID data.

[0040] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the disclosed exemplary method may include receiving a channel stake sale request, determining a value of the channel, generating a stake offering based on the value of the channel, and updating the value of the channel. Determining the value of the channel may include determining an aggregate of verified content views for the channel. Determining an aggregate of verified content views may include transferring data of the content piece between a plurality of computing devices. Determining an aggregate of verified content views for the channel may include providing unique ID data to the user, recording content viewing data corresponding to the transferred data of the content piece in a database chunk, hashing the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, appending the hashed database chunk to a block on the blockchain, and comparing the content viewing data to the block on the blockchain by determining whether the unique ID data is included in both the content viewing data and the block. The blockchain may be public and accessible via a third party computing device. The disclosed exemplary method may also include issuing channel stakes to users who purchase channel stakes based on the stake offering, and using smart contracts on the blockchain. The value of the channel may be based on a number of verified content views retrieved from the blockchain. The value of the channel may be based on a data point selected from the group consisting of a growth rate of the channel, a number of subscribers to the channel, a history of the channel, and a history of stake offerings. Updating the value of the channel may include determining an updated total of verified content views for the channel.

[0041] In at least some exemplary embodiments, the disclosed exemplary method may include receiving a channel stake sale request, determining a value of the channel, generating a stake offering based on the value of the channel, and updating the value of the channel. Determining the value of the channel may include determining an aggregate of verified content views for the channel. Determining an aggregate of verified content views may include transferring data of the content piece between a plurality of computing devices. Determining an aggregate of verified content views for the channel may include providing unique ID data to the user, recording the content viewing data corresponding to the transferred data of the content piece in a database chunk, hashing the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, appending the hashed database chunk to a block on the blockchain, and comparing the content viewing data to the block on the blockchain by determining whether the unique ID data is included in both the content viewing data and the block. The disclosed exemplary method may also include issuing a channel stake to a user who purchases a channel stake based on the stake offering. The blockchain may be public and accessible via a third party computing device. The content viewing data may be stored on a computing device that blocks public access to the content viewing data. The value of the channel may be based on the number of verified content views retrieved from the blockchain. The value of the channel may be based on a data point selected from the group consisting of the growth rate of the channel, the number of subscribers to the channel, the history of the channel, and the history of stake offerings.

[0042] The disclosed exemplary systems and methods may provide an efficient technique for verifying content viewing, e.g., internet content that may be viewed by an internet user. For example, the disclosed exemplary systems and methods may provide a transparent technique for a user to use a public ledger to verify whether the online content was actually viewed. The disclosed exemplary systems and methods may thereby provide an effective technique for determining the value of a content provider's channel (e.g., for advertising or other criteria-based rewards that depend on how much a given content is viewed by a user, e.g., a consumer). For example, the disclosed exemplary systems and methods may verify whether an intended target audience actually viewed a given provider's content (e.g., along with advertisements that may accompany the content).

[0043] Conventionally, a computer program comprises a finite sequence of computational instructions or program instructions. It is understood that a program apparatus or computing device may receive such a computer program and process the computational instructions to produce a technical effect.

[0044] A programmable apparatus or computing device includes one or more microprocessors, microcontrollers, embedded microcontrollers, programmable digital signal processors, programmable devices, programmable gate arrays, programmable array logic, memory devices, application specific integrated circuits, etc., that may be suitably utilized or configured to process computer program instructions, execute computer logic, store computer data, etc. It is understood that a computing device may include a computer readable storage medium, and that this medium may be internal or external, removable and replaceable, or fixed. It is also understood that a computing device may include a basic input / output system (BIOS), firmware, operating system, databases, etc., that may include or assist in interfacing with the software and hardware described herein.

[0045] Embodiments of the systems as described herein are not limited to applications involving conventional computer programs or programmable devices operating thereon. For example, it is contemplated that embodiments of the present disclosure as claimed herein may include optical computers, quantum computers, analog computers, and the like.

[0046] Regardless of the type of computer program or computing device involved, the computer program may be loaded into a computing device to create a specific machine capable of performing any and all of the indicated functions, and this specific machine (or its network configuration) provides the technology for performing any and all of the indicated functions.

[0047] Any combination of one or more computer readable medium(s) may be used. The computer readable medium may be a computer readable signal medium or a computer readable storage medium. The computer readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electronic, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any suitable combination of the above. Typical examples of computer readable storage media may include an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable computer diskette, a hard disk, a random access memory (RAM), a read only memory (ROM), an erasable programmable read only memory (EPROM or flash memory), an optical fiber, a portable compact disk read only memory (CD-ROM), an optical storage device, a magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination of the above. In the context of this document, a computer readable storage medium may be any tangible medium that can contain or store a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0048] The data store may be comprised of a database, a file storage system, a relational data storage system, or any other data system or structure configured to store data. The data store may be a relational database that cooperates with a relational database management system (RDBMS) to receive, process, and store data. The data store may include one or more databases for storing information related to processing of travel and quote information, and one or more databases configured to store and retrieve travel and quote information.

[0049] The computer program instructions may be stored in a computer readable memory that can cause a computer or other programmable data processing apparatus to function in a particular manner. The instructions stored in the computer readable memory constitute an article of manufacture that includes computer readable instructions for performing any and all of the specified functions.

[0050] A computer-readable signal medium may include a propagated data signal in which computer-readable program code is embedded, for example in baseband or as part of a carrier wave. Such a propagated signal may be in any of a variety of forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic, optical, or any suitable combination thereof. A computer-readable signal medium is not a computer-readable storage medium but may be any computer-readable medium that can convey, propagate, or carry a program for use by or in connection with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device.

[0051] The program code embodied in the computer readable medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, fiber optic cable, RF, etc., or any suitable combination of the above.

[0052] Elements depicted in flowchart and block diagrams throughout the figures show logical boundaries between elements. However, in accordance with software or hardware engineering approaches, the depicted elements and their functions may be implemented as part of a monolithic software structure, as stand-alone software components or modules, or as components or modules using external routines, code, services, etc., or any combination thereof. All such implementations are within the scope of the present disclosure. In view of the above, it will be understood that the elements of the block and flow diagrams correspond to combinations of means for performing the described functions, combinations of steps for performing the described functions, program instruction techniques for performing the described functions, etc.

[0053] It is understood that computer program instructions may include computer executable code. Various languages ​​are contemplated for expressing computer program instructions, including but not limited to C, C++, Java, JavaScript, assembly language, Lisp, HTML, Perl, and the like. Such languages ​​may include assembly languages, hardware description languages, database programming languages, functional programming languages, imperative programming languages, and the like. In some embodiments, computer program instructions may be stored, compiled, or interpreted to operate on computing devices, programmable data processing apparatus, heterogeneous combinations of processors or processor architectures, and the like. An embodiment of a system as described herein may take the form of web-based computer software, including but not limited to client / server software, software-as-a-service, peer-to-peer software, and the like.

[0054] In some embodiments, a computing device enables the execution of computer program instructions including multiple programs or threads. The multiple programs or threads may be processed nearly simultaneously to increase processor utilization and facilitate nearly simultaneous functionality. For execution, any and all methods, program codes, program instructions, etc. described herein may be executed in one or more threads. The threads spawn other threads, which may themselves be assigned associated priorities. In some embodiments, the computing device may process these threads based on priority or any other order based on instructions provided in the program code.

[0055] Unless expressly stated otherwise or clear from the context, the verbs "process" and "execute" are used interchangeably to refer to running, processing, interpreting, compiling, assembling, linking, loading, any and all combinations of the above, etc. Thus, embodiments that process computer program instructions, computer-executable code, or the like, may suitably execute instructions or code in any and all of the manners discussed above.

[0056] The functions and operations presented herein are not inherently related to any particular computing device or other apparatus. Various general-purpose systems may be used with programs according to the teachings herein, or it may prove convenient to construct specialized apparatus to perform the required method steps. The required structure for a variety of these systems, along with equivalent variations, will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Additionally, embodiments of the present disclosure are not described with reference to any particular programming language. A variety of programming languages ​​may be used to implement the teachings of the present disclosure as described herein, and any reference to a particular language is provided to disclose possible and best modes of implementing embodiments of the present disclosure. Embodiments of the present disclosure are suitable for a wide variety of computer network systems across a multitude of topologies. In the art, the configuration and management of large networks includes storage devices and computing devices communicatively coupled to different types of computing devices and storage devices via a network, such as the Internet, also referred to as the "web" or "world wide web".

[0057] Throughout this disclosure and elsewhere, block diagrams and flowchart diagrams illustrate methods, apparatus (e.g., systems), and computer program products. Each element of the block diagrams and flowchart diagrams, and each combination of elements within the block diagrams and flowchart diagrams, illustrates functions of the methods, apparatus, and computer program products. Any and all such functions ("illustrated functions") may be performed by computer program instructions, by a dedicated hardware-based computer system, by a combination of dedicated hardware and computer instructions, by a combination of general-purpose hardware and computer instructions, and the like, any and all of which may be referred to generally herein as "components," "modules," or "systems."

[0058] While the above drawings and description set forth functional aspects of the disclosed system, the specific software configurations for implementing these functional aspects should not be inferred from these descriptions unless expressly stated or apparent from the context.

[0059] Each element in the flow chart diagram may represent a step or group of steps of a computer-implemented method. Furthermore, each step may include one or more sub-steps. For purposes of illustration, these steps (as well as any and all other steps identified and described above) are presented in sequence. It is understood that embodiments may include alternative orders of steps adapted to a particular application of the technology disclosed herein. All such variations and modifications are intended to fall within the scope of the present disclosure. The depiction and description of steps in any particular order is not intended to exclude embodiments having steps in a different order unless necessary for a particular application, unless expressly stated, or otherwise clear from the context.

[0060] The functions, systems, and methods described herein may be used and presented in a number of languages. Individual systems may be presented in one or more languages, and the language may be easily changed at any point in the processes or methods described above. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are a number of languages ​​in which the systems may be provided, and that embodiments of the present disclosure are intended for use in any language.

[0061] Although multiple embodiments are disclosed, other embodiments of the present disclosure will also become apparent to those skilled in the art from this detailed description. There may be aspects of the present disclosure that can be practiced without implementing some features as described. It should be understood that some details have not been described in detail so as not to obscure the focus of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is susceptible to countless modifications in various obvious aspects, all of which do not depart from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. Thus, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

Claims

1. A browsing proof verification system, comprising: a browsing credential verification module comprising computer executable code stored in a non-volatile memory; A processor; Multiple computing devices and the browsing credential verification module, the processor, and the plurality of computing devices, Receive a request to sell your channel stake; determining a value for said channel; generating a stake offering based on the value of the channel; updating the value of the channel; wherein determining the value of the channel includes determining an aggregate of verified content views of the channel; wherein determining the aggregate amount of verified content views includes transferring data of the content pieces between the plurality of computing devices; wherein determining the total verified content views for the channel includes providing a unique ID to a user; recording content viewing data corresponding to the transfer data of the content piece in a database chunk; hashing the database chunk into a hashed database chunk; appending the hashed database chunk to a block on a blockchain; and comparing the content viewing data to the block on the blockchain by determining whether the unique ID data is included in both the content viewing data and the block; wherein the blockchain is publicly accessible and accessible via a third party computing device; issuing the stake in the channel to users who purchase the stake in the channel based on the stake offering; Using smart contracts on the blockchain The browsing proof verification system is configured as follows.

2. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the blockchain is available for review by any third party.

3. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein each initial hash added to the blockchain is auditable by any third party.

4. 3. The system of claim 2, wherein each new block added to the blockchain is auditable by any third party.

5. 2. The system of claim 1, wherein the data of the piece of content is selected from the group consisting of textual data, graphical data, multimedia data, audio data, and visual data.

6. The browsing credential verification system of claim 1 , wherein the verified content views are selected from the group of internet web page views, app views, streaming device views including smart television views, and combinations thereof.

7. The viewing credential verification system of claim 1 , wherein transferring the data of the content pieces between the plurality of computing devices comprises streaming video data between the plurality of computing devices over a local area network or a wide area network.

8. The browsing proof verification system of claim 1 , wherein the browsing proof verification system includes multiple parties involved in mining and recording transactions in the blockchain.

9. 2. The browsing proof verification system of claim 1, wherein the browsing proof verification module, the processor, and the plurality of computing devices are configured to compare the content viewing data with the unique ID data to ensure that the data on the blockchain corresponding to the user's content viewing is accurate.

10. The viewing proof verification system of claim 1 , wherein the viewing proof verification system automatically compares the content viewing data with the blocks on the blockchain.

11. The browsing credential verification system of claim 9 , wherein the browsing credential verification system provides an alert notification if the content viewing data does not include the unique ID data.

12. receiving a channel stake sale request; determining a value for said channel; generating a stake offering based on the value of the channel; updating the value of the channel; and wherein determining the value of the channel includes determining an aggregate of verified content views of the channel; wherein determining the total amount of verified content views includes transferring data of the content pieces between a plurality of computing devices; wherein determining the total verified content views for the channel includes providing unique ID data to a user, recording content viewing data corresponding to the transfer data of the content piece in a database chunk, hashing the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, appending the hashed database chunk to a block on a blockchain, and comparing the content viewing data to the block on the blockchain by determining whether the unique ID data is included in both the content viewing data and the block; wherein the blockchain is publicly accessible and accessible via a third party computing device; issuing the stake in the channel to users who purchased the stake in the channel based on the stake offering; Using smart contracts on the blockchain; A method for providing the above.

13. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the value of the channel is based on a number of verified content views retrieved from the blockchain.

14. 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the value of the channel is based on data points selected from the group consisting of a growth rate of the channel, a number of subscribers to the channel, a history of the channel, and a history of stake offerings.

15. The method of claim 12 , wherein updating the value of the channel includes determining an updated total of verified content views for the channel.

16. receiving a channel stake sale request; determining a value for said channel; generating a stake offering based on the value of the channel; updating the value of the channel; and wherein determining the value of the channel includes determining an aggregate of verified content views of the channel; wherein determining the total amount of verified content views includes transferring data of the content pieces between a plurality of computing devices; wherein determining the total verified content views for the channel includes providing unique ID data to a user, recording content viewing data corresponding to the transfer data of the content piece in a database chunk, hashing the database chunk into a hashed database chunk, appending the hashed database chunk to a block on a blockchain, and comparing the content viewing data to the block on the blockchain by determining whether the unique ID data is included in both the content viewing data and the block; issuing the stake in the channel to users who purchased the stake in the channel based on the stake offering; A method for providing the above.

17. 20. The method of claim 16, wherein the blockchain is publicly available and accessible via a third party computing device.

18. The method of claim 16 , wherein the content viewing data is stored on a computing device that blocks public access to the content viewing data.

19. 20. The method of claim 16, wherein the value of the channel is based on a number of verified content views retrieved from the blockchain.

20. 17. The method of claim 16, wherein the value of the channel is based on data points selected from the group consisting of a growth rate of the channel, a number of subscribers to the channel, a history of the channel, and a history of stake offerings.

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