Token-Based Email Authentication for Login-Free Peer Payments
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronic payment systems require cumbersome web-based authentication processes, especially on mobile devices with unreliable internet connections, and lack the ability for individuals to easily send and receive payments without requiring multiple login steps or business integration.
Innovation Solution
A network-based system allowing registered individuals to send and receive payments via email using tokens, enabling one-click transactions for members and two-click transactions for non-members, without the need for business integration or multiple login steps.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If web-based authentication processes are used for electronic payments, then transaction security is improved, but user convenience and ease of operation deteriorate due to multiple login steps and internet connection requirements
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the authentication function from the web-based login process and embeds it directly into the email client. The email account itself becomes the authentication credential, eliminating the need for separate website logins while maintaining security through the email provider's authentication mechanisms.
Solution Approach 2:
The email account serves multiple functions: it acts as both the communication medium for transaction requests and the authentication credential for verifying user identity. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate authentication systems while improving ease of operation.
2Reliability
If business integration and account registration are required for payments, then transaction tracking and security are improved, but system complexity and setup time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The email account serves as a universal identifier that replaces multiple separate registrations with different payment services. The same email address used for communication also serves as the login credential and transaction identifier, eliminating redundant account creation processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The system leverages the user's existing email account infrastructure to provide payment functionality without requiring separate business integration or complex setup. The email client itself provides the authentication and transaction initiation capabilities.
3Ease of operation
If mobile devices are used for transactions, then accessibility and ease of operation are improved, but reliability deteriorates due to less reliable wireless internet access
Solution Approach 1:
The email server acts as an intermediary that handles the authentication and transaction processing. The mobile device only needs to send and receive emails through the email client, while the reliable email server infrastructure handles the secure transaction processing, reducing dependence on continuous mobile internet connectivity.
Data Source
AI summary
A system and method are disclosed for enabling secure and low-friction peer-to-peer financial transactions using email communication without requiring user login. A payment server receives an email message from a responder that includes a token embedded in a mailto hyperlink. The server extracts and decodes the token to retrieve transaction data, including the responder's email address and a transaction amount. The server authenticates the responder by comparing the email address extracted from the token with the sender address of the email. Upon successful validation, the server initiates a financial transaction with a payment processing system—without requiring the responder to access a login page, enter credentials, or navigate to a website. The invention improves upon conventional browser-based payment workflows by reducing user interaction and enhancing transaction efficiency and security.