Method, apparatus and computer program product for processing cashless payments

Abstract

A computer program product and programmed method for performing cashless payments between a customer and a dealer via a bank. The invention is embodied in an on-line computerized process between customer and dealer to define the payment method, check the availability frame, issue a voucher to describe the transaction, issue a payment instruction, signature of the issued voucher by the dealer and signature of the payment instruction by the dealer and the customer. In another embodiment, the information is gathered and the voucher and payment instructions are generated off-line. A subsequent on-line process between the dealer and bank transfer the signed payment instruction and signed voucher to the bank where computer coded checks the dealer and customer signature, checks the allocation between payment instruction and voucher, replaces the dealer and customer identity data with information for performance of the payment instruction, and performs the payment instruction and stores the voucher. An advantage of the process is that no sensitive customer data such as account number, credit card number etc. is stored on the customer card and hence misuse by unauthorized persons is minimized. In addition the process serves to define the payment methods required by the customer for mechanical processing and to minimize the risk to the customer upon loss of the customer card. The process also allows customers who do not have a bank account, such as children for example, to have access to an electronic payment means with limited availability frame. The customer card can be either a card with contacts or a contactless card.