Timothy G Northrup

US Patent:

20050283623, Dec 22, 2005

Filed:

Jun 17, 2004

Appl. No.:

10/870666

Inventors:

Peter Vanderheyden - Naperville IL, US
Timothy Northrup - Summerfield FL, US
Thomas Colson - Clarence Center NY, US

International Classification:

H04L009/32
G06F012/14
G06F011/30

US Classification:

713193000

Abstract:

The invention broadly comprises a computer-based method for certifying files using a specially programmed computer. The method sets parameters for identifying files to process and parameters for a processing schedule. An identified file is digitally fingerprinted. In some aspects, a copy of the file is archived. In some aspects, the archived file is renamed and/or converted to a read-only file. The method creates a Bulk Certification Record (BCR), adds the fingerprint to the BCR, and generates processing reports. The method transmits the BCR to a base computer, which compiles BCR information into a Daily Certification Record (DCR). A digital fingerprint is made of the DCR, and the DCR and the DCR fingerprint are given a respective sequential number. The method publishes the DCR, DCR fingerprint, and the respective sequential numbers both electronically and in print media. The present invention also includes an apparatus to certify a file.