WO2008059536A2

WO2008059536A2 - System and method for anonymous communication

Info

Publication number: WO2008059536A2
Application number: PCT/IN2007/000547
Authority: WO
Inventors: Parag Dhanvantrai Jasani; Yazad Minoo Anklesaria
Original assignee: Parag Dhanvantrai Jasani
Priority date: 2006-11-17
Filing date: 2007-11-15
Publication date: 2008-05-22
Also published as: WO2008059536A3

Abstract

The present invention relates to a system and a method for anonymous communication between a first party (ABC) and a second party (DEF) located at first and second stations respectively, each station being enabled to communicate with each other through a network for the first party and the second party to initiate communication with each other, said method comprising of the steps of : a) transmitting a request from the first station to the network (202); b) retrieving the contact number of the channel of the network to communicate with the network and transmitting the contact number to the first station (205); c) informing the network about the expected call from the first station using the channel in step (b) for communicating with the second station (206); d) communicating from the first station to the network using the number of the channel in step (b) in order to communicate through the channel (301); e) identification of caller in order to verify that the communication is from the first party (302); and f ) communication from the network to the second party to connect first party with second party (306)..

Description

TITLE OF THE INVENTION:

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR ANONYMOUS COMMUNICATION

FIELD OF THE INVENTION:

The present invention relates to a system and method for anonymous communication.

BACKGROUND:

Millions of people all over the world communicate anonymously over the Internet. The advantage being, that without knowing the person you are communicating with, you can communicate to your heart's content.

When communicating on the Internet, people risk their privacy by publishing their contact details to other Internet users. By doing so, unknown and undesired people can contact them and intrude upon their privacy.

Online anonymous communication is widely used in matchmaking, social networks and forums. Other usages are online advertising, auctions, surveys, customer feedback, crime reporting, etc.

Currently, the only means available to communicate anonymously over the Internet are email, chat and instant messenger. The main advantage of these modes of communication is that they offer global reach, quick communications and do not cost much. But, in contrast to these, there are disadvantages in terms of accessibility, reliability of information & the quality of communication.

There are many disadvantages of currently available communication systems online.

Disadvantages of email

1. When you email someone, you have to wait for that person to revert back to you. There is nothing you can do except wait for the reply.

There could be several reasons for the delay in reply:

a) If that person has not been on the Internet for some time, your reply is delayed. b) If that person is not interested in replying to you (for whatever reason), you will never get to know about it.

c) If that person has deleted your email by mistake, you'll keep wondering as to what went wrong.

d) The person you have emailed can take his/her own time to reply and there is nothing you can do about it.

2. In many cases, it is important to express and emphasize your emotions while communicating, which is not possible in email.

3. You have to make your computer operational (switch it on, connect it to the internet and log on to the website) in order to send an email.

Disadvantages of chat

1. If the chat gets disconnected in the middle of a conversation, you would never know if it was done deliberately by that person to avoid you or was it due to some technical problem on his/her computer (like the computer getting hung or getting disconnected etc.).

2. In certain cases where you need to emphasize your feelings, you might have to frequently seek help of tools like emoticons, which might sometime send a wrong message or may misinterpret your emotions because of them being too general.

3. You have to make your computer operational, (switch it on, connect it to the Internet and log on to the chat service) to chat with a person.

4. You can chat only if the desired person is online and logged on to the specific website.

Disadvantages of Instant Messenger

1. In certain cases where you need to emphasize your feelings, you might have to frequently seek help of tools like emoticons, (which are in general categories) to emphasize what you want to emphasize. 2. You have to make your computer operational (switch it on, connect it to the Internet and start the instant messenger service) to send an instant message to a person and expect that person to be online at the same time.

3. You can only interactively communicate if the desired person is online.

4. In many cases, you have to download and install the instant messenger software to send an instant message. In other cases, when there is browser-based instant messenger, not only the desired person has to be online, but he/she has to be online on the same website.

Example: Online Matchmaking Website

A good example is an online matchmaking website.

A large portion of match seekers all over the world are using online matchmaking web sites to search for their preferred dating partner, life partner or an activity partner. One of the main advantages of such matchmaking websites on the Internet is that it facilitates anonymous communications with people without any geographical barriers, while availing the benefits of sophisticated matchmaking tools to find their desired partner.

Typically, these matchmaking websites have four sections: 1) member profile submission, 2) preferred partner information submission, 3) utilizing matchmaking & search features and 4) utilizing communication tools to facilitate a complete 'register, search & contact' solution for their members.

Out of all, the communication is most important feature, as it helps establish initial exchange of information and ideas, which can later on be helpful in starting new relationships.

To facilitate anonymous communication between their members, these websites typically use (a) email, (b) chat (1-on-1 and chat-rooms) and (d) instant messengers.

As emotion and emphasis on the matter are most important when one is communicating to initiate a relationship, voice communications are most suitable for the purpose. A few words coming from a person speaks volumes about his/her breeding, family values, culture, upbringing, beliefs, etc. In other words, you can tell a lot about a person simply by hearing his/her voice, without even reading the expressions on his/her face. By studying the words, the tone, the response time and expression of the voice, you can easily make out whether someone is interested, excited, nervous, happy or uncomfortable while talking to you.

Some Instant Messengers offer anonymous Voice enabled communications, but they are limited to the users being online on the Internet. At any given time, a very small percent of matchmaking websites' member base is online, limiting access to rest of the users who have subscribed to such service.

Out of those who are offline, some members utilize the matchmaking website for some time and never return, some start using other services and some don't come online at all. It becomes impossible to communicate with such members, which, on typical matchmaking websites, are usually in large numbers.

The only way these members can be contacted is through a phone (landline or a mobile). This mode of communication also offers anywhere, anytime accessibility. As anonymity is important to safeguard ones privacy and security, the publication of the called party's phone number to enable such communication is not preferred.

An anonymous call system is thus desirable, offering the users instant accessibility in a controlled environment with the quality and reach a phone call offers.

Example: E-commerce Website

Many people use e-commerce websites to search in order to buy or sell products and services. One of the main advantages of such websites is that the user can do the same from the comfort of their desktop, while providing access to a lot of products (for buyers) and a lot of people (for sellers).

Out of all, the communication is an important feature, as it helps users communicate regarding the products or services of interest.

To facilitate such communication between their members, these websites typically use (a) email and (b) direct contact details display.

The best way these members can communicate is through a phone (landline or a mobile). This mode of communication offers instant, spontaneous, anywhere, anytime accessibility. As privacy is important to certain members, the publication of the called party's phone number to enable such communication is not preferred.

An anonymous call system is thus desirable, offering the users instant and spontaneous accessibility in a controlled environment with the quality and reach a phone call offers.

The word 'anonymous' used herein does not pertain to communicating with someone without knowing his / her name. It is used in the widely accepted meaning of communication with a person without knowing his / her contact details. In the present invention, it is used for communicating with someone without knowing or using his / her phone number by the calling party. The purpose of such communication is to maintain the privacy and secrecy of both the parties.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION:

The present invention overcomes the aforesaid problems by providing a system and a method for anonymous communication which enables users to make anonymous voice calls via PSTN, mobile, Internet, satellite, etc. networks, which are used for communication.

The present invention relates to a method for anonymous communication between a first party and a second party located at first and second stations respectively, each station being enabled to communicate with each other through a network for the first party and the second party to initiate communication with each other, said method comprising: a) transmitting a request from the first station to the network; b) retrieving the contact number of the channel of the network to communicate with the network and transmitting the contact number to the first station; c) informing the network about the expected call from the first station using the channel in step (b) for communicating with the second station; d) communicating from the first station to the network using the number of the channel in step (b) in order to communicate through the channel; e) identification of caller in order to verify that the communication is from the first party; and f) communication from the network to the second party to connect first party with second party.

The present invention also relates to a method for anonymous communication between a first party and a second party located at first and second stations respectively, each station being enabled to communicate with each other through a network for said first party and said second party to initiate communication with each other, said method comprising; (a) communicating from said first station to said network using contact number of said network; (b) identification in order to verify that said communication is from said first party; (c) transmitting a member reference number of said second party by said first party to said network or transmitting an option by said first party in response to a IVR (interactive voice response) system; and (d) communication from said network to said second party to connect first party with second party.

The present invention also describes a system for anonymous communication between a first party and a second party on an electronic network comprising of at least a server connected to said network, at least two stations to be connected to said network and at least a program executing on said network, said network containing contact details of the party to be contacted, such that if a request from said first station to said network is transmitted; then (a) the contact number of the channel of said network is retrieved from said network and transmitted to said first station; (b) said network is informed about the expected call from said first station using said channel in step (a) for communicating with said second station; (c) said first station communicates to said network using said number of said channel in step (a); (d) the caller is identified in order to verify that said communication is from said first party; (e) said network communicates to said second party in order to connect first party with second party.

The present invention also contemplates a system for anonymous communication between a first party and a second party on an electronic network comprising of at least a server connected to said network, at least two stations to be connected to said network and at least a program executing on said network, said network containing contact details of the party to be contacted, such that (a) said first station communicates to said network using a contact number of said network; (b) the caller is identified in order to verify that said communication is from said first party; (c) a member reference number of said second party or an option by said first party in response to an IVR (interactive voice response) system is transmitted by said first party to said network; (d) said network communicates to said second party in order to connect first party with second party. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION:

A preferred embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the figures accompanying the specification wherein the numerals/characters denote the same part and wherein:

Figure 1 shows the procedure to request an anonymous voice call

Figures 2a and 2b show the procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call via program on a mobile device Figures 3a and 3b show the procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call via Short Message Service (SMS)

Figures 4a and 4b show the procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call using PSTN/VOIP/MOBILE device using IVR system

Figures 5a and 5b show the procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call using Web technologies

Figures 6a and 6b show the procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call using PSTNΛ/OIP/MOBILE device using member reference number

The following description provides any person skilled in the art to make and use the invention and sets forth the best modes contemplated by the inventor of carrying out his invention. Various modifications, however, will remain readily apparent to those skilled in the art.

The present invention relates to a method for anonymous communication between a first party and a second party located at first and second stations respectively, each station being enabled to communicate with each other through a network for the first party and the second party to initiate communication with each other, said method comprising of the steps of: a) transmitting a request from the first station to the network; b) retrieving the contact number of the channel of the network to communicate with the network and transmitting the contact number to the first station; c) informing the network about the expected call from the first station using the channel in step (b) for communicating with the second station; d) communicating from the first station to the network using the number of the channel in step (b) in order to communicate through the channel; e) identification of caller in order to verify that the communication is from the first party; and f) communication from the network to the second party to connect first party with second party. The aforesaid method of initiation of communication does not apply to devices which cannot transmit requests, such as wired telephones, etc.

The present invention may also include a step of verifying whether the first party is authorized to communicate with the second party. This step of verification is achieved before step (b) above.

The present invention may also include a step of verifying a match of at least one of the own attributes of the first party with at least one of the desired attributes of the second party. It may also include matching of at least one of the desired attributes of the first party with at least one of the own attributes of the second party. Further, a combination of both the above are also possible. These steps of verifying occur prior to the transmission of the request, as stated in step (a) above. Further, the second party may opt to receive calls only from the first party only if the own attributes or desired attributes or both these attributes of the first party match the desired attributes or own attributes or both these attributes respectively of the second party.

The attributes to be matched are data on personal choices like demographical data, astrological data, physical data, psychological data, geographical location data, data on renting, buying or selling products or services, etc., or a combination thereof. The geographical location is either automatically detected by global positioning system (GPS) or cellular triangulation or manually entered by the parties.

The present invention also works for communication medium, wherein the method comprises of a) communicating from the first station to the network using contact number of the network; b) identification in order to verify that the communication is from the first party; c) transmitting a member reference number of the second party by the first party to the network or transmitting an option by the first party in response to a known interactive voice response system; and d) communication from the network to the second party to connect first party with second party.

The aforesaid method of initiation of communication applies only to devices which can call, such as wired telephones or VOIP, etc. The present invention may also include a step of verifying whether the first party is authorized to communicate with the second party. This step of verification is achieved before step (d) above.

The authorization mentioned in the above paragraphs comprises of the steps of a) transmitting a request from the first party to the second party through the network; and b) receiving an acceptance from the second party to the first party through the network. The status of the authorization (acceptance or rejection) is stored in the database of the network.

The second party has an option to either accept or reject the call or all calls from the first party permanently or temporarily at the instance of call being received. The aforesaid rejection can be before or after accepting the call from the first party. The acceptance or rejection or both of such calls are stored in the database of the network.

The second party also has an option to specify a time to receive calls, which can be in time range, recurring intervals, excluded time range, excluded recurring intervals or temporary time interval. The second party can also limit the number of calls made by said first party.

The identification achieved in the preceding paragraphs is achieved from a caller line identification or a personal identification number.

The aforesaid method generates a communication record including start time, end time, duration of said communication, billing information and call success status.

The method disclosed herein also employs a notification, which is sent to said first party if said second party is engaged, unavailable or there is no reply from said second party or there is unsuccessful communication. The first party has an option to leave a message for the second party. The method disclosed herein also employs another notification, which is sent to the first party if no channel is available for the communication or at the instance of any of such channel being available. If the channels are unavailable, a request is generated, which is kept in queue. The status of such requests are stored and transmitted to the first and second parties. A notification is sent to the first party on any of the channels becomes available.

The present invention also describes a system for anonymous communication between at least two parties on an electronic network comprising of at least a server connected to said network, at least two stations to be connected to said network and at least a program executing on said network, said network containing contact details of parties, such that if a request from said first station to said network is transmitted; then (a) the contact number of the channel of said network is retrieved from said network and transmitted to said first station; (b) said network is informed about the expected call from said first station using said channel in step (a) for communicating with said second station; (c) said first station communicates to said network using said number of said channel in step (a); (d) the caller is identified in order to verify that said communication is from said first party; (e) said network communicates to said second party in order to connect first party with second party.

The present invention also contemplates a system for anonymous communication between at least two parties on an electronic network comprising of at least a server connected to said network, at least two stations to be connected to said network and at least a program executing on said network, said network containing contact details of parties, such that (a) said first station communicates to said network using a contact number of said network; (b) the caller is identified in order to verify that said communication is from said first party; (c) a member reference number of said second party or an option by said first party in response to an IVR (interactive voice response) system is transmitted by said first party to said network; (d) said network communicates to said second party in order to connect first party with second party.

The stations can be either of a computer node, a telephone, a cellular device, a satellite device or a mobile device. The network comprises of at least a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet, cellular, wireless network or a combination thereof. There may be plurality of servers located on one or more electronic networks. The present invention is explained with the help of the following procedures. However, please note that these procedures take into consideration requesting, initiating and establishing anonymous voice calls only and that these procedures are presented from the point of view of member "ABC".

How it works:

Few examples: • Procedure to request authorization for an anonymous voice call

• Procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call via program on a mobile device

• Procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call via Short Message Service (SWIS)

• Procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call using PSTN/VOIP/MOBILE device using IVR system • Procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call using Web technologies

• Procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call using PSTN/VOIP/MOBILE device using member reference number

Procedure to request authorization for an anonymous voice call

This procedure is demonstrated in Figure 1.

• ABC selects "request call authorization to DEF" via the Website, ABC's mobile device, Instant Messenger, email, or other communication media - Step 101 • ABC's request is stored on the server - Step 102

• Server forwards ABC's call authorization request to the website and either DEF's mobile device, Instant Messenger, email, or other communication media. - Step 103

• If not authorized by DEF, the condition of blocking ABC's particular call request or ABC's all call requests is stored on the server - Steps 104, 105 o ABC is alerted of DEF's rejection via the Website, ABC's mobile device, Instant Messenger, email, or other communication media. - Step 106 • If authorized by DEF, the authorization is stored in a lookup table on the server - Step 104, 107 o ABC is alerted of DEF's authorization via the Website, ABC's mobile device, Instant Messenger, email, or other communication media. - Step 108

In the above procedure:

• In Steps 102, 103, 105 and 107, the server is one or one of the many servers that may function individually or collectively as one logical unit. A server may be a web server (hosting websites), a data server (specially configured to store, index, retrieve and serve data), an application server providing services to connected clients and devices (thin clients) under client-server architecture or a combination thereof.

• In Steps 107, DEF's authorization to ABC's call request may be more than Υes". For example: o DEF can optionally define a time-slot in which the calls can be made by ABC, specific callers or all callers

■ DEF can further define that any calls made (to DEF) at a time other than the defined time-slot, the caller may be informed and prompted to leave a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time o DEF can be given the option to approve ABC's call request for only a defined time period o Authorization may even incorporate a condition for weekend calling, days of the week, etc. o Authorization may even follow a model by which ABC is authorized to place a fixed number of calls or within a fixed time limit, until further approval from DEF. o Or any other condition o Any or all authorization conditions can be of permanent or temporary nature

• In Step 107, DEF may also set the preferred time which can be common to all callers or for a particular caller. The preferred time can also incorporate calling within specific times, calling at all times other than a particular time range(s) or any other conditions.

Procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call via program on a mobile device

This procedure is demonstrated in Figures 2a and 2b.

• ABC selects "Call DEF", via program on mobile device - Step 201 • The program queries the server to verify if ABC is authorized to call DEF based on a preset lookup table {Step 107) - Step 202 o If not authorized, ABC is alerted of the condition and alternatively and conditionally, ABC is requested to place a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time - Steps 203, 204 • If authorized, available channel number of the call server is retrieved and reserved for ABC's call to DEF for a fixed period and the same channel number is sent back to ABC's mobile device - Steps 203, 205

• Selected call server is notified of the expectant call from ABC for DEF on the selected channel - Step 206 • ABC's mobile device dials the sent number of the channel of the call server - Step

301

• On verifying the call from ABC, the call server retrieves DEF's assigned number - Step 302

• With ABC's call on hold, call server dials DEF's assigned number and informs DEF of the incoming call from ABC - Step 303 o If rejected by DEF, ABC is alerted of the condition and alternatively and conditionally, ABC is requested to place a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time - Steps 304, 305

• If accepted by DEF, call server connects ABC's call to DEF - Steps 304, 306

In the above procedure:

• Alternatively, in Step 201, "Call DEF" option maybe available to ABC only when it has been previously authorized (Step 107) by DEF. • In Step 201, a program is at least a firmware, software, a sequence of instructions that a computing device can interpret and execute or a combination thereof, working as a single or multiple logical units, which may be permanently or temporarily resident in the computing device's memory. The firmware and software maybe capable of functioning independently or functioning in a connected client-server environment (thin client) where the logical sequences and instructions are computed or processed by one or one of many application servers, in conjunction with one or one of the many data servers and web servers configured and working independently or as a single logical unit. • In Step 202, the server is one or one of the many servers that may function individually or collectively as one logical unit. A server may be a web server (hosting websites), a data server (specially configured to store, index, retrieve and serve data), an application server providing services to connected clients and devices (thin clients) under client-server architecture or a combination thereof. • In Steps 203, 205 and 301, the channel is one of the plurality of communication conduits available on one or plurality of call servers to connect the parties.

• In Step 205, a call server is one or one of the many call servers configured to enable data, voice and video communication between collaborating devices, users and apparatuses. It may be an independent computing device with data available locally for computing, processing and responding to requests made by connected client devices, or a logical unit comprising of one or plurality of connected web servers, data servers, application servers or a combination thereof.

• In Steps 205 and 206, if the channel of the call server is not available, ABC is alternatively and conditionally notified of the situation and ABC's request is queued. When a channel of the call server becomes available and is reserved for the call, ABC is alerted via mobile device's GUI, mobile messaging, etc.

• In Step 205, the retrieval of channel number of the call server is not limited to choosing an available number but also could be logically providing the best commercially viable number for the service provider, user or both. • In Steps 205, 206 and 301, the communication platform (PSTN, VOIP, MOBILE, etc.) may be logically chosen on basis of commercial viability, voice quality, etc.

• Steps 206 and 302 can be modified by which in Step 301 DEF's assigned number can be sent to the call server at substantially simultaneous instance of being notified of the expectant call from ABC. • In Step 301, the channel number of the call server can be dialed automatically by the mobile program or when prompted by ABC.

• In Step 302, the verification of the call by ABC can be done either through Caller ID or ABC manually entering an account PIN (Personal Identification Number) for his/her account authorization. PIN can be selected by ABC, automatically generated by the server once during ABC's registration or generated by the server in real-time while placing a call. The PIN is not to be mistaken with any type or form of reference code. PIN is specific for ABC's account only and not for any particular call connection by ABC. • In Steps 302 and 303, DEF's availability may not be limited only to the mobile,

PSTN or VOIP device. It may even enable voice chatting with DEF via any voice- enabled instant messenger

• In Steps 302 and 303, the assigned number is the phone number of 'DEF'.

• In Step 303, provisions are made for conditions like unavailability of DEF, busy or no response received from DEF or DEF's communication device or any other such conditions. Under these provisions, ABC can be alternatively and conditionally notified of the situation and the alternative processes can be used to either end the call process, conditionally and alternatively leave a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time or waiting for such situation to end. • In Steps 304 and 305, DEF rejects the call by selecting the "reject call" option

• In Steps 304 and 306, DEF accepts the call by selecting the "accept call" option

Procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call via Short Message Service

This procedure is demonstrated in Figures 3a and 3b.

• ABC sends "Call DEF" via SMS to SMS server - Step 401

• Server is queried to verify if ABC is authorized to call DEF based on a preset lookup table {Step 107) - Step 402 o If not authorized, ABC is alerted of the condition via SMS and alternatively and conditionally, ABC is requested to place a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time - Steps 403, 404 • If authorized, available channel number of the call server is retrieved and reserved for ABC's call to DEF for a fixed period & number of the channel of the call server is sent back to ABC via SMS - Steps 403, 405

• Selected call server is notified of the expectant call from ABC to DEF on the selected channel - Step 406

• ABC calls the designated channel number of the call server - Step 501

• On verifying the call from ABC, the call server retrieves DEF's assigned number - Step 502

• With ABC's call on hold, call server dials DEF's assigned number and informs DEF of the incoming call from ABC - Step 503 o If rejected by DEF, ABC is alerted of the condition and alternatively and conditionally, ABC is requested to place a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time - Steps 504, 505

• If accepted by DEF₁ call server connects ABC's call to DEF- Steps 504, 506

In the above procedure:

• In Step 401, the SMS Server is one or one of the many servers that may function individually or collectively as one logical unit. SMS Server may be a web server (hosting websites), a data server (specially configured to store, index, retrieve and serve data), an application server providing services to connected clients and devices (thin clients) under client-server architecture or a combination thereof, connected to a SMS Center (SMSC) of one or plurality of Mobile Service Providers. Furthermore, the SMS Server may also be an independent computing device or a logical unit comprising of one or plurality of connected web servers (hosting web sites), data servers (specially configured to store, index, retrieve and serve data), application servers or a combination thereof, connected directly or via network to a CDMA/GSM modem.

• In Step 402, the server queried by the SMS server is one or one of the many data servers (specially configured to store, index, retrieve and serve data), web servers (hosting web sites), application servers providing services to connected clients and devices (thin clients) under client-server architecture or a combination thereof, working independently or as a single logical unit. Furthermore, the SMS server and the server can be a single physical computing device providing both or more functionalities. • In Steps 403, 405 and 501, the channel is one of the plurality of communication conduits available on one or plurality of call servers to connect the parties.

• In Step 405, a call server is one or one of the many call servers configured to enable data, voice and video communication between collaborating devices, users and apparatuses. It may be an independent computing device with data available locally for computing, processing and responding to requests made by connected client devices, or a logical unit comprising of one or plurality of connected web servers, data servers, application servers or a combination thereof.

• In Step 405, the available call server can be one or one of the many alternative call servers.

• In Step 405, the retrieval of channel number of the call server is not limited to choosing an available channel number but also could be logically chosen to provide the best commercially viable number for the service provider, user or both.

• In Steps 405 and 406, the communication platform (PSTN, VOIP, MOBILE, etc.) may be logically chosen on the basis of commercial viability, voice quality, etc.

• In Steps 405 and 406, if the channel of the call server is not available, ABC is alternatively and conditionally notified of the situation and ABC's request is queued. When a channel of the call server becomes available and is reserved for the call, ABC is alerted via mobile messaging, etc. • In Step 502, the verification of the call by ABC can be done either through Caller

ID or by ABC manually entering an account PIN (Personal Identification Number) for his/her account authorization. PIN can be selected by ABC, automatically generated by the server once during ABC's registration or generated by the server in real-time while placing a call. The PIN is not to be mistaken with any type or form of reference code. PIN is specific for ABC's account only and not for any particular call connection by ABC.

• Steps 406 and 502 can be modified by which in Step 501, DEFs assigned number can be sent to the call server at substantially simultaneous instance of being notified of the expectant call from ABC. • In Steps 502 and 503, DEF's availability may not be limited only to the mobile,

PSTN or VOIP device. It may even enable voice chatting with DEF via any voice- enabled instant messenger.

• In Steps 502 and 503, the assigned number is the phone number of 'DEF'. • In Step 503, provisions are made for conditions like unavailability of DEF, busy or no response received from DEF or DEF's communication device or any other such conditions. Under these provisions, ABC can be alternatively and conditionally notified of the situation and the alternative processes can be used to either end the call process, conditionally and alternatively leave a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time or waiting for such situation to end.

• In Steps 504 and 505, DEF rejects the call by selecting the "reject call" option

• In Steps 504 and 506, DEF accepts the call by selecting the "accept call" option

Procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call using PSTN/VOIP/Mobile device using IVR system

This procedure is demonstrated in Figures 4a and 4b.

• ABC calls a designated call server number - Step 601

• On verifying ABC, call server retrieves ABC's approved-to-call list based on a preset lookup table (Step 107) - Step 602

• An IVR system at the call server is used by ABC to navigate the retrieved list and select (utilizing voice recognition, phone-pad input, etc) the person to call, in this case, DEF - Step 603

• With ABC's call on hold, call server dials DEF's assigned number and informs DEF of the incoming call from ABC - Step 604 o If rejected by DEF, ABC is alerted of the condition and alternatively and conditionally, ABC is requested to place a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time - Steps 605, 606

• If accepted by DEF, call server connects ABC's call to DEF- Steps 605, 701

In the above procedure:

• In Step 601, a call server is one or one of the many call servers configured to enable data, voice and video communication between collaborating devices, users and apparatuses. It may be an independent computing device with data available locally for computing, processing and responding to requests made by connected client devices, or a logical unit comprising of one or plurality of connected web servers, data servers, application servers or a combination thereof. • Alternatively, in Step 602, call server can retrieve a list of available users ABC is approved to call, based on their preferred time slots, at the time of placing the call.

• In Step 602, the verification of the call by ABC can be done either through Caller ID or ABC manually entering an account PIN (Personal Identification Number) for his/her account authorization. PIN can be selected by ABC, automatically generated by the server once during ABC's registration or generated by the server in real-time while placing a call. The PIN is not to be mistaken with any type or form of reference code. PIN is specific for ABC's account only and not for any particular call connection by ABC. • In Step 604, DEF's availability may not be limited only to the mobile, PSTN or

VOIP device. It may even enable voice chatting with DEF via any voice-enabled instant messenger.

• In Step 604, provisions are made for conditions like unavailability of DEF, busy or no response received from DEF or DEF's communication device or any other such conditions. Under these provisions, ABC can be alternatively and conditionally notified of the situation and the alternative processes can be used to either end the call process, conditionally and alternatively leave a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time or waiting for such situation to end.

• In Step 604, the assigned number is the phone number of 'DEF'. • In Steps 605 and 606, DEF rejects the call by selecting the "reject call" option

• In Steps 605 and 701, DEF accepts the call by selecting the "accept call" option

Procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call using Web technologies

This procedure is demonstrated in Figures 5a and 5b.

• When online on a public network like the Internet, either on website, Instant Messenger, etc., ABC selects "Call DEF" option - Step 801

• Server is queried to verify if ABC is authorized to call DEF based on a preset lookup table (Step 107) - Step 802 o If not authorized, ABC is alerted of the condition and alternatively and conditionally, ABC is requested to place a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time - Steps 803 and 804 • If authorized, available channel number of the call server is retrieved and reserved for ABC's call to DEF for a fixed period and the channel number of the call server is displayed to ABC - Steps 803, 805

• Selected call server is notified of the expectant call from ABC for DEF on the selected channel - Step 806

• ABC calls the designated channel number of the call server - Step 901

• On verifying the call from ABC, the call server retrieves DEF's assigned number - Step 902

• With ABC's call on hold, call server dials DEF's assigned number and informs DEF of the incoming call from ABC - Step 903 o If rejected by DEF, ABC is alerted of the condition and alternatively and conditionally, ABC is requested to place a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time - Steps 904, 905

• If accepted by DEF, call server connects ABC's call to DEF - Steps 904, 906

In the above procedure:

• Alternatively, in Step 801, "Call DEF" option maybe available to ABC only when it has been previously authorized by DEF

• In Step 802, the server queried is one or one of the many data servers (specially configured to store, index, retrieve and serve data), web servers (hosting web sites), application servers providing services to connected clients and devices (thin clients) under client-server architecture or a combination thereof, working independently or as a single logical unit.

• In Steps 803, 805 and 901, the channel is one of the plurality of communication conduits available on one or plurality of call servers to connect the parties.

• In Step 805, a call server is one or one of the many call servers configured to enable data, voice and video communication between collaborating devices, users and apparatuses. It may be an independent computing device with data available locally for computing, processing and responding to requests made by connected client devices, or a logical unit comprising of one or plurality of connected web servers, data servers, application servers or a combination thereof.

• In Step 805, the retrieval of call server number is not limited to choosing an available number but could also be logically chosen to provide the best commercially viable number for the service provider, user or both • In Step 805, the communication platform (PSTN, VOIP, MOBILE, etc.) may be logically chosen on basis of commercial viability, voice quality, etc.

• In Steps 805 and 806, if the channel of the call server is not available, ABC is alternatively and conditionally notified of the situation and ABC's request is queued. A channel of the call server becomes available and is reserved for the call, ABC is alerted either by website, Instant Messenger, mobile messaging, etc.

• Steps 806 and 902 can be modified by which in Step 806 DEF's assigned number can be sent to the call server at substantially simultaneous instance of being notified of the expectant call from ABC. • In Step 902, the verification of the call by ABC can be done either through Caller

ID or ABC manually entering an account PIN (Personal Identification Number) for his/her account authorization. PIN can be selected by ABC or automatically generated by the server once during ABC's registration or generated by the server in real-time while placing a call. The PIN is not to be mistaken with any type or form of reference code. PIN is specific for ABC's account only and not for any particular call connection by ABC.

• In Step 902, DEF's availability may not be limited only to the mobile, PSTN or VOIP device. It may even enable voice chatting with DEF via any voice-enabled instant messenger. • In Steps 902 and 903, the assigned number is the phone number of 'DEF'.

• In Step 903, provisions are made for conditions like unavailability of DEF, busy or no response received from DEF or DEF's communication device or any other such conditions. Under these provisions, ABC can be alternatively and conditionally notified of the situation and the alternative processes can be used to either end the call process, conditionally and alternatively leave a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time or waiting for such situation to end.

• In Steps 904 and 905, DEF rejects the call by selecting the "reject call" option

• In Steps 904 and 906, DEF accepts the call by selecting the "accept call" option

Procedure to initiate an anonymous voice call using PSTN/VOIP/Mobile device using member reference number

This procedure is demonstrated in Figures 6a and 6b. • ABC calls a designated call server number - Step 1001

• On being verified, ABC enters DEF's member reference number (utilizing voice recognition, phone-pad input, etc) - Step 1002

• Server is queried to verify if ABC is authorized to call DEF, based on a preset lookup table {Step 107) - Step 1003 o If not authorized, ABC is alerted of the condition and alternatively and conditionally, ABC is requested to place a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time - Steps 1004 and 1005

• With ABC's call on hold, call server dials DEF's assigned number and informs DEF of the incoming call from ABC - Step 1101 o If rejected by DEF, ABC is alerted of the condition and alternatively and conditionally, ABC is requested to place a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time - Steps 1102, 1103

• If accepted by DEF, call server connects ABC's call to DEF- Steps 1102, 1104

In the above procedure:

• In Step 1001, a call server is one or one of the many call servers configured to enable data, voice and video communication between collaborating devices, users and apparatuses. It may be an independent computing device with data available locally for computing, processing and responding to requests made by connected client devices, or a logical unit comprising of one or plurality of connected web servers, data servers, application servers or a combination thereof.

• In Step 1002, the verification of the call by ABC can be done either through Caller ID or ABC manually entering an account PIN (Personal Identification Number) for his/her account authorization. PIN can be selected by ABC, automatically generated by the server once during ABC's registration or generated by the server in real-time while placing a call. The PlN is not to be mistaken with any type or form of reference code. PIN is specific for ABC's account only and not for any particular call connection by ABC. • In Step 1101, DEF's availability may not be limited only to the mobile, PSTN or

• In Step 1101, provisions are made for conditions like unavailability of DEF, busy or no response received from DEF or DEF's communication device or any other such conditions. Under these provisions, ABC can be alternatively and conditionally notified of the situation and the alternative processes can be used to either end the call process, conditionally and alternatively leave a message which can be retrieved by DEF at a later time or waiting for such situation to end. • In Step 1101, the assigned number is the phone number of 'DEF'.

• In Steps 1102 and 1103, DEF rejects the call by selecting the "reject call" option

• In Steps 1102 and 1104, DEF accepts the call by selecting the "accept call" option

While the detailed description and the drawings included in this patent application are prepared with respect to currently prevailing computer devices, networks and communicating devices and media, it will be evident to anyone skilled in common art that this invention can be practiced on other types of computer devices, networks and communicating devices and media, which may or may not have been invented as on date of filing of this application, without departing from the scope and the spirit the said invention.

The above mentioned embodiments are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit persons skilled in the art capable of appreciating other embodiments. The present invention can be practiced in varied industries, applications and scenarios, using alternative devices and technologies over multiple networks, platforms and protocols without leaving the scope and spirit of the invention.

Claims

CLAIMS:

1. A method for anonymous communication between a first party and a second party located at first and second stations respectively, each station being enabled to communicate with each other through a network for said first party and said second party to initiate communication with each other, said method comprising: a. Transmitting a request from said first station to said network; b. Retrieving the contact number of the channel of said network to communicate with said network and transmitting said contact number to said first station; c. Informing said network about the expected call from said first station using said channel in step (b) for communicating with said second station; d. Communicating from said first station to said network using said number of said channel in step (b) in order to communicate through said channel; e. Identifying caller in order to verify that said communication is from said first party; f. Communicating from said network to said second party to connect first party with second party.

2. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1, further comprising of the step of verifying a match of at least one of the own attributes of said first party with at least one of the desired attributes of said second party, said step of verifying occurring prior to step 1 (a).

3. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1, further comprising of the step of verifying a match of at least one of the desired attributes of said first party with at least one of the own attributes of said second party, said step of verifying occurring prior to step 1 (a).

4. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1, further comprising of the step of verifying a match of at least one of the own attributes of said first party with at least one of the desired attributes of said second party and at least one of the desired attributes of said first party with at least one of the own attributes of said second party, said step of verifying occurring prior to step 1 (a).

5. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 2 or 3 or 4, wherein said second party receives calls only from said first party if the own attributes of said first party match the desired attributes of said second party or the desired attributes of said first party match the own attributes of said second party or both the own and desired attributes of said first party match both the desired and own attributes of said second party respectively.

6. A method for anonymous communication between a first party and a second party located at first and second stations respectively, each station being enabled to communicate with each other through a network for said first party and said second party to initiate communication with each other, said method comprising: a. Communicating from said first station to said network using contact number of said network; b. Identifying the caller in order to verify that said communication is from said first party; c. Transmitting a reference number of said second party by said first party to said network or transmitting an option by said first party in response to an

IVR (interactive voice response) system; d. Communicating from said network to said second party to connect first party with second party.

7. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6, further comprising of a step of verifying authorization of said first party to communicate with said second party, said step of verifying occurring prior to step 1 (b) or 6 (d).

8. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 7, wherein said authorization comprises the steps of: a. Transmitting a request from said first party to said second party through said network; b. Receiving a notification of acceptance or rejection from said second party to said first party through said network;

9. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6, wherein said second party has an option to either accept or reject the call from said first party permanently or temporarily at the instance of call being received.

10. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6, wherein said second party has an option to reject all calls made from said first party at the instance of call being received.

11. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 8, wherein said rejection is before or after accepting the call from said first party.

12. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6, wherein each of said station is a computer node, a telephone, a cellular device, a satellite device or a mobile device.

13. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6, wherein said identification is done from a caller line identification or a personal identification number.

14. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 2 or 3 or 4, wherein said attributes are selected from either demographical data, astrological data, physical data, psychological data, geographical location data, data on renting, buying or selling products or services, or a combination thereof.

15. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 14, wherein said geographical location is detected by global positioning system (GPS) or cellular triangulation.

16. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 8, wherein status of said authorization is stored in a database of said network.

17. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 9 or 10, wherein said rejection from calls made by said first party is stored in a database of said network.

18. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6 wherein said method generates a record of either of start time, end time, duration of said communication, billing information, or call success status or a combination thereof.

19. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6 wherein said second party specifies a time to receive calls.

20. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 19, wherein said specified time is either in time range, recurring intervals, excluded time range, excluded recurring intervals or temporary time interval or a combination thereof.

21. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6, wherein said second party can limit the number of calls made by said first party.

22. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6, wherein a notification is sent to said first party if said second party is engaged, unavailable or there is no reply from said second party or there is unsuccessful communication.

23. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 22, wherein said first party optionally leaves a message for said second party.

24. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1, wherein a notification is sent to said first party if no channel is available for the communication.

25. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1, wherein on the unavailability of all channels, said request as per step 1(a) is kept in a queue.

26. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 25, wherein a notification is sent to said first party at the instance of any of said channels being available.

27. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6, wherein said network comprises of at least a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet, cellular, wireless network or a combination thereof.

28. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6, wherein said method is performed on plurality of servers located on one or more electronic networks.

29. A method for anonymous communication as claimed in Claim 1 or 6, wherein status of said request is stored and transmitted to said first and second party.

30. A system for anonymous communication between a first party and a second party located at first station and second station respectively, said stations located on an electronic network comprising of at least a server connected to said network, and at least a program executing on said network, said network containing contact details of parties, such that if a request from said first station to said network is transmitted; then (a) the contact number of the channel of said network is retrieved from said network and transmitted to said first station; (b) said network is informed about the expected call from said first station using said channel in step

(a) for communicating with said second station; (c) said first station communicates to said network using said number of said channel in step (a); (d) the caller is identified in order to verify that said communication is from said first party; (e) said network communicates to said second party in order to connect first party with second party.

31. A system as claimed in Claim 30, further comprising of matching of at least one of the own attributes of said first party with at least one of the desired attributes of said second party, such that said step of matching occurs prior to step 30(a).

32. A system as claimed in Claim 30, further comprising of the step of verifying a match of at least one of the desired attributes of said first party with at least one of the own attributes of said second party, said step of verifying occurring prior to step 30 (a).

33. A system as claimed in Claim 30, further comprising of the step of verifying a match of at least one of the own attributes of said first party with at least one of the desired attributes of said second party and at least one of the desired attributes of said first party with at least one of the own attributes of said second party, said step of verifying occurring prior to step 30 (a).

34. A system as claimed in Claim 31 or 32 or 33, wherein said second party receives calls only from said first party if the own attributes of said first party match the desired attributes of said second party or the desired attributes of said first party match the own attributes of said second party or both the own and desired attributes of said first party match both the desired and own attributes of said second party respectively.

35. A system for anonymous communication between a first party and a second party located at first station and second station respectively, said stations located on an electronic network comprising of at least a server connected to said network, and at least a program executing on said network, said network containing contact details of parties, such that (a) said first station communicates to said network using a contact number of said network; (b) the caller is identified in order to verify that said communication is from said first party; (c) a reference number of said second party or an option by said first party in response to an IVR (interactive voice response) system is transmitted by said first party to said network; (d) said network communicates to said second party in order to connect first party with second party.

36. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, further comprising of the step of verifying authorization of said first party to communicate with said second party, said step of verifying occurring prior to step 30 (a) or 35 (d).

37. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein said authorization comprises the steps of: a. Transmitting a request from said first party to said second party through said network; b. Receiving a notification of acceptance or rejection from said second party to said first party through said network;

38. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein said second party has an option to either accept or reject the call from said first party permanently or temporarily at the instance of call being received.

39. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein said second party has an option to reject all calls made from said first party at the instance of call being received.

40. A system as claimed in Claim 38, wherein said rejection is before or after accepting the call from said first party.

41. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein each of said station is a computer node, a telephone, a cellular device, a satellite device or a mobile device.

42. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein said identification is done from a caller line identification or a personal identification number.

43. A system as claimed in Claim 31 or 32 or 33, wherein said attributes are selected from either demographical data, astrological data, physical data, psychological data, geographical location data, data on renting, buying or selling products or services, or a combination thereof.

44. A system as claimed in Claim 43, wherein said geographical location is detected by global positioning system (GPS) or cellular triangulation.

45. A system as claimed in Claim 37, wherein status of said authorization is stored in the database of said network.

46. A system as claimed in Claim 38 or 39, wherein said rejection from calls made by said first party is stored in the database of said network.

47. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein said method generates a record of either of start time, end time, duration of said communication, billing information, or call success status or a combination thereof.

48. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein said second party specifies a time to receive calls.

49. A system as claimed in Claim 48, wherein said specified time is either in time range, recurring intervals, excluded time range, excluded recurring intervals or temporary time interval or a combination thereof.

50. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein said second party can limit the number of calls made by said first party.

51. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein a notification is sent to said first party if said second party is engaged, unavailable or there is no reply from said second party or there is unsuccessful communication.

52. A system as claimed in Claim 51, wherein said first party optionally leaves a message for said second party.

53. A system as claimed in Claim 30, wherein a notification is sent to said first party if no channel is available for the communication.

54. A system as claimed in Claim 30, wherein on the unavailability of all channels, said request as per step 30 (a) is kept in a queue.

55. A system as claimed in Claim 54, wherein a notification is sent to said first party on any of said channels being available.

56. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein said network comprises of at least a local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), Internet, cellular, wireless network or a combination thereof.

57. A system as claimed in Claim 30 or 35, wherein plurality of servers are located on one or more electronic networks.

58. A system and a method for anonymous communication substantially described herein with reference to the accompanying examples and the figures accompanying the specification.