Method and apparatus for registering a mobile device with a gaming machine

A method of securing a gaming machine for a player of the gaming machine using a mobile device, the method comprising the steps of:

• receiving a secure instruction from a gaming machine over a communications network, the secure instruction requesting securing of the gaming machine for the player;
• responsive to the secure instruction, retrieving an access code and a security code, the access code defining an access point of a communications system, the security code specific to a game play session for the player at the gaming machine;
• providing the retrieved access code and security code;
• establishing a communications session with the mobile device through the access point of the communications system;
• receiving the security code from the mobile device;
• sending a secure signal to the gaming machine, the secure signal instructing the gaming machine to enter a remote game play state.

A gaming machine for providing a game of chance for a player of the gaming machine, the player having an associated mobile device, the gaming machine comprising:

• a player interface coupled to receive a player input requesting securing of the gaming machine for the player;
• a gaming controller including a processor configured to:
• i) retrieve an access code and a security code, the access code defining an access point of a communications system, the security code specific to a game play session for the player at the gaming machine, and
• ii) provide the retrieved access code and security code for the player;
• and a network interface coupled to receive a confirmation message indicating access of the communications system using the access code, and receipt of the security code from the mobile device;
• wherein the gaming controller is further configured to:
• iii) responsive to the confirmation message, secure the gaming machine so that the gaming machine enters a remote game play state, and
• iv) release the gaming machine from the remote game play state responsive to a releasing event.

A data processing apparatus for securing a gaming machine for a player of the gaming machine using a mobile device, the apparatus comprising:

• a network interface coupled to receive a secure instruction from a gaming machine over a communications network, the secure instruction requesting securing of the gaming machine for the player;
• a processor configured to execute program code to:
• i) retrieve an access code and a security code from a storage medium, the access code defining an access point of a communications system, the security code specific to a game play session for the player at the gaming machine,
• ii) establish a communications session with the mobile device through the access point of the communications system,
• iii) receive the security code from the mobile device, and
• iv) send a secure signal to the gaming machine, the secure signal instructing the gaming machine to enter a remote game play state.