Systems and methods to authenticate identity and stock ownership

Abstract

A system and method for verifying over a computer network the legitimacy of a participant in communications by authenticating the participant's actual name and address, and in some embodiments also authenticating the participant's ownership of corporate stock. At least one processor is provided that is configured to verify participant identity by authenticating the participant's actual name and address through any one of several offered alternative means, including from subscription, membership or credit card information, or confirmation of USPS mail delivery. A processor may also be configured to verify stock ownership through whatever records suit the participant, including SEC records, corporate transfer agent records, electronic copies of ownership records or online custodial account records. The independent processes of identity and ownership verification may be coordinated to verify investor status in communications. If an independent moderator conducts verification, the participant may determine what verified information is reported to enable anonymous communication.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.