Method for crediting or recrediting a data card with a given amount

Abstract

A method for loading or reloading a SIM card (7) for a mobile device (6). The SIM card (7) has an electronic chip with a storage device (11). In the storage device (11) a monetary sum (28) is stored, and decreases as the mobile telephone is used. For loading or reloading the monetary sum, a prepayable value card (13) is purchased. The value card (13) has a code field (14) covered by a removable opaque layer (22). Upon removal of the layer (22), a code (15) becomes visible. The holder of the SIM card and the value card calls a service number using a communication apparatus (6, 8). The caller is thereby connected to a data base (17) in which all codes assigned to value cards (13) and the sum of money associated with each code are stored. The caller is prompted to enter the code (15) on the calling communication apparatus. The code (15) entered is compared with the codes stored in the data base (6, 8). If the entered code (15) is found in the data base, a short message containing the value of the monetary sum (28) to be loaded or reloaded is prepared and temporarily stored in a short message service center (18, 19). The monetary sum (28) and the code (15) are marked in the data base (17) as used or cancelled. The next time the SIM card (7) is inserted in any mobile telephone (6) and a connection is established with the communication network (9), the SIM card (7) to be loaded or reloaded is loaded or reloaded with the temporarily stored monetary amount (28) via of the prepared short message (20).

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.