An arrangement for storing a copy of personal data on a server and using the copy to update the data in a personal data device

摘要

A personal data device, system and method for storing personal data including authentication means for restricting access to the stored personal data to an authorised user and communication means for transferring at least some of the stored data between the personal data device and the transaction terminal and for transferring at least some of the personal data between the personal data device and a server. A copy of the personal data may be stored on a database server and the data on the personal data device and the data on the database server may then be mutually updated and synchronised by communications over a communications network. A facility may be supplied to delete the personal data stored on the personal data device when attempts are made by an unauthorised user to use the personal data device. The personal data may subsequently be reloaded into the personal data device, or into a replacement personal data device, from the database server.