Methods and devices for controlling facsimile transmissions of confidential information

DETAILED DESCRIPTION In accordance with the present invention, there are provided devices and methods for controlling a facsimile transmission of confidential information.
A device envisioned by the present invention is adapted to allow transmission of near end, confidential information to a far end only if a comparison of a near end password with a far end password results in a match.
The comparison is conducted at the near end prior to transmission for added security.
Such a device may comprise a facsimile machine, a PC modem, a chipset, digital signal processor or the like.
In addition, the present invention envisions combining the above features with the capability of transmitting encrypted or non-encrypted confidential information.
Devices and methods envisioned by the invention may also comprise features and functions used to receive such confidential information as well.
For example, the same (or different) device may also generate a notification signal upon receipt of a near end, password request signal or an instruction signal to prompt a far end, intended recipient to enter a password or distribution instructions, respectively.
The present invention and its advantages can be best understood with reference to the drawings, detailed description of the invention, and claims that follow.