IC card having block state of operation and method of providing security for the same

摘要

Information stored in an IC card which can be set to a block state, where any functions permitted to a user authority holder is not effective and an unblock password is required to set the IC card back to an initial state, is more secured than that stored in an IC card without the block state. The IC card of the present invention is further provided with a counter counting the number of incorrect unblock passwords, and is set to a more secured state of operation where only administrative authority holder can release the IC card.