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VERIFY!.DOC
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**************************************************************
* *
* VERIFY!.EXE v3.4 Copyright (c) 1991 - 94 *
* *
* Sagerquist Micro Engineering *
* *
* 1414 W. Kerrick Street *
* Lancaster, Ca. 93534 *
* Data (805) 723-6908 *
* *
**************************************************************
DESCRIPTION
-----------
VERIFY! is a program designed to verify a BBS caller. When invoked,
VERIFY! will ask for specific information from the caller, hang up,
return the call, and ask for the same data for verification. If the
information matches, the caller is verified. ERRORLEVELs are returned
to the calling batch file which will allow the sysop to make the
necessary adjustments to the BBS as appropriate. A log file is kept
and maintains the caller's name and phone number for future reference.
SYNTAX
------
VERIFY! [/B:(bbstype)] [/D:(directory)] [/L:(optional log file)]
/B:... BBS switch. Choose from the list under SUPPORTED BBS's.
/D:... Directory (no file name) where the BBS's caller information
file is located. If this switch is not used, VERIFY! will
look for this file in the current directory only.
/L:... Optional log file path and name. If you want VERIFY! to log
its operations in your BBS log file, use this switch to
define the full drive:\path\filename.ext. If this switch
is not used, the default file VERIFY!.LOG will be created
and updated.
EXAMPLES
--------
VERIFY! /B:MH1
VERIFY! /B:TRIBBS /D:C:\TRIBBS
VERIFY! /B:WILDCAT /D:C:\WC30\WCWORK /L:C:\WC30\WCWORK\WC.LOG
Note: # is Node Number
SUPPORTED BBS's Switch: Caller Info File:
----------------------------------------------------------
Auntie: AUNTIE AUNTIE.SYS
MegaHost: MH# MEGAHST#.DEF
PcBoard: PCBOARD DOOR.SYS
ProBoard: PROBOARD DORINFO#.DEF
QuickBBS: QBBS# DORINFO#.DEF
RBBS: RBBS# DORINFO#.DEF
Remote Access: RA# DORINFO#.DEF
Renegade: RENEGADE# DORINFO#.DEF
RoboBoard: ROBOFX# DORINFO#.DEF
Spitfire: SPITFIRE SFDOORS.DAT
Teleguard: TELEGUARD CHAIN.TXT
TGP: TGP CHAIN.TXT
TRIBBS: TRIBBS TRIBBS.SYS
Virtual BBS/NET: VBBS CHAIN.TXT
Wildcat: WILDCAT CALLINFO.BBS
WWIV: WWIV CHAIN.TXT
FILES IN THIS ZIP PACKAGE
-------------------------
VERIFY! EXE <----------- Executable program.
VERIFY! DOC <----------- Document for VERIFY!.EXE - this file.
SETUP EXE <----------- Set up program, sets sysop's variables.
SETUP DOC <----------- Document for SETUP.EXE.
TRAPDOOA BAT <----------- Example of a Trap Door batch file.
TRAPDOOB BAT <----------- Example of a GAME Trap Door batch file.
TEST BAT <----------- Batch file for initial testing.
REGISTER FRM <----------- Fill-Out form for registration.
MEGAHST1 DEF <----------- Sample MEGAHOST drop file for testing.
VERIFY! DAT <----------- Created or adjusted by SETUP.EXE, holds
the reg number, modem strings, phone
numbers for screening, etc.
FIX_DAT EXE <----------- Adjusts the file VERIFY!.DAT. Works only
for upgrading from v2.8 and v2.9 to v3.1a.
FILE_ID DIZ <----------- Description for a BBS file list.
4-TRIBBS ZIP <----------- Support programs for TRIBBS BBS system.
4SPTFIRE ZIP <----------- Support programs for Spitfire BBS system.
OPENSCR ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: Opening screen.
FOUND_EM ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: If caller is already
verified.
INSTRUCT ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: User's instructions.
NOT_NOW ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: If long distance call back
is outside defined times.
DUPENUM ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: If call back number is a
duplicate of other caller.
BADPHNUM ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: If call back number cannot
be called.
SABOTAGE ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: If call back number matches
those defined as UNAUTHOR-
IZED like 911.
CALLING ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: Everything OK, call will
be placed.
RECONECT ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: On reconnection after
call back.
SUCCESS ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: On successful verification.
FAILURE ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: On failed call back.
LDHANGUP ASC/ANS <----------- Output files: On successful call back
and if long distance, just
prior to hang up.
OTHER FILES
-----------
VERIFY!.LST <----------- Created by VERIFY!, contains a list of
verified callers and their phone numbers.
VERIFY! checks this list for duplicate
phone numbers, and to ensure that a caller
isn't verified more than once.
VERIFY!.LOG <----------- Default log file created by VERIFY!, logs
the caller's actions, for sysop's
information, if the /L: switch is not
used.
SETUP
-----
SETUP.EXE must be run prior to going on line. All data, modem
strings, authorized area codes and prefixes, long distance call
back times, registration number, etc., must be edited with this
program. ALT S saves the new data. ALT X exits. Use ALT (n)
for the data windows: ALT R for Registration, etc.
SETUP.DOC explains the setup operation in better detail.
Your calling batch file must be edited, or renamed. TRAPDOOA.BAT
and TRAPDOOB.BAT is supplied to help you start.
VERIFY!.DAT ADJUSTMENT ON UPGRADE
---------------------------------
If you've been using VERIFY!.EXE v2.8 or above, FIX_DAT.EXE will be
run automatically to adjust the binary file VERIFY!.DAT for use with
the current version of VERIFY!.EXE. The extra space in the new data
structure will be blank, but this ensures that VERIFY! will operate
cleanly if you forget to run SETUP.EXE during the upgrade. Run
SETUP.EXE to ensure that all data is in its proper places. The program
FIX_DAT.EXE can be run alone, but is called automatically by
VERIFY!.EXE and SETUP.EXE if the file VERIFY!.DAT is not correct for
this release. FIX_DAT.EXE must reside in the same directory as
VERIFY!.EXE, SETUP.EXE and VERIFY!.DAT.
If upgrading from a release prior to v2.8, VERIFY!.DAT is renamed
to VFY!DAT.OLD and all data must be reentered manually.
REGISTRATION AND SUPPORT
------------------------
This is important! Until VERIFY! is registered with the programmer,
one very important feature is inhibited: The call screening. After
the sysop name and registration number is entered via SETUP.EXE,
you will be able to screen out toll and long distance calls, and
designate the time of day to make these calls. Your number will be
mailed upon receipt of the registration fee.
Without this feature, (BEFORE REGISTRATION), any request to call back
verify is granted! If your BBS is in Los Angeles, Ca., and a caller
from New York, Ny. requests to be verified, YOUR PHONE BILL WILL
REFLECT THIS EXPENSIVE CALL!
With this feature (after registration), you can adjust VERIFY! to
call back verify ONLY local calls, or long distance numbers ONLY
within the area code(s) you designate.
Also, prior to registration, only three (three digit) numbers of
the "Unauthorized Numbers" are screened out. Be sure that the numbers
"911 900 976" are the first three listed for safety. The entire
line is active after registration.
This is a user supported product. VERIFY! represents many hours
of work. This software is Shareware, not free or public domain.
You are granted a 30 day limited license to evaluate this program,
after which you must either register the product, or discontinue its
use. If you choose to register this program, please make out a check
or money order for $15.00 payable to:
Sagerquist Micro Engineering
1414 W. Kerrick St.
Lancaster, Ca. 93534
California residents add 8.25% Sales Tax of $1.24, total: $16.24.
Your registration number will be mailed on receipt of your payment.
It is recommended that you register this program promptly, as the
toll charges for long distance call backs have the potential to far
exceed the $15.00 requested!
Payment is a one time investment which allows you all further revisions
at no extra expense.
Please distribute this program, i.e. place it in your communications
program download area for others to evaluate and use. Your comments
on this program are gladly accepted (requested, actually) at the number
below. Please use the BBS as our communication vehicle. I will gladly
respond to all comments through the BBS.
The Sagerquist Micro Engineering Support BBS
Carl Sagerquist - Programmer/Sysop
300-16800 BAUD 24 Hours
(805) 723-6908
Upgrading a caller's security level while they are online is the most
attractive part of this program. MEGAHOST includes an API program to
perform this task. Other BBS's may or may not do the same. Included
in this package are two ZIP'ed files with support for TRIBBS and
SPITFIRE BBSs. If you cannot locate a program to perform this task,
please contact Carl Sagerquist through The SME Support BBS at
(805) 723-6908 (300 to 16800 baud). Explain in detail how your BBS
operates regarding the upgrade of user security levels, send the
appropriate files (drop file, database files if necessary) and I'll
get to work on it. There's no extra charges for this work, as many
other sysops will then be able to use this product, increasing its
marketability!
Thank you for supporting VERIFY!!
OVERVIEW
--------
VERIFY! was written by request from a MAXIHOST BBS sysop who had
some difficulty with some rude callers. These people would call
under fake names and leave foul messages, upload rude material,
etc. This sysop needed a program that would validate each caller
prior to authorizing access. VERIFY! performs this duty by
returning the call to the user, and comparing the name and password
left behind with the name and password typed in after the call back.
If verified, VERIFY!.LST keeps a ready reference of verified callers
and their phone numbers, and is read by VERIFY! to avoid double
verification, and duplicate phone numbers. After verification, the
callers are accountable, and they know it!
OPERATION
---------
VERIFY! performs a series of steps to complete the task of on-line
verification. The caller is given the opportunity to stop the process
and exit the program, if desired.
1 - Caller is asked if he wants to be verified for access.
2 - The caller's name is compared to the names in the file
VERIFY!.LST. If found, the caller is advised that verification
has already been successful, and the program exits.
3 - Instructions are issued, then caller is asked if he wants to
proceed.
4 - The caller must type in his personal information:
First and last names are placed for the caller.
Caller types in a password.
Caller types in phone number with area code.
Caller is then asked if the information is correct. Process
is repeated if necessary.
5 - Phone number is checked against all others within the file
VERIFY!.LST. If the number provided by the caller is already
in this list, the verification process stops and the caller is
notified to leave a message to the sysop regarding his access.
It could be that this caller is a previous verified user under
a fake name! You might want to place other BBS phone numbers
here, so a prankster won't have your BBS hook to another BBS!
6a- REGISTERED VERSION ONLY: Phone number is checked against the
local prefixes, non-local prefixes, and area codes from
SETUP.EXE. If the area code and/or prefix is not found, the
call is not placed, and the caller is notified to leave a
message to the sysop, regarding BBS access. This controls the
sysop phone bill.
6b- UNREGISTERED VERSION: All requests for call back verify will
be granted. The sysop phone bill will reflect any long distance
call backs! It is recommended that you register this program
promptly, as your increased phone bill will quickly exceed the
registration price if you have a lot of long distance callers!!!
7 - BOTH REGISTERED and UNREGISTERED: Certain calls can be very
expensive. Calls to a 976 prefix or area code 900 can be
extremely costly. From SETUP.EXE, define the unauthorized area
codes or prefixes and these numbers will not be dialed.
The first prankster that gets upset through your use of this
program might try to get even by typing in a 976 number, or 911!
VERIFY!.EXE is one step ahead!
8 - REGISTERED VERSION ONLY: If the call back will be a long distance
number, and it checks out OK, the time is checked to be within the
two times defined from SETUP.EXE. If this function is not
disabled, (with 0 - 0), VERIFY! will either return the call, or
advise the caller of the normal times that his call back can be
placed.
9 - Modem hangs up.
10 - The caller's phone number is dialed.
If another caller tries to call the BBS while the call back
is in progress, VERIFY! will recognize this call and take
the phone line "off hook" for about 2 seconds, then hang up
again. The current process of resetting the modem and calling
is started over.
11 - When the caller answers, he will be given the opportunity to type
in his name and password again. VERIFY! compares this data to
the data left behind before the call back. If it matches, the
caller is advised that he is verified.
12 - If verification is successful, caller is thanked for proper
verification. If the call was local, the caller is returned
to the BBS. If the call was long distance, a message is issued
stating that this is a toll call, and that access will be granted
on next call. The phone line is then disconnected. Without this
feature, the BBS would continue at the sysop's expense. If the
call back was long distance, it could become extremely costly to
the sysop. The UNREGISTERED version WILL disconnect on toll
calls.
13 - The log file is created or appended with information regarding
the caller's actions. The data includes the caller's name, phone
number (if he got that far), the date and time, and the result of
VERIFY!. Results include statements like:
"***** VERIFIED! Local *****", "Carrier lost",
"Decided not to be verified", etc.
The log file is either VERIFY!.LOG, or the file name defined on
the command line with the /L: switch.
14 - On exit of VERIFY!, ERRORLEVELs are returned to the calling
batch file. It is then your responsibility to invoke a BBS
utility program to adjust your caller's BBS security level
or perform what ever duty you need. Even if nothing is done
to the BBS at all, you will have the new name in VERIFY!.LST
with the correct phone number. If you don't understand DOS
ERRORLEVELs, you'll need to review your DOS manual.
AREA CODES AND PREFIXES FROM SETUP.EXE
--------------------------------------
If VERIFY! calls back the user, how can you keep a tab on your
phone bill? This was a major consideration for this program.
There are 6 different number windows in SETUP.EXE:
1 - Local Area Code for the BBS
This is the local area code at the location where the BBS is run.
2 - Unauthorized Numbers
If the caller's AREA CODE or PREFIX matches any three digit number
on this line, then the call is not placed. This protects you
from those very expensive 976 numbers and area code 900 numbers.
This function is operational whether registered or not with one
exception: Only the first three (three digit) numbers are active
prior to registration. Be sure that the first three numbers on this
line are "911 900 976". After registration, the entire line is
active. Then, other numbers like "411 611" should be added, with
any others you may feel necessary.
3 - LOCAL Prefixes
If the caller's area code matches the Local Area Code for the BBS,
then these numbers is checked for a match. If the prefix is found,
then the callback will be a local call, and the dial string will
only contain the 7 digit local number. Defining the local prefixes
allows you to screen out those toll calls that look like local
calls. If this line contains the number 000, then ALL numbers within
the area code will be called, just as they are before registration.
For example: These numbers are in the window of Local Prefixes:
943 944 945 948 949 723 722 264
and the Local Area Code for the BBS is 805.
(805) 723-6908 is the caller's number. The caller's area code 805
matches the BBS's area code, so the Local line is searched for the
prefix 723. 723 is found, so the dialed number will be 7236908.
If the prefix is not found, the next set of numbers labeled
"Authorized toll prefixes within the local area code" is checked.
4 - Authorized toll prefixes within the local area code
If the caller's area code matches the Local Area Code for the BBS,
and the caller's prefix is NOT found among the Local Prefixes, then
this group of numbers is checked for the caller's prefix. If the
prefix is found, then the callback will be an authorized toll call
within the local area code. The dial string will only contain the
7 digit number. If this line contained the number 000, then ALL
numbers within the area code will be called, just as they are before
registration.
For example: These numbers are on the line of
Authorized toll prefixes...:
724 942
The search in 3 above was unsuccessful, so this line is searched for
the prefix. (805) 942-0889 is the caller's number. The line is
searched for the prefix 942. 942 is found, so the dialed number
will be 9420889. If the prefix is not found, then the call back
is not within the local area code. This allows you to designate the
toll calls within your local area code you will allow to be called.
Depending on your entry from SETUP.EXE, the number dialed here may
or may not begin with a '1'. The number in this example will either
be 9420889 or 19420889.
5 - Metro Numbers
If the caller's number isn't found within the local or toll numbers,
the metro numbers are checked.
Metro numbers are defined as local calls to another area code. There
may be up to 9 metro area codes defined. The caller's area code is
compared to these area codes. If there's a match, the caller's prefix
is compared with the set of prefixes attached to the metro area code.
If there's a match (area code and prefix), the number is accepted as
a metro number. The number is dialed with the area code, prefixed
with a '1' if necessary. Since this is actually a local call at no
charge to the sysop, the caller is not disconnected after verification.
6 - Authorized long distance area codes
If the caller's area code does not match the BBS's, the prefix
checks are skipped, and this group of numbers is searched for the
area code. If it is found, the number is called. If the number
000 is in this window, then ALL long distance calls will be placed,
just as they are before registration.
For example: These numbers are within the Area Code Window:
602 818 213
(602) 555-1212 is the caller's number. 602 is found, but the number
is incomplete. First, the number 1 is appended to the dial string,
then the full number, resulting in the dial string being 16025551212.
If the area code is still not found, then the call is not placed.
SYSOP HAS FULL CONTROL OF WHAT NUMBERS MAY BE CALLED!
(REGISTERED VERSION ONLY!!!!!)
NOTE: If the number called is a toll call (inside or outside the local
area code), the line will hang up (be disconnected) after
verification. This controls the sysop phone bill. Caller is
advised that access is authorized on next call.
REDIALS
-------
VERIFY! can reattempt the phone call if the first attempt does not
work. Often, an unsuspecting family member will pickup the phone
on VERIFY!'s call back and break the modem connection. Sometimes,
a caller is confused and just needs to try it more than once.
Designate the amount of redial attempts through SETUP.EXE, Other
window.
When the modem disconnects and prepares for the call back, its
possible for other BBS callers to try to log on. VERIFY!.EXE will
intercept this incomming call. VERIFY!.EXE will take the phone
line "off hook" for aprox. 2 seconds, then hang up. The current
call back attempt is then restarted. This does not constitute one
of the call back attempts defined through SETUP.EXE. If call back
attempt number 1 is interrupted with an incomming call, then call
back attempt number 1 is reattempted until the modem finds a dial
tone and actually dials out. If this dialing is unsuccessful, then
call back attempt number 2 is started.
TOLL CALL BACK HOURS
--------------------
Most long distance carriers (phone companies) offer reduced rates
within certain times. You can define your call back time for
long distance calls to be within these times. These times are
defined in SETUP.EXE, Other window. The numbers to be placed
are the hours from the 24 hour clock. 1:00 pm is 13, 12:00 am is
24, etc. Hours only, no minutes.
Example: 21 6 is for performing long distance call backs
between 9:00 pm and 6:00 am.
If you do not require screening your long distance call back time,
place the number 0 (zero) for both: 0 0 to disable this
function, allowing long distance call back at any time.
OUTPUT ASCII/ANSI FILES
-----------------------
The output files previously listed, are displayed during the operation
of VERIFY!. They are named to give an idea of its objective:
INSTRUCT.ANS is the ANSI color file that instructs the caller how to
be verified, SUCCESS.ASC is the non-color file thats displayed on
successful verification, etc. They may be edited to your liking.
Do not include any more than one blank line after all the text in
these files, or correct output may be compromised. The same is true
if you exceed 23 lines, as none of the files will pause with a full
screen.
Any screen clearing in ANSI mode must be included in the .ANS file.
VERIFY! does not automatically perform this duty.
VERIFY!'s output may be personalized by placing the caller's name
into the files! Place the '' character (from the <CTRL> E) and
it will be replaced with the caller's first name. Place the ''
(from the <CTRL> F) and it will be replaced with the caller's last
name. Be sure to leave room on the line for these characters to
expand to names, or the line might get cut in half.
For example:
Hello, . Would you like to be call back verified for a higher access level?
Will be transmitted looking like this:
Hello, Carl Sagerquist. Would you like to be call back verified for a higher ac
cess level?
Obviously, not desirable appearance. Remember to leave room for the
names to be inserted to the line.
CARRIER MONITOR
---------------
VERIFY! monitors the Carrier Detect. If a caller hangs up, or gets
disconnected, VERIFY! will exit clean and return to the BBS. The
BBS will then reset and await the next call. You can test this
feature by typing the ~ character at any prompt.
TIME LIMIT
----------
The caller has 60 seconds to complete each entry, or carrier is
dropped and the program exits. That way, if your caller's computer
freezes, you aren't stuck on line! This feature was added to
disallow remote's control of the carrier. Without this feature, the
call back could last as long as the remote caller would allow. If
the call back was long distance, your phone bill could sink you.
You can test this feature by typing the (^A) character at any prompt
or waiting 60 seconds without input.
ALTERNATE OPERATION
-------------------
If you want to use VERIFY! to screen users of on-line games, place a
copy of VERIFY!.EXE and its data files in the game directory. Copy
DOOR.SYS (or the appropriate BBS file) to this directory. The game
Trap Door must be available to all callers. After verification,
allow entry into the game. On exit of the door, run your BBS utility
program for adjusting security levels for the caller's next entry.
BATCH file commands should check the security level of the caller and
he/she should be entered into the VERIFY! program, or directly into
the game. This protects the BBS game door from having callers play
under multiple names, because two callers cannot be automatically
verified from the same originating phone number. If its legitimate,
like brother and sister both want to play the game, the message left
to the sysop will explain, and you'll have to manually adjust the
security for that player. See the file TRAPDOOB.BAT included in
this ZIP package for an example of this operation.
BBS ADJUSTMENTS
---------------
VERIFY! does no adjustments to your BBS itself. You, as sysop, are
responsible to code your calling batch file appropriately to effect
change. The returned ERRORLEVELs from VERIFY! will allow you to
to do this.
MEGAHOST includes the file MEGA_API.EXE to adjust a caller's security
level while the caller is on line.
4-TRIBBS.ZIP, included with this package, contains TRISEC.EXE which
will adjust the caller's security level while the caller is on line
for a TriBBS BBS.
4SPTFIRE.ZIP, included with this package, contains SFSEC.EXE which
will adjust the caller's security level while the caller is on line
for a SPITFIRE BBS.
Other BBSs can be supported, too. If you need a utility to make
the adjustments, send a message to the sysop on The SME Support BBS
at (805) 723-6908, and I'll get to work on it!
ERRORLEVELS
-----------
VERIFY! will return different errorlevels for further processing
by the calling batch file:
ERRORLEVEL 0 means the caller is verified, and all data matched.
Call back was LOCAL.
ERRORLEVEL 1 means the caller is verified, and all data matched.
Call back was LONG DISTANCE.
ERRORLEVEL 2 means the caller has already been verified.
ERRORLEVEL 3 means the caller reentered the wrong data on callback.
Caller not verified.
ERRORLEVEL 4 means no modem on callback. Caller not verified.
ERRORLEVEL 5 means the caller's phone number duplicates another
verified caller's phone number. Could be a bogus call.
ERRORLEVEL 6 means the callback phone number is not authorized.
ERRORLEVEL 7 means long distance callback not within time envelope.
ERRORLEVEL 8 means the caller typed an unauthorized number like 911.
ERRORLEVEL 10 means the caller decided not to be verified.
ERRORLEVEL 15 means the remote input time limit (60 seconds) exceeded.
ERRORLEVEL 20 means carrier was dropped.
ERRORLEVEL 30 means the BBS file (DOOR.SYS, DORINFO1.DEF, CALLINFO.BBS,
CHAIN.TXT) cannot be found, or another file could not be
be opened or created.
ERRORLEVEL 35 means an unsupported COM port is in use.
ERRORLEVEL 40 means the log file could not be written to.
ERRORLEVEL 50 means VERIFY!.DAT is invalid, SETUP.EXE must be run.
ERRORLEVEL 60 means VERIFY!.EXE could not disconnect (drop carrier).
SAMPLE BATCH FILE FOR MEGAHOST
------------------------------
@echo off
CLS
C:
CD\MEGAHOST\VERIFY!
VERIFY! /B:MH1 /D:C:\MEGAHOST\DATA /L:C:\MEGAHOST\DATA\MEGAHST1.LOG
IF ERRORLEVEL 1 IF NOT ERRORLEVEL 2 goto SET
IF ERRORLEVEL 0 IF NOT ERRORLEVEL 1 goto SET
GOTO END
:SET
CD\MEGAHOST
rem MEGAAPI1 svc 5 will increase the caller's security while on line.
rem MEGAAPI1 svc 7 will increase the caller's time limit while on line.
MEGAAPI1 5 10, 7 60
:END
CD\MEGAHOST\UPLOADS
PRANKSTER CONTROL
-----------------
If everyone was honest and respectful, there would be no need for this
program. Some people spray paint on walls. Some people throw rocks
through windows. The same mentality will call a BBS incognito and
raise havoc with the sysop and his users through foul messages,
uploaded dirty files, etc. When a prankster is caught by this program,
he may feel a desire to get even. This program was written with this
prankster mentality in mind. The controlling features are:
1 - 60 second timer for user input. A caller cannot hook you to his
computer indefinitely, thus controlling your phone bill (long
distance/toll calls).
2 - No duplicate phone numbers on automatic verify.
- A new caller with the same phone number of a previously verified
caller could be the same person under a different name!
- A prankster might try to make your BBS hook up to another BBS!
Place ALL possible BBS numbers into the file VERIFY!.LST, and
this will not happen!
3 - Numbers defined as UNAUTHORIZED NUMBERS (through SETUP.EXE) are
screened out. A prankster might try to make your computer call
a 976 or area code 900 number. Also, if the call back was
911-####, the 911 would connect you to the emergency dispatch in
your city! These numbers should be placed in the window labeled:
UNAUTHORIZED NUMBERS through SETUP.EXE. The first three (three
digit) numbers of this line are operational prior to registration.
4 - Long distance numbers are not called unless the area code is
designated. (REGISTERED VERSION ONLY). Lets face it, even honest
people will use this program without compensation to the programmer
if every feature was operational! Use caution, though, ALL long
distance calls are placed until VERIFY! is registered, and your
phone bill will quickly exceed the registration fee requested.
5 - Log file appended after caller is done. The result of the caller's
actions are placed in the file VERIFY!.LOG with the date and time,
or the log file defined on the command line.
If you find a need for more techniques on handling pranksters, please
make the suggestion via The S M E Support BBS at (805) 723-6908.
KNOWN PROBLEMS
--------------
During the disconnect of the modem and call back, ATZ (modem reset)
is sent to the host modem. This could cause trouble with some BBSs
if the default values set with ATZ do not match the initialization
string of the BBS.
To correct this, append your BBS's initialization string with &W.
The &W should be the last item before the CR at the end of the
string. What this does is write the string to the modem's non-
volatile memory. ATZ then resets the modem with these values. Then,
leave the initialization string in VERIFY!'s SETUP.EXE blank, or
place ATZ as the initialization string.
For a modem that has no nonvolatile memory, use this initialization
string to make the proper settings.
CREDITS
-------
Many thanks to Tim Gimber of Phoenix, AZ., who suggested this program,
directed its features, and tested its operation.
Many thanks to David Swift of Waldorf, MD., for advising me of the
fatal error fixed with revision 2.2. This problem didn't occur on
my modem, and I still don't understand why. VERIFY! is now
compatible with many more modems.
Many thanks to Kent Craig of Vincennes, IN., for advising me of the
methods used by the Indiana phone system: Toll Local numbers there
require the number to begin with a '1'. Now, through SETUP.EXE,
the sysop may choose to prefix a Toll Local number with a '1'.
Verify! is now compatible with more phone systems.
Thanks to Raymond Swigirt of Baltimore, MD., for requesting room
necessary to handle all 281 of the local prefixes available in
Baltimore. The suggestion motivated me to revise the serial port
routines, command line switches, and shared file access for multi-
tasking environments.
Thanks to James Mann of Littlerock, CA. for requesting the TRIBBS
support programs and testing them online.
Thanks to Robert Massman of Dallas TX. for his guidance on VERIFY!'s
support of TRIBBS v4.2, and for testing VERIFY!.EXE revision 3.0's
support for "Metro Numbers" prior to release.
Thanks to Rick Bretz of Columbus, OH. for his guidance in fixing the
error found when VERIFY! disconnects on a long distance unsuccessful
verify, and for requesting the feature that intercepts a BBS call
during the call back process. Thanks for the effort!
Thanks to Marc Neveux of Thousand Oaks, CA., for identifying the
error when a caller with a one word name tries to be verified.
Thanks to Debbie Engwiller of Rosamond, CA. for requesting the
user editable ASCII/ANSI output files for customizing VERIFY!'s
output.
Thanks (again) to Robert Massman of Dallas TX. for his continued
persistance to keep VERIFY!.EXE up to date with "Ma Bell" in the
Dallas, TX area with enough Local numbers and Metro numbers.
Thanks to Gloria Short of the BRAIN STORM LEARNING BBS, HOUSTON,
TX for the help received to make VERIFY! operational with the
RoboBoard BBS.
Thanks to Doug Torneden of Irving, TX for the suggestion to have
VERIFY!.EXE echo all modem commands and result messages to the screen.
Internal modem BBSs can now see the modem processing.
DISCLAIMER
----------
This program is distributed as is. No warranty, either expressed or
implied is offered and the programmer is not responsible for any
damages or expenses that may occur through the use of this program.
The user shall determine its suitability. Please communicate any
difficulties with the programmer through the BBS at (805) 723-6908.
History
-------
Version 3.4 - 02/01/94 - Added the SABOTAGE.ASC/ANS screen when a
caller types in an area code or prefix that
matches one of the defined UNAUTHORIZED
numbers.
- Added 15 more lines of Local Prefixes in a
third Local Prefix window.
- Tripled the amount of definable Metro Numbers
through two more Metro Number windows.
- Added support for RoboBoard BBS through
DORINFO#.DEF.
- Modem commands/results now echoed to the
local screen.
Version 3.3 - 12/19/93 - Revised output: Most output now comes
from ASCII/ANSI files. The sysop may
alter VERIFY!'s appearance.
Version 3.2 - 11/21/93 - Modem interrupts cleared prior to exit
removing erroneous error response.
- RBBS# command line switch fixed.
- Fixed problem in name comparison caused
when a caller logs on with a one word name.
- Added the command line switch RENEGADE#
(/B:RENEGADE1) to support the Renegade BBS.
Version 3.1a - 09/07/93 - Discovered error in support for AUNTIE BBS,
in the opening of AUNTIE.SYS. Fixed.
Version 3.1 - 09/06/93 - Added code to intercept an incomming call
when the callback sequence has begun.
- Removed command line switch TRIBBS_D
since the support programs are written to
work only with TRIBBS.SYS, not DOOR.SYS.
- Command line switch TRIBBS_T altered to
TRIBBS (/B:TRIBBS).
- Removed command line switch RA for use with
DOOR.SYS. RA now will only work with the
more useful file DORINFOx.BBS.
- Added AUNTIE BBS to supported list through
command line switch /B:AUNTIE.
- Added PROBOARD BBS to supported list through
command line switch /B:PROBOARD# where the #
is the node number.
Version 3.0 - 08/15/93 - Support for Metro Numbers added.
- If upgrading from v2.8 or 2.9, the file
VERIFY!.DAT is automatically adjusted
through FIX_DAT.EXE to ensure a clean
operation should you forget to make the
data adjustments through SETUP.EXE. New
variables in VERIFY!.DAT are blank,
waiting for later input.
- Utilities for TRIBBS adjusted for use with
TRIBBS v4.02. Previous release supported
v3.3 only.
- Added the command line switch VBBS (/B:VBBS)
to support the Virtual BBS/NET, AKA VBBS.
- PCBoard now supported through PCBOARD.SYS.
- VERIFY!.LOG entries altered to conform to
TRIBBS's log entry format. Should look
good in all applications.
Version 2.9 - 07/11/93 - Utilities created for security level
adjustment on a TRIBBS BBS, through
TRIBBS.SYS.
- Fatal error found: If all data in the
file VERIFY!.LST is removed, yet the zero
length file still exists, the program
would freeze. FIXED!
Version 2.8 - 04/04/93 - Comm port routines overhauled. Now, all
data transmitted and received is interrupt
driven, and more thorough error checking
is performed.
- All file access is performed in share mode.
Files are "locked" prior to writing which
allows for a clean operation in a multi-
tasking environment where a multi-line BBS
might be operating VERIFY! simultaneously
on more than one node.
- Command line switches overhauled.
- VERIFY! may now log its actions into the
BBS's log file through the /L: command
line switch.
- Amount of definable local prefixes is now
510, double from v2.6.
- MEGAHOST now supported through MEGAHST#.DEF
rather than DOOR.SYS.
- TRIBBS now supported through TRIBBS.SYS and
DOOR.SYS.
- WILDCAT! v3.0+ now supported through the
new format of DOOR.SYS.
Version 2.7 - ??/??/?? - Beta test only, not released to the public.
Version 2.6 - 04/24/92 - Local Prefixes, Toll Local Prefixes, and
L/D Area Codes are increased from 3 lines
to 9 lines of 67 characters.
- Toll Local call back number may be prefixed
with a 1 if necessary. Use SETUP.EXE to
make the adjustment.
Version 2.5 - 04/08/92 - Added an option allowing the caller to quit.
For example:
"Are you ready to proceed? (Y/n)"
is replaced with
"Are you ready to proceed? (Y/n/q)"
where 'Y' is default, and 'Q' exits the
program.
- SETUP.EXE adjusted. New features:
- If data is changed, you are prompted to save.
- <CTRL> Right Arrow moves the curser to the
beginning of the next number in the "Numbers"
window.
- <CTRL> Left Arrow moves the curser to the
beginning of the previous number in the
"Numbers" window.
- Up Arrow/Down arrow moves to different lines
in the "Numbers" window.
Version 2.4 - 01/01/92 - SETUP.EXE added to automate the setup
operation. All data from SETUP.EXE is
written to VERIFY!.DAT, which is now a
binary structure file.
- VERIFY!.NUM is no longer needed.
- MAXIHOST no longer listed as supported
since M-VERIFY v 1.09 is still available.
Version 2.3 - 12/15/91 - Beta test version not released.
Version 2.2 - 12/10/91 - Fatal error found with some modems (not mine)
that would disrupt the comm port interrupts.
Unnecessary code removed that set some modem
parameters. Thanks, Dave!
- More BBS's supported:
PcBoard
Remote Access
Teleguard
TGP
WWIV
Version 2.1 - 10/14/91 - Bug in toll/long distance call timer fixed.
- When the toll/ld call is screened out, the
current time is displayed before the message
explaining the time window for toll calls.
- Caller is now informed how many attempts
will be made to call back and connect.
Version 2.0 - 10/10/91 - Program renamed from M-VERIFY to VERIFY!.
- Supports MAXIHOST, MEGAHOST, QBBS, RBBS,
PCBoard, and WILDCAT. Syntax different
while retaining the old method.
- No adjustments to MAXIHOST or its assoc'd
files anymore.
- ERRORLEVELS returned. The sysop must make
the appropriate adjustments to the BBS
depending on the ERRORLEVEL returned.
Version 1.09 - 11/29/91 - Modem parameters (BAUD, Parity, Stop bits,
and Character length) are no longer set.
This was causing trouble with some modems.
Unfortunately, not mine. This may have
been the culprit causing trouble with
earlier versions. These parameters are
set by the BBS anyway, so there's no harm
in removing this code. Same code removed
from version 2.1.
Version 1.08 - 09/16/91 - Sorry about that, another bug got by me.
Version 1.07 - 09/16/91 - Some code rewritten for efficiency and
safety. No changes in operation from 1.06.
Version 1.06 - 09/15/91 - Fixed FATAL ERROR in delay function that
violated memory not its own which eventually
caused system to crash.
Version 1.05 - 08/09/91 - 'REDIALS = ' added to M-VERIFY.DAT to
control the amount of attempts to recontact
the caller.
Version 1.04 - 08/07/91 - Long Distance call back time now definable,
since most long distance carriers allow for
cheaper rates at different times.
- Removed the advertisement at beginning of
output on registered version.
Version 1.03 - 07/28/91 - Fixed bug in log file entry that says
"**** VERIFIED (Long Distance) ****"
when caller really "Already Verified".
- Fixed bug that created M-VERIFY.LOG in the
root directory if M-VERIFY.EXE was called
without the proper command line parameters.
Version 1.02 - 07/26/91 - Registration required. Without the reg #,
all call backs are placed regardless of the
area code or resultant phone charges. Call
back screening enabled with registration.
- M-VERIFY now screens OUT certain area codes
or prefixes, like 976 and 900, while author-
ized numbers are screened IN. (Sysop can
define these numbers in M-VERIFY.NUM).
- M-VERIFY now checks for toll calls within
the local area code. Caller is disconnected
after verification if callback is a toll
call.
- ERRORLEVELs 1 through 5 become 2 through 6,
and ERRORLEVEL 1 redefined: ERRORLEVEL 1
returned if caller is verified and call back
is long distance. ERRORLEVEL 0 if call back
is local.
Version 1.01 - 07/21/91 - Delay added after "Returning Your Call" sent,
as it was being cut off by hanging up too
quick.
- Bug in hangup routine: After verification,
if call back was long distance, dropping DTR
wasn't enough to disconnect. Hangup routine
fixed.
Version 1.0 - 07/19/91 - Initial release.
Version 0.2 - 07/14/91 - Beta test released to requesting official,
not to be released to public. Partially
completed.
Version 0.1 - 07/09/91 - Beta test released to requesting official,
not to be released to public. Partially
completed.