Security implications of electronic commerce: a survey of consumers and businesses

Examines the general requirement for security technologies in order to provide a basis for trust in the e‐commerce environment. The discussion is supported by the findings from two surveys, conducted by the authors, among general Internet users (i.e. potential target consumers) and commercial businesses. These surveys considered both the attitudes to e‐commerce in general and opinions relating to the associated security requirements. Attempts were also made to assess the respondent’s knowledge of the existing security safeguards that may be applied. The survey results suggest that, while there is significant concern among Internet‐based consumers regarding the security of their purchasing activities, these are outweighed by the merits offered by the medium. The results also suggested a lack of awareness or understanding of the security technologies that are available and it is concluded that overcoming this problem would help to establish a wider foundation of trust in the new technology.