Security
Matters
Transfer of
Data
One of the major factors preventing
consumers from shopping on-line is concern over security issues, and in
particular the security of credit card information. As a result companies with
an interest in promoting electronic transactions have developed various secure
payment systems ranging from the use of encryption to protect credit card
details, to the development of new methods of payment such as electronic cash
systems that involve the exchange of digital payment tokens directly between
the parties.
To create trust and confidence,
e-businesses must choose the payment system carefully and an encryption system
and details about data security during data transfer should be provided on the
Website.
Secure transfer of data is just as
important to businesses - in cases of misuse of sensitive data, especially
credit card numbers and bank details, the burden of proof is with the supplier.
Credit card companies are quick to do a chargeback (ie demand the payment back
from the retailer) whenever a consumer has a complaint about an on-line
sale.
Discuss this issue with your bank
when establishing a merchant account to accept credit card payment over the
Internet. Also ensure that your payment system is secure - not only the
software, but staff collecting payment, printed documents with credit card
data, etc.
Computer Misuse
Act
The Computer Misuse Act makes it a
criminal offence to try to access systems for which you have no authorisation
or t o knowingly transmit a virus to cause damage. Unknowingly transmitting a
virus, whilst not an offence, could result in a civil action for
negligence.
Guidance on a variety of issues relating
to e-commerce can be found at www.ukonlineforbusiness.gov.uk
Please Note
This leaflet is not an authoritative
interpretation of the law and is intended only for guidance.
Trading Standards Division, 3rd Floor, Wallasey Town Hall, Brighton Street, Wallasey, Wirral CH44 8ED
Telephone: (0151) 691 8020 Fax: (0151) 691 8098
Internet World Wide Web http://www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/wirral/
Electronic Mail: tradingstandards@wirral.gov.uk
