Security and the Internet

6. E-commerce

6.1 Treat transactions made on your website with caution.

It is easy for customers to assume a false identity online, or use someone else's credit card.

• Follow your normal procedures.
• Consider using digital signatures and certification to confirm someone's identity.

6.2 You need a secure payment mechanism.

• Ensure that payment details handled over the Internet are processed using secure technology (eg secure socket layers).
• Consider handling payments using traditional methods. For example, include product and ordering information on your website, but handle the final payment by post or telephone.

6.3 Building trust is important.

• Advertise the security features of your website on the site.
• Apply to join a Trust-UK affiliated scheme, such as Which? Web Trader. The schemes set certain standards for e-commerce that will give consumers added confidence when buying from your site.