Signing on the digital line [e-commerce]

The dramatic expansion of the Internet, fuelled by the World Wide Web, has made the widespread use of electronic trading. or e-commerce, a serious possibility. Markets are certainly changing. but, in this 'brave new world' certain essential principles still apply. To a greater or lesser degree, any commercial transaction relies on the twin functions of value and identity. Value is always present, represented by the need to pay for goods and services; identity is sometimes more of an option. If you're paying for something with cash, then the vendor isn't going to be too worried about your identity. Conversely, if you're using a cheque or credit card, then proof of identity can be very important indeed. In e-commerce, where all transactions are conducted cash-free and at a distance, then the issues of value and identity are absolutely crucial. This article looks at the secure management of identity and value within the context of Internet-based transactions, illustrated by examples drawn from the work of the e-commerce consultancy Consult Hyperion.