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Guide 9. I'm online. Now what?
Internet security (screen 7 of 8)
Is spending money on the Internet safe?
It's not unusual for both sellers and buyers to feel insecure about doing business online. There have been stories in the press about hackers stealing credit card numbers and so on.
Internet security is developing all the time. Both Netscape and Internet Explorer support a secure transactions protocol and major players like VISA are also involved in the development of secure online transaction systems.
The Australian Government Information Management Office (AGIMO) is working on a variety of projects to encourage e-commerce take-up and to promote the effective use of online technology. Information on E-security initiatives is also available through the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy.
You can create a secure site if you utilise existing technologies. The technology and the legislative requirements are changing rapidly so you might want to get expert advice on the best way of developing a secure site for Internet transactions.
Hackers are another security issue
Hackers try to gain access to your computer or computer network through your connection to the Internet. Once there they can cause substantial problems, since in effect they can control your computers and have access to anything on them.
A way of reducing the risk of hackers getting into your system is to create a firewall. This consists of computer hardware and software which prevent unauthorised people from gaining access to your network. They can view and interact with your Web screens, but they cannot go any further. An effective firewall can be expensive.
If you establish a presence on the Internet, you should have a firewall in place. If your website is hosted by an ISP, they should already have a firewall in place.
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