Data Security


There are two types of reliable security technologies currently available for online purchases. Both technologies involve the encryption, or scrambling, of data before it is sent over the Internet. Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) provides sound privacy protection by encrypting the channel between the consumer and the merchant. Because the data sent over the channel is secure, SSL is sufficient security when doing business with merchants you know and trust. To find out if your transaction is secured by SSL, check for the unbroken key or closed lock symbol in the frame of your browser window. Or check the merchant's URL - it should change from "http" to "https" when processing secure transactions. Both the Netscape Navigator and Microsoft Internet Explorer browsers use SSL. While SSL is a reliable option for today, Visa has partnered with other industry leaders to develop SET Secure Electronic Transaction™, a technology for maximum online payment security.[1].

In addition to encrypting payment information, SET makes online transactions even safer by enabling consumers and merchants to verify that they are both authorized to use and accept Visa cards. It's the electronic equivalent of a consumer looking for a Visa decal in a merchant's store window, and a merchant checking the consumer's signature on the back of a Visa card. Merchants worldwide are currently adopting SET. SET Secure Electronic Transaction technology is designed to enable secure payment card purchases on any type of online network, including the Internet. By using sophisticated digital certificates, SET makes the Internet a safe place for conducting business.[2].

SET focuses on authenticating the parties involved in a transaction, ensuring message integrity, and maintaining confidentiality of information. The SET specification is an open specification available from several software and browser providers.

Useful links of information on Data Security

Secure Electronic Commerce. Private company website. Contains lots of information about SET. Year 1998.
http://www.setco.org[back to text]

Pang, Albert (1998, Nov.18). Enough Security Already?. PC Week (on line)
http://www.setco.org[back to text]

References

[1] What is SET?. IBM Corporation, 1988. http://www.software.ibm.com/commerce/payment/whatisset.html[back to text]

[2] Korzeniowsky, Paul. (Jan.19,1998) E-Commerce debates risks. PC Week, v15, p.100.[back to text]