Security is an important issue on the Internet. But the reason for security being so important is not really that there are so many problems. The reason is that so many people think there are many problems. Even when research shows this is not true.

On the contrary: Web-based transactions can be, in many cases, safer than those taking place over the phone or even in shops built with bricks and mortar.

A shop on the Internet can be best compared with a mail or phone order business. Customers buy products from you without you actually seeing them or their credit card. And you are in charge. They can not walk into your shop to steal your items. You don't have to send ordered goods, if you are suspicious of an order.

According to VISA and MasterCard transactions via the Internet pose no extra risk to customers compared to mail or phone orders if you follow some simple rules.

Other research has shown that companies selling via the Internet actually experience less problems than their phone and mail order counterparts in the real world - partly because of the fraud protection services at their disposal, such as those provided by GlobeCharge. 

Because if you use common sense, the Internet can be a safer business environment than the real world.

The next two chapters will help you on the way.