Internet, the global matrix of networks connects together a myriad of heterogeneous computers, routers, and sub-networks communicating with each other using the TCP/IP suite of communication protocols. The Internet, which started as a tool reserved for military, scientific and academic exchange, has metamorphosed into a tool of everyday life, accessible from almost every point on the earth. It was designed to be decentralized; any host on the network can communicate with another as peer; the TCP/IP suite of communications protocols is in the public domain, and the standardization process is open.
The Internet is highly redundant, offering the ability to route data along alternate paths; it has proved to reliably transmit information packets from source to destination, routing them through a number of intermediate nodes. It is possible for someone, on an intermediate node that handles the packets, to re-assemble them and read, copy, alter or delete the information. In the case where the data transmitted (e.g., email) can't be delivered to the final recipient, it must be stored at an intermediate node, where it is susceptible to any number of security threats: though these threats are relatively low, they are present and a concern, specially where the packets contain sensitive electronic commerce transactions.
Regardless of the origins, the threat that information sent over a network is read, copied, altered, or deleted in an unauthorized way, is a possibility that exists. Even where the information itself is encrypted the header information is in plain text, and rogue nodes on the network can do traffic analysis. Internet commerce, popularly called ecommerce, is based on inter-operable, electronic data interchange standards. Ecommerce has the potential to deliver huge profits to business; however, this must not be done at the expense of the econsumers.
In this paper we briefly look at ecommerce from the point of view of the consumer, many of whom have yet to be introduced to this phenomenon enabled by the development of Internet, World Wide Web and ever more affordable computers. This combination is rapidly transforming the way consumers communicate, and buy and sell goods and services. providing them around the clock access to business operating out of any corner of the world. While this potential to provide unparalleled benefits to consumers continues to expand, concern that it also has a flip side wherein it can be used as a powerful tool for those who wish to commit unethical or unlawful acts not only against the unwary consumer but also against societies2.