Title: The cost of electronic retailing: prevalent security threats and their results

Authors: B. Dawn Medlin, Adriana Romaniello

Addresses: Department of Computer Information Systems, John A. Walker College of Business, Appalachian State University, Boone, North Carolina, 28608, USA. ' Department of Management, Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Paseo de los Artilleros, s/n Madrid, 28032, Spain

Abstract: Development and innovative applications of e-commerce transactions, as well as the integration of available technology, can provide an organisation with a unique opportunity to remain competitive within today|s global business environment. Although technology plays an important role in gaining a competitive advantage for organisations worldwide, information technology professionals, consumers and e-retailers are becoming increasingly aware of the potential harmful impact of the misuse of these same technologies. This paper introduces some of the most prevalent and current security threats such as the introduction of malware, information disclosure, piracy of information and other malicious activities that both e-retailers and consumers face, as well as how each participant can assist in the defence of their own online transactions. In addition, specific recommendations are made in order to protect the system from further harm.

Keywords: e-retailing; security threats; consumers; system protection; e-tailing; e-commerce; electronic commerce; malware; information disclosure; information piracy; online transactions; information protection; data protection.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEMR.2008.016818

International Journal of Electronic Marketing and Retailing, 2008 Vol.2 No.1, pp.80 - 96

Published online: 24 Jan 2008 *

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