Check out the sampling of news headlines below about the risks associated with e-commerce and online activities, just from this week!
U.S. domain deregulation could fragment World Wide Web into ‘Splinternet’
Facebook, Google users threatened by new security flaw
http://www.foxnews.com/tech/2014/05/05/facebook-google-users-threatened-by-new-security-flaw/
Online buyer, beware: Dangerous fake goods thrive on Web
http://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/2014/04/30/counterfeit-sites-dark-web-series/6374451/
Data breach alert: Small retailers are especially vulnerable
http://www.foxnews.com/tech/2014/05/02/data-breach-alert-small-retailers-are-especially-vulnerable/
Now, there is certainly some good news about being online – but you know what happens to good news – it does not travel far! We have seen tremendous growth in online business and e-commerce over the last few years, despite of all of the associated bad news we are inundated with practically every day. Although, such bad news has certainly had some impact on online activities, as there has been a leveling off of selected types of online business – such as in the banking industry, as illustrated in the chart below.
What would happen if our concerns regarding security and privacy did not inhibit our completely embracing online technology and business? Well, my guess is that we could not keep up with the demand – for more digital devices, more web hosting, more staff dedicated to online support, and so on. Additionally, traditional retailers would not have as much time to adapt to the transition of business – that’s already moving faster than most can handle.
OK – I’ll stop short of saying that a little trouble with e-security and privacy is a good thing. Nevertheless, we are certainly learning a lot (what not to do), and hopefully laying a strong foundation for the additional growth that is coming – about as quick as we can handle – and no faster!
Hi David,
ReplyDeleteI think this is a good topic to bring up! I especially liked that you had facts in there to back yourself up. It’s definitely interesting to see how online banking levels have kind of plateaued though! I would think each year, even with just new checking/savings accounts started by younger individuals that are in love with everything technological that it would grow at least a little bit. The over all idea of your post is interesting as well - makes you wonder how we're going to handle that transition, because in my opinion, I don't think we're that far off from that possibility happening.
Mandy -- I appreciate your input! I agree that if we can get some of the security/privacy issues resolved, or at least settled down, we will be off to the races in terms of even faster adoption of online transactions of all types. Thanks!
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