Your Potential Customers Fear Online Fraud

February 6th, 2006

Now more than ever, online retailers need to demonstrate credibility and integrity. Public inclination seems to be leaning away from doing business online.

According to John Soat of Information Week, an IBM survey on computer security reveals that people (in this case technical people) are more afraid of online fraud than of being held up on the street.

How can small businesses demonstrate that they are legitimate and have done their best to secure their Web sites?

Post your privacy policy
Demonstrate that your shopping cart is secure. First, actually secure it with an SSL. Then use a badge or link to your security information.
Post your fair, open, and generous returns policy if you deal in physical merchandise.
Post your physical address on each page
Post your telephone number prominently and invite customers to call if they have any problems or reservations with purchasing online.

I’m sure there are many more steps that can be taken to combat the fear of online crime. I’ll share more as I think of them.