Trust in E-commerce and E-government

Electronic delivery of Government services could bring great benefits: simplified administration, better service, and reductions in costs and fraud. The Internet and digital TV could also enable more frequent and interactive public participation in the policymaking process.

But manual and legacy systems may have to continue in parallel for a generation. Panacea security solutions often prove flawed or unworkable in practice. The track record of Government IT projects is far from promising.

"Magic bullets" such as digital signatures and public-key infrastructures rarely provide the benefits claimed by their proponents to government or commerce.

And there is growing public concern that new technologies will enable public authorities to collate an unprecedented amount of information about individuals. Increased efficiency, security and research efficacy have all been used as justifications for the invasion of citizens' privacy.

How can policy makers assess the risks, rewards and rival claims of the many stakeholders?

> The UK e-Democracy Consultation
> Confidentiality of medical records
> E-commerce: Who Carries the Risk of Fraud?
> The Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000