Microsoft and Netscape have also focused on the privacy issue, and are implementing various consumer privacy protection their Internet browsers. Lack of proper confidentiality and privacy protections can lead to both legal and business problems. For example, Experian, Inc. offered consumers copies of their credit reports through the Web, but then experienced a computer glitch that caused other people's confidential financial records to be provided instead. The credit reports included details about consumers' home loans, their credit cards and their bill payment histories. After the misdirection of consumer reports was widely publicized, Experian received criticism about its system and was called upon to strengthen its security and confidentiality measures.
Electronic privacy is an area of great concern.
In response to consumer demand, security technology and Internet payment schemes are developing at a rapid pace. However, no Internet payment standard has thus far proven predominant. The Web site's disclaimer or online contract should also disclose or address the company's rights to the use of personal information obtained from the user. All rights reserved.