The use of properly designed hardware eliminates the vulnerability of software-only approaches. Just when a standard approach and support system will be agreed to and fielded may determine just when Web commerce takes off. I believe it will be a matter of time measured in small numbers of years till intellectual property protection and real electronic currency are available. The internationalization of the Internet has created a set of new opportunities for bringing people together, for the spread of information and commerce. High schools and elementary schools world wide are involved in joint projects.
Email is international.
Cruising the Web for information opens up the world's information for the user. Along with all of the benefits come some strains. When one exposes different people to other cultures and other ethics and proprieties, there is often conflict. Many governments disagree with the US notions of democracy and all that it implies. Many believe the imposition of political ideas and material that they feel is objectionable must be stopped at the borders.