An EDS survey reports 81 percent of online consumers say trust - belief a company will protect personal information and secure transactions against cyber crime - is the most important consideration when conducting business on the Internet.
Respondents placed trust ahead of ease-of-use, speed of data transmission, speed of goods delivery, reliability or cost reductions as elements for successful cyber business.
The US survey found 87 percent of respondents rank the unauthorised use of personal information as their primary concern. Cyber crime comes next on the list, mentioned by 70 percent of respondents. In addition, 47 percent of consumers point to enhanced Web site security measures, safeguards for credit card information and privacy policies as the leading measures to ensure security and prevent cyber crime.
Shakil Kidwai, vice president, EDS global information assurance services says successful digital businesses will have to approach every transaction with the issue of trust foremost in their minds.