New store owners may not be familiar with the Australian Guidelines for Electronic Commerce (PDF) published by the Australian Government Treasury in 2006. These guidelines seek to enhance further consumer confidence in electronic commerce by providing guidance to businesses on how to deal with consumers when engaged in business to consumer electronic commerce.
The checklist below highlights key issues to be considered when dealing with consumers through e-commerce.
When engaging in business-to-consumer e-commerce, make sure you consider the following issues:
- Does your business follow ‘fair business practices’?
- Do consumers need specialised software or hardware to trade with you?
- Have you taken reasonable steps to ensure the goods and services you supply are accessible to people with a disability?
- Is all advertising material clearly identifiable, so it cannot be confused with other content?
- Are procedures in place to ensure that any marketing messages you send do not constitute spam?
- Have you taken reasonable steps to avoid entering into transactions with minors?
- Can consumers easily find all key information about your business, including contact details?
- Are contract terms for purchases clear, accurate and easily accessible by consumers?
- Have you taken appropriate steps to protect consumers’ privacy?
- Have you provided consumers with payment mechanisms that are easy to use and offer appropriate security?
- Have you clearly explained to consumers the security and authentication methods you use so they can assess any risks?
- Do consumers have easy access to, and clear information about, dispute resolution procedures?
- Are consumers informed about any specific laws or jurisdiction applicable to transactions with your business?
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