(graphics not included)Executive SummaryIn this report I will look at the benefits and risks of e-commerce, the types of legislation that have been introduced to protect both the consumer and the 'business . At the end of this report I am going to give my recommendation whether I believe you should venture into e-business and start your own online business. I will try to remain impartial and express my opinion while providing a fair account of the risks and benefits of e-business. Introduction For this report I have to take on the role of a consultant specializing in Internet security. I am a consultant and also a member of the (BSC) British Computer Society. The CEO of a medium-sized retail chain asked me to provide advice on the e-business opportunity and to report specifically on online payments and personal data security. The CEO is quite concerned after hearing negative reports that Internet fraud is widespread. I intend to free him from this perception by doing my best to provide him with a comprehensive and unbiased approach to the benefits and risks of developing an e-Business. I also intend to outline the different types and options of online payment and data security systems available. Once I have informed you of the various benefits and risks of e-Business, the different types of data and online payment methods available, I intend to provide my recommendation regarding the course of action that I believe is best suited to your company and that would lead them to achieve the safest and best possible outcome. ReportE-Business has now received worldwide recognition as a business tool that, when used correctly, allows companies to increase their profitability, exploit potential new markets and provide consumers with a better quality service. The scale of its recognition is such that in 2005, according to Business Communications Company Inc. (bccreserach.com), its total revenues exceeded $3 trillion. It seems that more and more companies have become aware of the opportunities available and are looking to seize the opportunity to start their own electronic business and get their share of this revenue. E-bay, a business I'm sure you're aware of, is a great example of a successful e-business. They are responsible for creating the world's largest online marketplace and are currently valued in $ and have a customer base exceeding 34 million in Europe and 300 million worldwide, a figure that is continually growing.