The future of e-commerce in Hong Kong looks bright with over 210,000 Smart ID Card holders already embedding HK Post's e-Cert into their cards.

General Manager (Electronic Services) Allen Mok said today the number of e-Cert applications through the Smart ID Card bulk replacement exercise is growing.

"With the ease of accessibility of the e-Cert embedded Smart ID Card, it creates a very favourable and convenient environment for conducting secure e-commerce, be it e-banking, online securities trading, shopping or betting," he said.

More bank transactions conducted online

Monetary Authority Banking Development Department Head Li Shu-pui said it is a worldwide trend that more and more banking transactions are conducted online, and Hong Kong is no exception.

"There are around 38 authorised institutions offering Internet banking services in Hong Kong. At the end of 2003, there were around 2.2 million personal Internet banking accounts (compared with 1.6 million in 2002 or an increase of 37%) and 67,000 business Internet banking accounts (compared with 31,000 in 2002 or an increase of 116%)," he said.

The number of financial transactions of personal and business Internet banking services rose 38% and 440% respectively last year.

"While enjoying the benefits of increasing use of online transactions and the greater convenience that comes with it, consumers should also take every precaution over security to protect their interests," Mr Li said.

e-Cert ensures online trade security

The Bank of East Asia is one of the leaders here applying for e-Cert technology. The bank's e-Distribution Department Head Vincent Hui said to offer a more secure means of online banking services to its customers, the bank has adopted HK Post e-Cert as it is the most popular digital certificate in Hong Kong.

"With improved security, the transaction limit of our online banking services will be increased to provide greater flexibility and even more valued-added solutions to our customers," Mr Li said.