Offline and online transactions

In general direct commerce solutions that use Internet directly to transmit transaction information protect that information with some kind of encryption method. It is not strictly necessary to transmit any sensitive information over open network when there are much more secure channels that can be used to carry sensitive information. Telephone conversations, sending fax, postal mails are chances for illegal taps. Barring the relatively extreme instances of those whose business is under government scrutiny, personal conversations inspire a high level of confidence that no one is listening in eavesdroppers in most cases would most likely be noticed. The result is that there are other channels across which sensitive information can be sent. Some Internet commerce solutions take advantage of the relatively security of these alternative media to eliminate the need for software security solutions. These solutions require that the consumer make a telephone call, send a fax, or send a hard copy with sensitive information like credit card numbers, consumer names and billing and shipping addresses.