What is it?
Electronic commerce, or E-commerce, occurs when the buying and selling of products and services is conducted over the internet or other electronic systems. The most familiar form is a payment portal for an online retailer (e.g. Lee Valley) or a service provider (e.g. Athletics’ fitness programmes). These online retail sites allow customers to shop or secure services without being in a specific location when placing the order.
Why is it important?
At Carleton, the use of e-commerce is governed by the E-commerce policy. It outlines secure and appropriate business practices for accepting credit/debit cards as payment. It also outlines the steps required to become a merchant. Operating as per the policy will ensure you are engaging in safe e-commerce business practices, protecting you and the University from risk of fraud and losses. Any e-commerce transactions at the University must be PCI compliant.
Where do I find more information?
For more information about the rules governing e-commerce at Carleton or information about the process to become a merchant, please review the e-commerce policy listed alphabetically on the University Secretariat’s policy website.
For more information about the mandatory PCI compliance required when using e-commerce and other credit/debit processes, please visit Financial Services website, Credit Cards and PCI Compliance.