Technology execs say consumers will trust Internet by 2005

(Washington-AP) -- Leaders at top technology companies believe that in a few years, consumers will trust Internet businesses as much as they trust traditional merchants. <br><br>Predictably, a new survey

Wednesday, December 5th 2001, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

(Washington-AP) -- Leaders at top technology companies believe that in a few years, consumers will trust Internet businesses as much as they trust traditional merchants.

Predictably, a new survey of technology executives finds strong concerns about software theft. It rates piracy as one of the top barriers to the growth of e-commerce.

Surprisingly, though, they rank consumer fears about privacy and security as more formidable barriers, even though the industry has discouraged government regulation.

They also believe a lack of high-speed connections will limit the growth of e-commerce overseas.

The Business Software Alliance is releasing the survey results today in Washington. The group includes the heads of IBM, Microsoft, Intel, Apple and Compaq.