Credit/Debit card. This should ONLY be done using highly secure encrytion for passing the card details from user to the site, such as SSI. Passing Card numbers should not be stored permanently by the vendor.
Pre-payment cards - the cards are purchased from participating newsagents and similar outlets, and the purchase amount used to pay for goods until it runs out. Security is through a code number on the card, either a scratch number or read by swiping. Very useful as they can be used by people who do not have credit cards (about 50% of the population), including children.
Smart cards - A variation of the pre-payment card, suitable where a swipe reader can be used. Either the details of an account, or an actual amount of money, are stored on the card.
By phone bill - part of the web site is routed through a premium rate phone number. The phone company bills the customer on his phone bill and then pays the vendor. Losing ground as cannot be used on Broadband connections.
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Digital wallet - transfer money into a cryptographically secure account operated by a bank. Then authorise payment to a vendor. Can even be used between individuals if they have compatible wallets. It is anonymous, the vendor not knowing the identity of the customer.
Online accounts - pay money into special accounts, than vendors on the same system can charge that account. An increasing number of vendors participate in the most popular such systems.
Downloadable goods - an encrypted file can include both the files to be downloaded and a payment request. The file cannnot be decrypted until the customer pays the specified account.
And finally..... Who says we are in the 21st century? Barter is on the up and up! Between businesses and between individuals.
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