Page 118 - Cyber Defense eMagazine August 2024

Securing E-commerce

Navigating Regulatory Hurdles for Online Sales of Age-Restricted Products

By Andy Lulham, Chief Operating Officer at VerifyMy

E-commerce is poised to account for over 20% of global purchases by 2024. This surge is fueled by a
confluence of factors: the expansion of online product offerings, consumer pursuit of discounts, and the
lure of convenience and broader selection. For e-commerce platforms, this trend underscores the critical
need to ensure compliance with age verification laws to prevent underage sales of items such as alcohol,
tobacco, vaping products, and firearms.

The Complex Landscape of E-commerce Legislation

Navigating the labyrinth of e-commerce legislation is a formidable task, characterized by its complexity
and variability across jurisdictions. Legal requirements fluctuate based on cultural norms, geographic
regions, and regulatory frameworks, creating a patchwork of rules that e-commerce businesses must
adhere to. For example, the shipment of alcohol is regulated by each state, and the requirements vary

Cyber Defense eMagazine – August 2024 Edition 118
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