The disadvantages of e-commerce can be broadly classified into two major categories −
There can be lack of system security, reliability or standards owing to poor implementation of e-commerce.
The software development industry is still evolving and keeps changing rapidly.
In many countries, network bandwidth might cause an issue.
Special types of web servers or other software might be required by the vendor, setting the e-commerce environment apart from network servers.
Sometimes, it becomes difficult to integrate an e-commerce software or website with existing applications or databases.
There could be software/hardware compatibility issues, as some e-commerce software may be incompatible with some operating system or any other component.
Initial cost − The cost of creating/building an e-commerce application in-house may be very high. There could be delays in launching an e-Commerce application due to mistakes, and lack of experience.
User resistance − Users may not trust the site being an unknown faceless seller. Such mistrust makes it difficult to convince traditional users to switch from physical stores to online/virtual stores.
Security/ Privacy − It is difficult to ensure the security or privacy on online transactions.
Lack of touch or feel of products during online shopping is a drawback.
E-commerce applications are still evolving and changing rapidly.
Internet access is still not cheaper and is inconvenient to use for many potential customers, for example, those living in remote villages.