Symmetric Encryption and XOR-Based Model for E-Commerce Ecosystem

One of the most common activities computer users perform is exchanging information or data, particularly through e-commerce platforms. The transferred data is often sensitive and must be protected from unauthorized access. A specialized scientific field known as cryptography has emerged in response to this need. Cryptography focuses on securing data by converting it from a readable format (plaintext) into an unreadable format (ciphertext), using specific keys and algorithms to prevent unauthorized interpretation. A cryptographic key and an appropriate encryption algorithm are required to secure data with a password. As encryption technologies evolve, encryption keys have become more accessible through various methods. Consequently, many cryptographic algorithms have been developed to ensure data security. One such method is the substitution cipher, a classical encryption technique. However, ciphertext can be analyzed using cryptanalysis to uncover the original encryption key, which can then be used to decrypt the ciphertext back into plaintext. Cryptanalysis techniques often begin by identifying the key length and then deducing the correct key combination to access the encrypted information. In this study, the author investigates the cryptanalytic process applied to the substitution cipher algorithm using two paired key models: the Symmetric and XOR-based models. The aim is to evaluate the complexity and security of these approaches in safeguarding data and transactions within the e-commerce environment. Objective: To examine the mechanism of electronic transactions (e-commerce) through internet-based payment systems with a focus on security, and to evaluate how these transactions comply with the Information Technology (IT) Act regarding the protection of consumer information.