The study, forthcoming in the International Journal of Electronic Commerce, considers why some massive multiplayer online role-playing games such as World of Warcraft or Star Wars Galaxies, command legions of loyal players while others struggle to gain a following.

FORBES: Studying Player Commitment To MMORPGs

Federal legislation enacted in 2000, known as the Electronic Signatures in Global and International Commerce Act, removed the uncertainty that previously plagued e-contracts.

FORBES: Thank You Adobe. My Bank Account Will Soon Be Grateful.

"The rapid growth of worldwide electronic commerce and the lack of international consensus on restrictions will further isolate these countries and make it difficult for them to continue these policies, " the report said.

CNN: Survey finds encryption rules loosening worldwide