Homework #4

Michael Brothers

Due: 2/14/2012

MIS

Homework # 4

We have discussed a wide range of topics within these first couple of weeks, but the topic that interest me most was our discussion with internet privacy. After having read an article for a  previous homework assigned about Google and how they have been known to have a bad reputation in regards to keeping customers information safe and secure. All internet users need to be better educated when it comes to what they are entering into the World Wide Web. Although websites may seem like they have a high level of security provided to its users, that’s not always the case.

            In the article titled EFF's Top 12 Ways to Protect Your Online Privacy written by Stanton McCandlish, EFF Technology Director, he gives 12 efficient tips on how to keep yourself protected when it comes to online privacy. Here are just some of his tips, one; “Do not reveal information inadvertently” without knowing users are not entering e-mail addresses and are providing other personally identifiable information that they don't wish to share. When visiting a website you trust it is necessary that you chose minimum information to share.

Another tip suggested is to “Turn on cookie notices in your Web browser, and/or use cookie management software” Not everyone knows what the term “Cookies” means which means that you are just that more vulnerable. "Cookies" are tidbits of information that Web sites store on your computer, temporarily or more-or-less permanently. In many cases cookies are useful and efficient; they are passwords and or user IDs. The reason for “Cookies” is so that a user doesn’t have to keep re-entering the password nor the user ID each time a new page is loaded cookies have been issued.

            Also, users need to be “Conscious of Web security.” It is extremely important that credit card information and important personal information is entered into only secure (encrypted). Look for a closed lock on if you have a Windows computer and an unbroken key for a Mac computer. Entering personal information into a non-secure sight is a potential risk for disaster. You may become the victim of identity theft, fraud, and much more. Internet privacy is an important thing to take precautions with, if all internet users become more knowledgeable and take caution when entering personal information then your risk of becoming a victim are lowered.

https://www.eff.org/wp/effs-top-12-ways-protect-your-online-privacy