TECHNOLOGY TIPS - HOW SECURE IS YOUR WEB BROWSER?
Nowadays, many people seemed to have forgotten the importance (and the inherent dangers) of their computer's browser. They forgot that the browser, per se, works like a two-way street. It is where cyber security should police the two-way cyber traffic.
A web browser's main job is to find and display web pages. From there, it makes possible the "communication" between your computer and the web server where a site is located.
But, your browser is also - and this is the dangerous part - the gateway of the cyber world into your computer. And, not all of the things from the Internet going inside your computer are good. Some are downright risky.
In a perfect world, you should set your browser's security to the highest level possible. But these settings may restrict the functionality of other features and prevent some web pages to load properly. The best compromise solution would be to set your browser to the highest security level (to prevent attacks) but at the same time enabling some features to work when you need them.
Be careful about your Java and ActiveX controls. These scripts, used to achieve certain appearances or functionality, can be used in attacking your computer. This is also true about Plug-ins, those additional software that enhances the function of some programs. Make sure that the sites that installing them are trustworthy.
For safety, it is advisable to disable Cookies and enable them only if the site you trust requires them.
Cyber Security starts first in your browser. It is best that you start the safeguarding process from there, your computer's door to the wide, wild world of cyber space.
CATHY MALLERS & DEAN'S TEAM CHICAGO
