Encryption Technology
We want you to feel confident that you can conduct business with us over the Internet and your information will be protected. To help ensure this, we've invested in 128-bit encryption technology.
This technology encrypts (scrambles) information you send to us to prevent intervention from a third party. Once your information arrives, the technology allows us to decrypt (decode) the information. This technology is the most secure that is currently available on the market today. Most browsers incorporate 40-bit encryption into their standard products.
If you want to use applications on websites that have incorporated higher security into their sites, you can visit your browser's website for an upgrade. Many sites where you provide banking or credit card information now require this upgrade.
Microsoft Internet Explorer
Netscape
AOL
To determine your browser's encryption level, follow these steps.
Netscape
- In Navigator or Communicator, select Help from the menu bar on the top of your screen.
- Select About Navigator (or Communicator).
- Look for the section that reads, "Contains encryption software from RSA Data Security, Inc."
- If the next paragraph says, "This version supports U.S. security...," it means that you have 128-bit encryption. If it states that you have International Security, it means you only have 40-bit encryption and will need to upgrade your Netscape browser in order to use some applications.
Internet Explorer
- In Internet Explorer, select Support from the menu bar at the top of the page.
- Select About Internet Explorer from the drop down menu.
- A window will open. Examine your Cipher Strength before clicking OK.
- If it states 128-bit, it means you have the proper level of security to use the application. If it states 40-bit, you can install 128-bit encryption by installing the Internet Explorer 5.01 High Encryption Package.
To further increase your security, follow these tips.
- Don't share your password with anyone.
- Don't send us confidential information via Internet e-mail.
- These e-mails are not protected by 128-bit encryption.
- Consider installing a personal firewall.
- Install an anti-virus software and update it frequently. This will allow you to check e-mail attachments before you open them.
- Don't open e-mail files if you're uncertain about the legitimacy of their sources.