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Shared Computers

Most of us access the Internet from different locations -- a
friend's house to check email, an Internet cafe' to check a stock quote, or the
library to research a term paper. Sharing a computer is a great
convenience, but you must take extra precautions to safeguard your personal
information.
Here are some tips to help protect your private personal
information when sharing a computer.
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Do not check the "Remember my ID on
this computer" box. Many sites offer this option. When a computer
"remembers" you, it usually sets a persistent cookie that allows the web site
to identify you so you don't have to sign in. You'll still be signed in after
you close your browsers. This is a convenient option if you are the sole user
of a computer, but if you share a computer, do not check this option. |
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Never leave your computer unattended
while you are signed in. Someone could approach your computer and
easily access your account information. |
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Always sign out completely.
If you use a public or shared computer, it's especially important to always
sing out completely by clicking the "Sign Out" link when you finish using your
account. |
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Clear your browser's cache.
Your browser's cache contains copies of the web pages you have recently
visited and stores these files on your hard drive. Clearing your cache
is a simples process.
Learn more. |
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Know the risks. Some shared
computers allow you to install software on them, making them vulnerable to
virus attacks or malicious programs such as keystroke logging programs. If you
have any concerns about the security of a shared computer, don't hesitate to
ask the administrator about the steps they've take to protect their computers. |
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