To set security options

1. On the Edit menu, choose Options, or click the button on the tool bar.
2. Click the Security tab.
3. Select which alerts you want to see.

Tip

• A secure site is indicated by a lock icon in the status bar at the bottom of the browser window. If you do not see the status bar, on the View menu, choose Status Bar.

Security on the Internet: Overview

The Internet works by sending information from computer to computer until the information reaches its destination. So, when data is sent from point A to point B, every computer in between has an opportunity to look at what's being sent. This can pose a security problem.

For example, suppose you are looking at a clothing catalog on the World Wide Web, and you decide to buy a shirt. This requires that you type certain facts into an order form, including your credit card number. You know the clothing company in question is reputable, so you type your credit card and other information, and then send the completed form. Your information passes from computer to computer on its way to the clothing company. Unfortunately, one of the computers in between has been infiltrated by criminals who watch the data passing through that computer until they see something interesting—such as your credit card number.

How often does something like this happen? It's hard to say, but the important thing is, it's technically possible. And, as the Internet grows, it's bound to happen more and more.

How does Microsoft Internet Explorer help to protect you and your data? Many Internet sites are equipped to prevent unauthorized individuals from seeing the data sent to or from those sites. These are called "secure" sites. Because Internet Explorer supports the security protocols used by secure sites, you can send information to a secure site with safety and confidence. (When you are viewing a page from a secure site, Internet Explorer displays a "lock" icon in the status bar.)