What about online Security?

You can order your Credit Profile online with confidence and security in the United States with Netscape and Microsoft browsers since they support the recommended 128-bit key length encryption SSL (Secure Sockets Layer). International versions support 40-bit encryption.

Download Netscape Navigator

1. Fill out the "Netscape US--Only Software Eligibility Affidavit."

2. Type in the required information and click "I declare that the above is true."

3. Choose the version of Netscape for your operating system and click the start download button. (All US versions at this site have 128-bit encryption).

Download Microsoft Internet Explorer

1. Select your operating system and follow the download instructions.

2. Select the version of Internet Explorer. (All US versions at this site have 128-bit encryption.)

3. Select a download site.

Once you have downloaded the file, please double-click it from File Manager (Windows 3.1), Windows Explorer (Windows 95 and Windows NT), or just double-click it (Macintosh) to install. UNIX users will need to uncompress the file by typing "gunzip-N [filename]".

How can I tell which version of an Internet browser I am using?

Whether you're running Netscape Navigator or Internet Explorer, simply select "Help" from the Menu Bar, then click on "About Netscape Navigator" or "About Internet Explorer." You'll get a screen that gives you the version of your browser.

How can I tell if my browser supports SSL and 128-bit encryption?

If you have Netscape Navigator, simply select "Help" from the Menu Bar, then click on "About Netscape" and you will obtain a screen of information including the version.

If you see language referring to "International Security," then your browser DOES NOT support 128-bit encryption.

If you see language referring to "U.S. security" or "Domestic security," then your browser DOES SUPPORT 128-bit encryption.

If you have Internet Explorer, go to a secure page (a secure page uses the prefix "https"). With your cursor positioned anywhere on the secure page, click on file, and then properties. Click on the tab marked "Security" and look under the heading "Privacy strength." It will show whether you have 128-bit or 40-bit encryption.

How can I tell if my online session is encrypted?

If you are running Netscape Navigator, look in the lower left-hand corner of the browser. You will see a small key as an indication that your session is running in an encrypted mode. When your session is not encrypted you will see a broken key.

If you are using Internet Explorer, you will see a lock icon displayed in the bottom right corner of the window when you are on a secure page.

How can I check if 128-bit encryption is enabled?

If you are using Netscape Navigator, it is possible that your 128-bit encryption feature may be disabled. To verify, select "Options" --> "Security Preferences" -->"General." There should be a check next to the "Enable SSL v2." Click on the button "Configure." The "Configure Ciphers" window will appear. Make sure the first item ("RC4 encryption with a 128-bit key") is checked, then click on "OK."
Microsoft Internet Explorer does not allow you to turn the security features off.

 

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