SECTION 4: EVALUATING WEB SITES

PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY

When considering your PRIVACY and CONFIDENTIALITY on the Web, think about these common sense RULES-OF-THUMB:

• Do NOT register on a Web site or enter personal information about yourself when you are using a public computer. Register on your home computer or on a secure computer.
• Do NOT provide your e-mail address unless you WANT to receive e-mail message, promotions, etc.
• Look for the confidentiality or privacy message or check-box.
• Work with established organization and company Web sites only. Be wary about providing personal information to a Web site that is operated by a company that you have never heard of.
• Periodically delete your computer's cookies.
• Look for the privacy or security settings on your Web browser, and experiment with their adjustment options.

Most importantly, remember this: Be alert. Take common sense precautions to protect yourself.

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