Using the Internet away from home
When you are away from your regular connection to the Internet, you may need to go online. You can do this via either a wireless 'hot spot' where you use your own computer, or an Internet cafe where you use the computer supplied by the cafe owners. Whether you are using your own computer away from your normal connection or are using someone else's computer, there are some important computer security issues to consider.
What is a wireless 'hot spot'?
You can now use your wireless laptop or PDA in some cafes, airports, restaurants or freely provided 'hot spot's. WiFi (Wireless Fidelity) enables local networks to be built without wires or cables. Your computer/laptop will need a wireless network card, if it is not WiFi enabled, to send and receive data from such a network.
In addition to your own up-to-date security (updated operating system, antivirus and firewall), the provider of the service should also have a privacy statement posted or available that explains what sort of encryption they use. It is recommended that if they don't have a policy to show you, do not use the network. Avoid doing any secure transactions (using credit card or account details) in such an environment; for in such a place it is you yourself who are responsible for the security of your information and if your system is compromised you will have no comeback against the 'hot spot' provider.
What are the security risks in a cafe?
When you are away from home, you may want to use a convenient Internet cafe to access your email or to do some work. In New Zealand you can find a number of places to access the Internet, from public libraries to even some video shops and juice bars offering access.
It is important to know that in New Zealand there are no regulations governing the management of such establishments and no regulatory authority making sure that these businesses are respecting the privacy of their clients. Many such establishments endeavour to provide a good service, but you have no way of knowing for sure how many viruses, Trojans, keystroke loggers and spyware programs are resident in a particular cafe's machines.
By and large, the best bet for secure service may be a public library, but there is a great variation in practices even amongst libraries. The placement of the computers should allow for some privacy to prevent customers 'shoulder surfing' (where others are surreptitiously watching what you are doing), yet still allow the Manager to keep an eye on patrons. A good cafe will have an Acceptable Use Policy for customers, as well as an explanation of their security practices. There should also be some link between your paying your money and the machine you use for good accountability (for example, your receipt should have the machine number you use on it).
Never enter sensitive information on a public computer. This includes online banking and anything involving the use of your credit card. If you are worried about the security of sensitive information, don't use these establishments.
What are some good practices in a cafe?
Here are some good tips:
- Don't leave the computer unattended with your information on the screen. Logout of all programs.
- Logout of any websites you have visited by clicking on 'Logout' versus closing the browser window.
- When you are finished, delete your temporary Internet files and your history.
In Internet Explorer, go to Tools, Internet Options, then click on the General tab. Under Temporary Internet files, click Delete Files and then Delete Cookies. Under History, click Clear History.
- Also, empty the Recycle or Rubbish Bin.
- As an added precaution go to
the Content tab and click on Autocomplete in the Personal Information area. Ensure that all the options are un-ticked and choose Clear Forms and Clear Passwords.
- Keep an eye out for shoulder surfers or people using video enabled mobile phones.
- Download a free (reputable) anti-spyware software and ensure it is updated, before scanning the computer to ensure there are no bits of malicious software or traps for the unwary.
Click here to return to the NetSafe Computer Security home page.
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