How to check, if an internet connection is secure

Several signs can show, if a connection is secure or encrypted. All encrypted pages start with https:// instead of the usual http:// . The encryption is also shown with the state of locks in the lower line of internet browsers. Here are some examples.

	Page is encrypted in Netscape Navigator/Communicator		Page is not encrypted in Netscape Navigator/Communicator
	Page is encrypted in Internet Explorer		Page is not encrypted in Internet Explorer
	Encryption logos in older Netscape browsers

A click on the lock will open some additional security information. You can see our certificate, and other information about the origin of the page and its pictures. You may change here the security settings of your browser, in most cases, the default settings are sufficient.

How to check, how strong the connection is encrypted

An encryption key length over 56 k is considered uncrackable for todays standards. American law prohibits the export of software, which keys enables stronger encryption than 56k. Therefore most software has now an US and international version. If you want to download a browser, which enables strong (US) encryption, you are asked for a statement, that you are a legal US citizen or resident and do not intend to export the application.
To check if your browser supports strong encryption you have to go to the About menu item in the Apple menu (Macintosh) or the Help menu (Windows).
Alternatively you can point your browser to the SSL check of Fortify.com. You see the encryption support of your browser right away.

What to do, if your Browser supports only weak encryption

If you live in the United States or Canada, you can download your preferred Browser from Netscape or Microsoft

Here are some links

Microsoft Internet Explorer (Macintosh)
Microsoft Internet Explorer (Windows)

Netscape Communicator or Navigator (all platforms)

International users are free to install the Security plug-in from Fortify, an Australian company. It works only on Netscape browsers. Because it is legal to download software from Australia, which would be illegal to download from the US. we encourage you to use this software as it increases patient data security.

Fortify plug-in