Once you are connected to the Internet, all information, encrypted or not, can be viewed by anyone else on the Internet with the right tools. There are, however, steps that you can take to protect your confidential information. They include using up-to-date virus protection and encryption software to protect your files, ensuring that your computer is physically and electronically safe from intrusion, and monitoring the security of the Web sites that you frequent.

• How can I protect my identity from theft on the Internet?
• How should I protect my computer from intrusion?
• How do I know my Internet Service Provider is secure?
• How do I know if my bank is secure?
  

• Tell no one your password or other confidential information unless you are sure of their identity. Hackers sometimes impersonate technical support workers or others over the phone to obtain private information
• Keep your password out of plain sight in your work area
• Select a password that is hard to guess; avoid social security numbers, birthdates, PINs, or other obvious choices

Good passwords are unique. Try using capitalization, non-letter characters, and other symbols with significance only to you. Instead of "carrot," for example, use "caRrOt8." Also, be sure to change your password periodically.

Keep in mind that once someone has access to your account number and PIN, they have access to your money and personal financial information.

You should also avoid keeping open connections to cable networks or phone lines - your machine could be accessed without your knowledge.

• Make sure your browser supports secure transactions using up-to-date security features like encryption
• Take advantage of security and virus protection software that protects your computer from intrusion
• Use log-on passwords, screen saver passwords, or other devices to prevent someone from using your computer when you are not there
• When you walk away from your PC, turn it off, or turn on the screensaver password feature
• If your computer is accessible to others, consider using encryption software for confidential files

Most operating system software has built-in security features, but you may wish to consider purchasing additional virus protection, encryption, and personal firewall software to better protect your computer and data.

Contact your Internet service provider to find out if they use encryption to store and transmit confirmation of your user ID and password-and if the ID and password are stored on your computer. High-bandwidth access providers like DSL and cable can place your computer in an "always on" state that is accessible to hackers.

Consider using personal firewall and anti-virus software, and turning your computer off when it is not in use.