Internet Security Part 1 - Using An Internet Cafe

May 13th, 2008 by admin

For those of us addicted to the Internet a world full of cyber cafes can be a dream come true. On vacation in Costa Rica recently I was able to stay in contact with family and friends easily and cheaply.

But the question is, how do you stay safe when using an internet cafe? After all, you’re using someone else’s computer that could harbour all sorts of viruses and keyloggers. From a combination of my own experiences and research here are 6 tips to keep your personal information safe when using a cyber cafe.

1) Use A Reputable Internet Cafe

Is the cafe full of people? Is it welcoming? Consider asking for recommendations at your hotel. Do they seem to have anti-virus on their computers such as Norton or AVG? Windows will now flash up warnings if it’s own security systems sense a problem though just because Windows *isn’t* complaining doesn’t mean there isn’t a problem. Are the computers “closed systems” or are people downloading pictures from digital cameras, uploading videos and mp3s etc. The more interaction between the computers and other technology, the greater the chance to pass on viruses.

Having considered these factors, if at first glance all seems positive, then let’s look at the next factor to consider…

2) Choose Firefox Over Internet Explorer

For now, far fewer viruses attack Forefox as it is such a new piece of software. Likely this will change with tie but most experts agree that the Forefox browser is safer to use than Internet Explorer. Take a look at GetFirefox.com so you can see what it looks like so if you encounter it in an Internet cafe, it’sa good sign. Just because they use Explorer isn’t a reason not to use them, but given the choice, go for Firefox.

3) Run A Spyware Sweep

If in any doubt at all, use an online spysweeper tool to check the computer you’re using for viruses and any other programs that may cause you problems. One example of such a piece of software is HouseCall but there are plenty to choose from.

4) Don’t Autosave Any Of Your Details

I’m still shocked in most Internet cafes how many people stupidly leave their login details on the computer. If you use a username and password to log into a site - such as your emails or banking details - make sure you don’t select the option to save your details. Simply by visiting Hotmail, Gmail and so on I have gone straightinto someone else’s emails because either they didn’t log out, or they saved their details on the computer.

5) Delete Cookies And Internet History

At the end of your session, to leave less of a trace, if you’re using Internet Explorer, clear your cookies (small text files saved on the computer that can identify you and what you did) plus the internet histiry which lists the sites you visited.

By doing this, the next user won’t be able to see where you went so there is less chance of prying eyes working out what website you use for your email and so on.

To do this, select Tools, then Internet Options, then click the Delete Cookies and Clear History buttons before OK. It may well “idle” for a few minutes as it is deleting these files (there may be hundreds) so make sure you do this several minutes before you run out of time on your internet session.

6) Delete Any Saved Information

Even if you elect not to let Windows save your information, it may still try to save a few bits. To ensure you’re safe, again select Tools, then Internet Options but this time click the Content tab at the top. Then click the “Autocomplete” option and in this additional menu click both the Clear Forms and Clear Passwords buttons before clicking OK to finish.

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