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We work to protect your information by using Secure Socket Layer (SSL) software that encrypts information you send us. Still, it is important that you protect your password and other personal information to prevent others from using it online. Although we make every effort to maintain the security of this site and the information you provide us, there is a remote possibility of an unauthorized person gaining access to the information.

Should I really be concerned about Internet privacy?
Yes. The connection between your computer and any other technology on the Internet can be routed through dozens of independent systems, any of which can easily be monitored. You should consider non-encrypted e-mail, Web browsing, chatting, and any other Internet use about as private as yelling to someone across a crowded room.

What does SSL mean to the average Internet user?
When you come across a Web page that is secured, your browser will likely display a "closed lock" or other symbol to inform you that SSL has been enabled. The Web site address should also now start with "https://" rather than the usual "http://." SSL allows a secure connection between your Web browser and a Web server.

What is a digital certificate?
The digital certificate is similar to a driver's license, and the SSL is comparable to a car. A digital certificate is the identification card issued by a Certificate Authority (CA) and used by a server to prove it is the legitimate source of private information (much like a driver's license proves to a police officer that a person is who the person claims to be). Also, just as the state government is the only agency allowed to issue a valid driver's license, there are only a few CA's that issue valid certificates your browser will accept.

Does SSL require a 'digital certificate' and vice-versa?
Yes. Digital Certificates facilitate the public key exchange required to enable an SSL connection.

What's the difference between 40-bit and 128-bit SSL connections?
Many banks require 128-bit encryption for online banking because 40-bit encryption is considered to be relatively weak. 128-bits is about 309 septillion times (309,485,000,000,000,000,000,000,000) larger than 40-bits.

Equated to the real world, sending information without encryption is like sending a postcard through the mail—the contents are visible to practically anyone who wants to see it. Using this analogy, 40-bit encryption is like sending information in a plain white envelope. 56-bit encryption is similar to using a security envelope designed to prevent it from being see-through. 128-bit encryption is comparable to encasing your data in a lead-lined, 12-inch thick titanium safe that is being transported by an armored tank with a convoy of a hundred armed guards.

How can I tell if my Web browser has 128-bit encryption?
Most newer browsers now support a variety of SSL bit strengths. This ensures browsers are fully compatible with the majority of Web servers and digital certificates. If you have an older browser you downloaded without filling out a brief residency confirmation form, you probably have a 40 or 56-bit version. Check your browser's encryption preferences to see what you have available.

Why isn't SSL "engaged" on a Web site all the time?
Because all information going back and fourth between the client and server is being put through an encryption process instead of being sent plain, the server and browser take longer to process this data. The speed difference may not be noticeable on a single page, but if all of a Web site's pages were encrypted, the server's performance could be significantly reduced.