Safety tips for using a public computer

Public computers in libraries, Internet cafes, airports, and copy shops can be safe if you follow a few simple rules when you use them.Read these tips to help keep your work, personal, or financial information private.



1. Don't save your logon information

Always log out of websites by clicking "log out" on the site. It's not enough to simply close the browser window or type in another address.
Many programs (especially social networking websites, web mail, and instant messenger programs) include automatic login features that will save your user name and password. Disable this option so no one can log in as you.


2. Don't leave the computer unattended with sensitive information on the screen

If you have to leave the public computer, log out of all programs and close all windows that might display sensitive information.


3. Erase your tracks

Delete your temporary Internet files and your history


4. Disable the feature that stores passwords

Before you go to the web, turn off the Internet Browser feature that "remembers" your passwords.

In Internet Explorer, click Tools Gear icon, and then click Internet Options.
Click the Content tab, and then click Settings, next to AutoComplete.
Click to clear the check box for User names on passwords and forms

In Mozilla Firfox , Click Tools , and then Options.
Click the security tab , and then clear the check box for remember password for site

In Google Chrome, Go to Options, and then click personal stuff tab.
Select never save passwords on right side


5. Don't enter sensitive information into a public computer

These measures provide some protection against casual hackers who use a public computer after you have.But keep in mind that an industrious thief might have installed sophisticated software on the public computer that records every keystroke and then emails that information back to the thief.Then it doesn't matter if you haven't saved your information or if you've erased your tracks. They still have access to this information.If you really want to be safe, avoid typing your credit card number or any other financial or otherwise sensitive information into any public computer.