Microsoft improves on-line security with Internet Explorer 8

Microsoft improves on-line security with Internet Explorer 8
Ben Uzor Jr
In a conscious attempt to address the prevalent issue of cybersecurity especially for Nigerians who are increasingly relying on public places (cybercafés, schools, offices) for internet access, Microsoft has introduced the latest version of its popular internet browsing software.
Designed specifically to make online experience more secure, Internet Explorer 8 is built with a host of other security technologies that will also ensure that personal surfing habits and identity information are secure especially in places where lots of individuals share public computers.
Ken Spann, development platform manager, Microsoft Anglophone West Africa observed that whilst public places remains a great way to ensure internet access, “it does open you to a security minefield that you need to be aware of, particularly if you are using a computer that hundreds of other people also have access to.”
“Unfortunately, the way the Internet works is that it leaves little ‘signs’ and ‘trails’ all over the World Wide Web when you surf websites and log into your secure accounts (like Facebook, online shopping sites or even your online bank account)”, Spann explained.
According to him, some of this information is stored on the computer and can be readily accessed by any one who has a relatively good understanding of computers and where to find these little weaknesses. “So, if you’re not careful about cleaning off all the traces that you left behind on a public computer, it’s possible that someone else could have access to your most personal information like credit card numbers, bank account details or passwords”, he pointed out.
Spann disclosed that Microsoft was working hard to ensure that internet users can surf the web on public computers without worrying about having their personal details stolen when you leave. “Users have full control over what can and can’t track their activities so it gives you peace of mind that you know exactly what is happening with your personal information.”
In the same vein, Sola Bickersteth, general manager of ChamsCity, a network of digital facilities based in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt delivering internet services to the local community said: “When Internet Explorer 8 was released, I simply had to install it and find out what all the fuss was about. And my customers and I were very pleased.”
“A feature called InPrivate, gives you the ability to surf the Internet in virtual anonymity, preventing the computer from permanently recording your browsing history, and storing temporary Internet files and little tracking files called cookies. “It is also a lot more powerful, giving users the ability to filter content coming from third parties, which may give them information about your surfing habits”, he concluded.