Encryption
When you submit data through the internet it may be viewable and accessible by others so it's very important to ensure your sensitive data is encrypted before it's transmitted to a remote site, particularly when you're using a wireless network.
Encryption of data basically means converting readable data so it's unreadable. Once the intended party receives the information, the text must be decrypted in order for it be readable. Most trusted and reputable sites who pass sensitive information online, ensure the data is encrypted prior to transmission and is decrypted when the intended party receives it.
Two Ways to Secure Internet Connection
- Website owners can use a 3rd party who verifies you're going through secured session and ensures data integrity and confidentiality, such as VeriSign or
- Using a Secured Socket Layer (SSL) connection, a protocol that sends your login session information over the internet in an encrypted form to ensure the integrity and security of the information being sent. Look for the 's' after the http in your internet browser's address bar.
Confirming Secured Connection
A way to confirm your session is secured is by looking for a locked padlock at the bottom right hand corner of your internet browser. If you double click or mouse over the padlock you will get more detailed information. A locked padlock is a secured session whereas as unlocked padlock is not a secured connection.
Tip: CCS is a partner of Thawte (a VeriSign company) with their Enterprise Account for validating and issuing Thawte SSL certificates for any domain name within uoguelph.ca. Find out how your department can sign up for the service.