Privacy

Familiarize yourself with the tips below to help protect your computer and personal information. In addition, learn how True Source Technology keeps your information secure.

• Protect your passwords. Memorize your passwords. Do not write them down or share them with anyone. Change them regularly and use combinations of letters, numbers, and “special characters” such as “pound” (#) and “at” (@) signs.
• Protect your answers to security questions. Select questions and provide answers that are easy for you to remember, but hard for anyone else to guess. Do not write down your security questions or answers, or share them with anyone. If you have selected security questions on other sites, avoid using the same questions to protect your True Source Technology online information. Please note that we will never ask you to provide answers to your security questions via email. Learn more about security questions.
• Communicate safely with your mobile devices. When you use a mobile device (cellular phone, blackberry, etc.) for browser or text-based information access, keep these tips in mind:
  – Use the keypad lock or phone lock function on your mobile device when it is not in use. These functions password protect your device so that nobody else can use it or view your information. Also be sure to store your device in a secure location.
  – Frequently delete text messages with personal information, and especially before loaning out, discarding, or selling your mobile device.
  – Never disclose via text message any personal information (login ID, passwords, etc.).
• Keep your computer operating system up to date. If your computer is more than five years old, its operating system (e.g. Windows 98, OS 7, etc.) may not offer the same level of protection as newer systems. System manufacturers provide frequent updates to help make your system more secure, possibly automatically through email or via your Internet connection. You may also check their websites, including:
  – Microsoft® http://www.microsoft.com/security/
  – Apple Computer® http://www.apple.com/softwareupdate/
• Install a personal firewall. Though most office networks include firewall protection, your home computer may benefit from this added level of security. Check to see if your operating system already includes a firewall prior to purchasing a separate one.
• Install, run, and keep anti-virus software updated. Commercially available virus protection software helps reduce the risk of contracting computer viruses that can compromise your security. These programs offer continuous upgrades in response to the latest threats. Two of the most popular programs are:
  – McAfee® http://us.mcafee.com
  – Symantec® http://www.norton.com/
• Use secure websites for transactions and shopping. Make sure the web page you are viewing offers encryption of your data. Often you will see a lock symbol in the lower right-hand corner of your browser window, or the web address of the page you are viewing will begin with “https://…”. The “s” indicates “secured” and means the web page uses encryption.
• Avoid downloading programs from unknown sources. Downloads from unfamiliar sources may contain hidden programs or viruses that can compromise your computer’s security.
• Disconnect from the Internet when not in use. Dedicated services such as DSL or high-speed cable provide a constant connection between your computer and the Internet. Even if you have a firewal installed, as an additional step to help protect yourself, disconnect from the Internet when not in use to avoid unwanted access to your computer’s data.