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I need to open an online user account with my medical carrier that requires my SS#, there is no getting around it. I have no other choice than to do that at a library, since a hotel's security is virtually non-existent. I figure if I go to a larger library system/district, that would be my best choice. I would be using my Macbook for this adventure. Should I buy and install any further security software? I've had no problem in the past with any of my Macs with online banking.
Any and all feedback is greatly appreciated.
As long as you are aware that there are vulnerabilities in SSL and you are using your own system...
Just make sure your Macbook is up to date and whatever browser/application you are using is current on patches or is at the manufacturers latest release.
As long as you are aware that there are vulnerabilities in SSL and you are using your own system...
Do those two statements support each other making me more vulnerable?
Is the fact that I'm using my own system a better thing, or should I use their computer?
I had no idea what SSL/TSL is so I gave it a quick Google. Sounds like if I go to a larger branch of a larger district I have a better chance it'll be the most current and safest.
Quote:
Originally Posted by plwhit
Just make sure your Macbook is up to date and whatever browser/application you are using is current on patches or is at the manufacturers latest release
I have the latest edition of Firefox and downloaded Safari's latest yesterday. I've heard that FF is a little safer than Safari according to some Apple people and assorted civilians.
If possible, see if your library has an ethernet port you can use. While it won't rule out all vulnerabilities, it is less risky than wifi.
This smaller branch that I'm posting from does have an ethernet port. I would have never thought that was an option or they would even supply one. Good to know if I can't find a larger branch.
Do those two statements support each other making me more vulnerable?
Is the fact that I'm using my own system a better thing, or should I use their computer?
I had no idea what SSL/TSL is so I gave it a quick Google. Sounds like if I go to a larger branch of a larger district I have a better chance it'll be the most current and safest.
I have the latest edition of Firefox and downloaded Safari's latest yesterday. I've heard that FF is a little safer than Safari according to some Apple people and assorted civilians.
I'll ask you again, how old is your Mac, what version of OS-X?
Click on the Apple symbol in the upper left and then click on About This Mac.
I need to open an online user account with my medical carrier that requires my SS#, there is no getting around it. I have no other choice than to do that at a library, since a hotel's security is virtually non-existent. I figure if I go to a larger library system/district, that would be my best choice. I would be using my Macbook for this adventure. Should I buy and install any further security software? I've had no problem in the past with any of my Macs with online banking.
Any and all feedback is greatly appreciated.
I don't think your question of having "further security software" can be answered without knowing what your baseline is. Its basically asking someone if you have enough money without telling them how much you have.
Since you're plugging your personal computer into a network that you have no control over, you certainly want to make sure you have all the basic controls enabled and updated (Firewall enabled, all sharing services stopped, patches updated etc). For the most part I would just make sure the provider's site where you'll be entering the information is SSL/TLS encrypted (look for that lock icon or the https in the url). SSL/TLS encrypts that session from your computer to the webserver.
I can certainly list all the reasons why even with all the above you'll still be at risk (after-all, its the library's network, and you have no idea what controls they have). But realistically speaking, these same risks can exist on just about any network that is used to provide access to the public.
As for a hotel's wifi security vs. your local library - its more often similar than not. Or realistically speaking, you need to treat them all as "insecure".
I'll ask you again, how old is your Mac, what version of OS-X?
Oops, I cut and pasted bits and pieces of the post from word, I mistakenly thought I gave it to you the first time!
10.6.8 I'm guessing it's about three years old. I'm heading to the Apple store this afternoon (fan[s] gave out) so they can give me the exact date if need be.
I don't think your question of having "further security software" can be answered without knowing what your baseline is. Its basically asking someone if you have enough money without telling them how much you have.
Since you're plugging your personal computer into a network that you have no control over, you certainly want to make sure you have all the basic controls enabled and updated (Firewall enabled, all sharing services stopped, patches updated etc). For the most part I would just make sure the provider's site where you'll be entering the information is SSL/TLS encrypted (look for that lock icon or the https in the url). SSL/TLS encrypts that session from your computer to the webserver.
Regarding my firewall, I don't know how safe I was from day one!
Firefox was the only one I had blocked for incoming connections.
Today I happened to find that Java VisualVM and Migrations Assistiant's allowed them. Don't know if I got more or less of those depending on what program I used recently.
I just now blocked all incoming connections and all of these have disappeared from the dialog box, thanks for the tip.
Stealth mode was disabled until today!
If I get notified about the patch updates, via the standard Mac 'software updates are available' option, they are current.
Last edited by noregon98; 09-27-2013 at 12:42 PM..
if you regularly do banking or other personal business via public wifi hotspots, you should look into subscribing to a VPN service. Virtual Private Networks create a secure encrypted "virtual" tunnel from your PC to their server that can't be sniffed or observed by 3rd party interlopers (like other wifi patrons/hackers or even hotspot operator). Our firm uses StrongVPN in conjunction with a corporate-level CISCO private vpn server for us to communicate & exchange email/files on the road.
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