How secure is the Internet?
The Internet works by sending information from computer to computer until the information reaches its destination. So when data is sent from point A to point B, every computer in between has an opportunity to look at what’s being sent. This can pose a security problem. For example, suppose you see a clothing catalog on the World Wide Web, and you decide to buy a shirt. This requires that you type certain facts, including your credit card number, into an order form. You know the clothing company in question is reputable, so you type your information, and then send the completed form. Your information passes from computer to computer on its way to the clothing company. Unfortunately, one of the computers in between may have been infiltrated by criminals who could watch the data passing through that computer until they see something interesting, such as your credit card number. Another security problem relates to how files and programs are sent and received between Web sites and your comp
The Internet works by sending information from computer to computer until the information reaches its destination. So when data is sent from point A to point B, every computer in between has an opportunity to look at what’s being sent. This can pose a security problem. For example, suppose you see a clothing catalog on the World Wide Web, and you decide to buy a shirt. This requires that you type certain facts, including your credit card number, into an order form. You know the clothing company in question is reputable, so you type your information, and then send the completed form. Your information passes from computer to computer on its way to the clothing company. Unfortunately, one of the computers in between may have been infiltrated by criminals who could watch the data passing through that computer until they see something interesting, such as your credit card number.
