Links to more information on security issues

Other sources of information regarding Firefox vs. Internet Explorer

A local media source comments on the benefits of Firefox:
http://www.wistechnology.com/article.php?id=1362

US-CERT (U.S. Computer Emergency Readiness Team) recommends discontinuing use of IE:
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2004/06/28/cert_ditch_explorer/

EWeek article on the dangers of IE:
http://www.eweek.com/article2/0,1759,1619846,00.asp

Article on the dangers inherent in IE:
http://www.zdnet.com.au/insight/security/0,39023764,39153405,00.htm

Penn State suggests their 80,000 users stop using IE:
http://www.informationweek.com/story/showArticle.jhtml?articleID=55301109

Additional safer browsing tips

(from US-CERT, Copyright 2004 Carnegie Mellon University)

• Don't click on links within pop-up windows
  Because pop-up windows are often a product of spyware, clicking on the window may install spyware software on your computer. To close the pop-up window, click on the "X" icon in the titlebar instead of a "close" link within the window.
• Choose "no" when asked unexpected questions
  Be wary of unexpected dialog boxes asking whether you want to run a particular program or perform another type of task. Always select "no" or "cancel," or close the dialog box by clicking the "X" icon in the titlebar.
• Be wary of free downloadable software
  There are many sites that offer customized toolbars or other features that appeal to users. Don't download programs from sites you don't trust, and realize that you may be exposing your computer to spyware by downloading some of these programs.
• Don't follow email links claiming to offer anti-spyware software
  Like email viruses, the links may serve the opposite purpose and actually install the spyware it claims to be eliminating.

Adjust your browser preferences to limit pop-up windows and cookies
Pop-up windows are often generated by some kind of scripting or active content. Adjusting the settings within your browser to reduce or prevent scripting or active content may reduce the number of pop-up windows that appear. Some browsers offer a specific option to block or limit pop-up windows. Certain types of cookies are sometimes considered spyware because they reveal what Web pages you have visited. You can adjust your privacy settings to only allow cookies for the Web site you are visiting. (See "Browsing Safely: Understanding Active Content and Cookies.")