Todd H. wrote:
> "teabox" <greyteabox@yahoo.com> writes:
>
> > I have been wondering how I can be sure, when more than one person uses
> > a computer, if the web page certificates are authentic or not. How do
> > I know that someone else didn't accept a bogus certificate?
>
> What operating system? What web browser? Do you have a separate
> account on that computer that no one else has access to?
>
>
> --
> Todd H.
> http://www.toddh.net/

Todd,

Thanks for you reply.

I am using Windows XP, SP2. Firefox 2.01 and Internet Explorer 6.

My computer at work does not have separate accounts, but even if I set
one up others could certainly use the account from time to time.

> Also, it bears mentioning the obvious that just because a given web
> site has an SSL certificate, and you're seeing one that is attributed
> to them, doesn't mean your activities are safe and secure and that the
> information you provide them won't be cracked by other means.

What other means are you thinking about? I am aware of key loggers and
traffic sniffing via programs like Cain and Abel(Cain uses fake SSL
certificates).

I am quite new to this. I am beginning to wonder if using a public
computer is safe at all. Regardless, I am interesting in understanding
how I can keep my private stuff private!

Thanks,

TB