Click the image (with blue border) for larger view in a new window.

Step 1 Checking Your Computer Browser

1. Click on HELP in the Menu Bar.
2. Select ABOUT Internet Explorer from the list.
3. Check the help window dialog box to make sure your browser is encrypted at 128-Bit or higher.

Anything lower than 128-Bit will not protect (scramble) the data you send from your computer over the Internet. There are programs that “search” for 16-digit credit card (and 9-digit Social Security) numbers and can capture them if the encryption is lower than 128 bit.   If your browser isn't showing 128 bit or higher, then you will need to download a newer version of the browser.

Step 2 - Checking the Selling Website’s Security

1. On the page where you actually enter your Credit Card Number, check the address bar to make sure the URL has changed to HTTPS. The “S” at the end of the HTTP indicates that the information you will be entering is stored on a secure server. The website owner has purchased a Site Security License (SSL) to ensure the data received from you is scrambled when it is received (it is transmitted directly to the banking site and not read by a person). Your credit card information, if stored on the server (for those who use a logon and password), is also encrypted and cannot read by the site owner.
    
2. A little GOLD LOCK will appear in the lower right-hand corner of the browser window if you are on a secure page.
    
3. Most reputable websites will display their Site Security License. NOTE: if the owner is using and service like PayPal you will not see an SSL displayed on the website (they use that [PayPal] service’s SSL.

Usually when you move your mouse pointer over the SSL a verification page should pop-up. (You may need to enable Pop-ups to complete shopping on many sites.) Or, you may be prompted to double-click on the license image to see the license information.

Midnight Jewels uses 258-bit encryption to ensure your information is protected.

Step 3 – Saving Proof of Security

Although it is not required, it may be helpful to save proof that you have verified the security of the website from which you make a purchase.

1. Right-Click anywhere in the white space (away from the fill-in fields) on the page.
     
2. Trace down and click on Properties. This opens a popup window that displays the website Encryption and SSL info. Drag it to the left side of the screen.
    
3. Click on the CERTIFICATES button.
    
4. This displays the SSL (Site Security License) information.

   A.	Check to whom the SSL is issued.
   B.	Check the Valid From date range. Never purchase if the certificate is out dated.

5. Move the windows (hold the left mouse button down over the title bar for each pop-up window and drag it) so you can see the website page address in the address bar at the top of the browser, and both pop-ups side-by-side.
    
6. Press the Print Screen button (located in the upper left corner of the middle keypad).
    
7. Open MS Word and paste (EDIT/Paste) the screen shot into the document, then save it.
    
8. Close both the pop-ups and continue your purchase with confidence.