If a web site uses cookies, the organization may be able to collect even more information, such as your browsing patterns, which include other sites you've visited. If the site you're visiting is malicious, files on your computer, as well as passwords stored in the temporary memory, may be at risk. Generally, organizations use the information that is gathered automatically for legitimate purposes, such as generating statistics about their sites.

Be careful supplying personal information - Unless you trust a site, don't give your address, password, or credit card information. Look for indications that the site uses SSL to encrypt your information. Although some sites require you to supply your social security number (e.g., sites associated with financial transactions such as loans or credit cards), be especially wary of providing this information online.

For more information, please visit:

http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/tips/ST04-013.html
http://www.msisac.org/awareness/news/2006-07.cfm
http://www.msisac.org/awareness/news/2009-08.cfm

Partnerships
Additional information and resources for educating citizens on cyber issues and implementing sound cyber security practices are available at the following websites:

• DHS United States Computer Emergency Readiness Team
• National Cyber Security Alliance