What exactly is a secure server?

It is a software application similar to a web server application; however, the data is encrypted. We use 128-bit encryption on our server. This level of encryption is so secure that it is illegal to export this type of software outside of the United States and Canada because it is used for national security.

Is it safe to send my credit card number with my order in an email to a merchant?

Absolutely not! Normal email messages are not encrypted and therefore, are not the protected, secure way to send confidential information over the Internet.

How safe is it to give out my credit card over the web, on a secure web site's order page?

It has been estimated that for a hacker to decode a credit card using an Internet "sniffer" on an encrypted line, he would require the simultaneous coordinated efforts of every computer in the world for approximately 250 years. That's just to decode one credit card.

However, it's important to know when you are entering your credit card over a secure link.

How can I tell if I'm transferring my credit card information over a secure link on a web site's order page?

On the bottom of the MS Internet Explorer window, when you access a page that is secure, you will see an icon of a padlock in the locked position. You can click on this icon for security information.

On the bottom of the Firefox window, you will see a similar closed lock, when you view a secure page.

I tried accessing several "secure" web sites, but my browser says that I'm only getting 40-bit encryption. What does this mean?

You probably have an "Export Grade" browser. If you would like the added protection of 128-bit encryption, you should access your browser's website and download the 128-bit browser.

The Microsoft URL for their secure server is: http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/ie6/downloads/recommended/128bit/default.mspx