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Dear PC Doctor,
I've heard that when I log into Facebook, I need to be careful to check and make sure that the address in the address bar has an “s” in the “http” part so it says “https” instead. Why am I supposed to do this and what does this mean?
Kelly
Dear Kelly,
It's true that if you're at the actual Facebook website, the “http” in the address will change to an “https”. The “s” stand for “secure” which means that the website is actively protecting your login materials from being visible to an outsider. There are scams out there, where you may be asked to log into a website that looks like Facebook but actually isn't. These websites don't have the “https”. If you log into a malicious website, they'll have access to you and your friend's personal information from your Facebook account!
It's fairly easy to spot a shady website. If it looks somehow different, there's a good chance that it's a fake Facebook site. Be careful of clicking on links that bring you to a Facebook login screen. Ultimately make sure it's the right address in the address bar, that it says “https” for security and you'll be good to go!
PC Doctor
Until next time… happy computing!
Posted: to Athol Library News on Thu, Mar 29, 2012
Updated: Thu, Mar 29, 2012