Wednesday, January 31, 2007

Security Status Bar in IE 7


Security Status Bar in IE 7

Scenario:
I just upgraded to Internet Explorer 7. One of the websites that I must visit (WebMail @TNCC) now displays the message, "There is a problem with this website's security certificate.” I also see a red X in the address bar, indicating a certificate error.

Question:
What is it and what do I do?

What is it?
It is a new feature in IE 7 and is also included in the new Windows Vista operating system. It is there to enhance awareness of website security and privacy settings by displaying color-coded notifications next to the address bar. Internet Explorer 7 changes the Address Bar to green for websites bearing new High Assurance certificates, indicating the site owner has completed extensive identity verification checks. The address bar changes to pink if it can not verify the security of the website.

What do I do?
In the case of the WebMail @TNCC you would click Continue to this Website (not recommended). If you receive these warning messages while browsing to other secure websites (website that begin with https) you have to determine if you can trust the website.


Thomas Nelson Community College is working to obtain and issue the new High Assurance certificates.

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