At BonaVista, we are committed to providing you with a secure and protected online environment. In doing so, we apply the latest technology and industry practices to ensure that your online information is kept confidential. To ensure your privacy, confidential information should never be sent by email.
Do’s and Don’ts Regarding Personal Computer Use
Below are some safe practices regarding the use of your personal computer:
- Use a password on your computer. If you have several accounts make sure each account is password protected.
- Keep your computer up-to-date with vendor security releases. This applies to operating systems, firewalls, ant-virus and anti-spyware programs.
- Don’t open email attachments that you aren’t expecting or don’t know the source. If you must open such attachments, save them to disc first and scan them with anti-virus software before opening them. Make sure your anti-virus software is up-to-date before you do this. Don’t send personal and financial information as a result of email solicitation without verifying that the request is legitimate;
- Be aware that if others can see your screen, they may be able to read your personal and financial information or obtain your login ID or password.
- Don’t access personal or financial information on the Internet or use email from a WiFi (wireless) hotspot or a wireless connection at home if it isn’t properly secured.
- Use a good anti-virus program.
- Use a good personal firewall (the latest Windows operating systems include firewalls, or a free one such as Zonealarm, which is easy to obtain and use, may be suitable).
- Use an anti-spyware program.
- Don’t access BonaVista's website from personal computers that are used for sharing songs or videos with other users on the Internet, as there are many spy features that can accompany these programs.
- Scan your personal computer occasionally for security vulnerabilities, viruses and spyware. You can use free services of high quality that are available on the Internet, including:
Browser Selection, Features and Use
BonaVista supports most popular browsers, but please bear in mind the following:
- Always use the latest available version of the browser.
- Use 128 bit encryption.
- Make sure you update the browser with the latest security releases from the vendor on a regular basis.
- Load a fresh copy of your browser before accessing BonaVista's website.
Website Activity
BonaVista monitors website activity to better understand the needs of our clients and to improve our service offerings. We use this information strictly to improve our website.
Terminology
For definitions of common Internet security terms, please visit Microsoft’s website.