Information Systems: Jason's Web Site Tips:
Here's a 1-2-3 for you! - (one cool web site, one browser tip, one web site tip)

May 9^th, 2008
By Jason Levy

1) cool web site --> www.chacha.com - Who pitched for the Yankees last night?  How much horsepower does a 1965 Mustang V8 have?  When was Charles W. Bollinger born?  All of these questions can be quickly answered by sending a text message to "242242".  Within a few minutes (three based on my experience) you will receive a text message with an answer.  You can also text your message through Cha Cha's web site, or even call their toll free number.  When I first stumbled upon this web site, I became an addict, texting them questions non-stop.  How does it work?  They claim to have 10,000 part-time employees paid per question they answer.  The service is completely free to use, but standard text messaging charges per your cellular phone carrier will apply.

2) browser tip --> How can I change the default home page in Internet Explorer?  1) Open Internet Explorer  2) Click on the "Tools" tab 3) Select "Internet Options" 4) Make sure the "General" tab is selected 5) In the box that says "Home page", change the address to your desired web site address.  6) Click "Apply" at the bottom of the dialog box.  7) Click "OK"  8) You're done!

3) web site tip --> Have you ever supplied sensitive information online and wondered if it was really safe?  I could write a lengthy discussion about this topic, but to keep it short and simple, look at the URL in the address bar.  If you see the address begin with "https://" instead of "http://" that means the data you enter will be encrypted, and can not be easily read by a third party.

Additionally, in Internet Explorer look for a lock on the top of the page.

If you use FireFox, the lock looks a little different, but serves the same purpose, representing a secure connection.

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Please feel free to contact me with questions/comments.

Thanks,
Jason