CaféNET Security

CaféNET is an open wireless network designed for ease of use. Wireless networks, by their nature, can be intercepted. We strongly recommend you use a personal firewall when connecting to CafeNET and a VPN if you are connecting to your office.

By using the service you agree that we are not liable to you or any other party for any lack of security that may result from your use of the service.

When logging on to CaféNET, are my username and password secure?

YES.  The CaféNET web site uses SSL technology to encrypt your user ame and password. SSL is the current standard encryption technique for web-based transactions across the Internet.

When purchasing CaféNET Services on-line, is my credit card information safe?

YES. The CaféNET website uses SSL encryption to protect your credit card and other payment card information. SSL encryption is employed on cafenet.co.nz whether accessing sign-up at CaféNET HotSpot or via another Internet service provider.

To assist you in identifying secure websites, your web browser may indicate "https://..." in the address and show a closed padlock (or key) icon as indicators of security.

While these indicators are helpful, please be aware that different browsers and web sites may use different methods of denoting security or SSL encrypted content, and the presence of any particular icon is not necessarily a guarantee of total security. You should know that CaféNET does not provide security with respect to your use of third party websites or services. Users concerned about the security of their credit card and other information should deal only with trusted sources and service providers on the Internet.

Is CaféNET less secure than wired Internet service networks?

WiFi transmits data over the air so it is more vulnerable to attempts to intercept and read data by people in the vicinity of the HotSpot during the time the data travels wirelessly.

Unless you are only connecting to a trusted, wired network, we recommend you use a personal firewall at all times.

What can I do to enhance the security of my communications?

Keep in mind that no solution or practice can guarantee security, and not every solution can abate every security risk. Below are some personal practices and technology solutions you should use to enhance security when using CaféNET, or any other service you use to access the Internet.

• Don't leave your computer or device unattended
• Don't loan your computer or device to someone unfamiliar to you
• Watch for "over the shoulder" viewing of your login, credit card, or other personal information
• Properly log out of web sites by clicking log out instead of just closing your browser, or typing in a new Internet address
• Passwords should be a combination of letters and numbers
• Keep passwords and account numbers secure; don't store them on your computer or device, or share them with anyone
• Change your passwords frequently
• When transmitting confidential information (e.g., credit card information) look for "https//..." in the web page address and a locked padlock (or key) icon on your Internet browser as indicators you are accessing a secure site
• Use a virtual private network (VPN) solution if available and supported by the network
• Use a personal firewall if available and supported by the network
• Make sure that your computer does not have file sharing active (for example in Windows click on network settings in the Control Panel, then find and uncheck file and print sharing). Other users on the network may be able to access your files if you do.
• Avoid using web-based email or instant messaging that uses clear (unencrypted) text to send information you deem confidential
• Remove or disable your wireless card if you are working offline on your computer and you are not planning to connect to the HotSpot service

		Caution CaféNET is a public network and it may contain threats to your equipment or information. CaféNET advises the use of a and/or appropriate to your needs. More information is available here.