The new product will address issues of security and safety on the net while surfing, according to the giant software company.

Internet Explorer 8, which was recently released, is the latest version of Microsoft’s popular Internet browsing software and has been designed specifically to make your online experience more secure.

“Internet Explorer 8 does open you up to a security minefield that you need to be aware of, particularly if you’re using a computer that hundreds of other people also have access to,” stated Emmanuel Birech, Developer & Platform Manager, Microsoft East and Southern Africa.

“If one is not careful about cleaning off all the traces that is left behind on a public computer, it’s possible that someone else could have access to another persons’ most personal information like credit card numbers, bank account details or passwords,” Birech pointed out.

“Luckily,” he added, “companies like Microsoft are working hard to ensure that you can surf the Internet on public computers without worrying about having your personal details stolen when you leave.”

In Ethiopia, many people rely on public places like Internet Cafes, Libraries and schools to access the Internet, check e-mail.

The way the Internet works is that it leaves little “signs” and “trails” all over the World Wide Web when you surf websites and log into your secure accounts (like Facebook, online shopping sites or even your online bank account).

Some of this information is stored on the computer and can be accessed by someone who has a relatively good understanding of computers and where to find these little “cookie crumbs”.
“When Internet Explorer 8 was released, I simply had to install it and find out what all the fuss was about. And my customers and I were very pleased,” noted Yonas Tesfaye, GM of Computer Revolution in Ethiopia, an ICT company based in Addis Ababa.

A feature called InPrivate, gives you the ability to surf the Internet in virtual anonymity, preventing the computer from permanently recording your browsing history, and storing temporary Internet files and little tracking files called cookies.

“InPrivate is also a lot more powerful, giving users the ability to filter content coming from third parties, which may give them information about your surfing habits,” Yonas said.

Users have full control over what can and can’t track their activities so it gives you peace of mind that you know exactly what is happening with your personal information.

“Internet Explorer 8 has a host of other security technologies that will also ensure that your personal surfing habits and identity information are secure – especially in places where lots of people share public computers,” Birech added.