These Tips for Using Wireless Internet and Frequently Asked Questions ("FAQs") that follow are provided so that you are better informed about the security limitations and features of using wireless Internet, such as Optimum WiFi.

Wireless Local Area Networks ("WLANs"), which enable "over-the-air" communications, may be subject to unauthorized interception and are not inherently secure. Additionally, a laptop computer, personal digital assistant ("PDA"), or other device using wireless connections may be more vulnerable to unauthorized attempts to access data and software stored on the device. Therefore, the privacy of your data and communications while using Optimum WiFi is not guaranteed.

We do not provide protection for any Internet communications. Once you connect to the Internet, you are responsible for taking steps to protect your communications. You can do this by using appropriate encryption technologies, such as a Virtual Private Network ("VPN") or by only transmitting sensitive information via websites that offer Secure Socket Layer ("SSL") technology. You should be especially careful when transmitting user names, passwords, credit card numbers, financial data and other sensitive and confidential information across the Internet. If you do not take steps to ensure your communications are protected, they may be vulnerable to unauthorized interception at the Community Zone location or on the Internet.

Optimum WiFi strongly recommends that you take measures to secure your Wi-Fi devices and Internet communications. As an Optimum Online subscriber, you are entitled to download the CA Internet Security Suite Plus 2008 at no additional charge. Optimum Online also encourages customers to use other customer-provided security solutions, such as anti-virus software, personal firewalls, anti-spyware software, anti-phishing software, parental controls, data backup and transfer software, and anti-spam filters. It is your responsibility, however, to take these precautions and provide security measures best suited to your situation and intended use of the service.

Below are some tips that can help you protect yourself when using Optimum WiFi or any other public Wi-Fi service to access the Internet:

• While using your browser, verify that it is using SSL to validate the Optimum WiFi network via server-side authentication, You can do this by following these procedures.
  To check the website certificate:
  

  In Internet Explorer 6 or Firefox Double-click the small lock icon in the bottom right section of the browser window.

  In Internet Explorer 7 1. Click the Page drop-down menu in the top-right section of the browser window. 2. Select Security Report.

  
  
• Be aware that others may be able to look over your shoulder to see your login, credit card, or other personal information while using the service. The use of a privacy screen on your computer screen may help prevent others from seeing what is on your computer.
• Ensure that any website to which you are transmitting sensitive personal or financial information uses SSL technology. To confirm that a website is using SSL:
  • Look for the "https://..." in the URL address
  • Look for a closed padlock (or key) icon in the bottom right-hand corner of your Internet browser as indicators you are accessing a secure site.
• Do not ignore security warnings from the browser.
• Inspect the Web site address in your browser's URL field to ensure you are communicating with the correct, secure Web site.
• Use VPNs and personal firewalls.
• Use anti-virus software and keep the software updated.
• Properly log out of web sites by clicking log out instead of just closing your browser or typing in a new Internet address.
• Be aware if the application is encrypted and behave accordingly if not.

I've heard WLANs being called "802.11b/g and Wi-Fi networks. What does that mean?
It means that the WLAN network conforms to the industry standards applicable to WLANs, known by the technical "802.11b/g name as well as Wi-Fi". Optimum WiFi is based on the 802.11a/b/g standards. Although these are widely adopted industry standards, they will likely evolve to allow higher speeds and greater security in the future.

Is WLAN Internet access less secure than wired Internet service networks?
As the name implies, WLANs transmit data wirelessly or "over the air." Because of this, they are more vulnerable to attempts to intercept and read data by persons in the vicinity of an Optimum WiFi common zone. (That said; keep in mind that it is also possible for data traveling on a wired network to be intercepted.) Additionally, a hacker could attempt to use the wireless connection between the device and the access point, whether you are on the Internet or not, to gain access to your device, including software and data stored on the device. The safeguards recommended for Optimum WiFi users should be used whenever you are using any type of wireless technology via any service provider.

How do I ensure that I am connected to the Optimum WiFi network and not an unintended third-party Wi-Fi network?
Be sure the exact URL listed on login page is hotspots.optimumonlinewifi.com.

How can I protect my devices and data when using an Optimum Wifi hotspot?
Make sure you have a firewall program installed on your system to help prevent unauthorized access from any hackers in the area. Run updated anti-virus software at all times. Anti-virus software should be set to automatically update itself to ensure that the most current signatures are running on your computer. You should also scan for spyware regularly (we suggest weekly).

When logging on to Optimum WiFi, are my user name and password secure?
When you log on to Optimum WiFi, you are required to supply a valid user name and password combination for authentication purposes. This information is encrypted during the authentication process.

How secure are web-based email services?
We encourage you to use Optimum Webmail, which is encrypted. Other e-mail applications, such as Outlook Express and Eudora, are not encrypted. You can check with your email service provider to learn about your specific email service and its encryption or security features. Typically, only the login page is SSL encrypted, and the closed padlock (or key) icon will be displayed on your web browser for any such pages. We also encourage you to make sure your POP connection is secure. Please note that Optimum WiFi does not provide security with respect to your use of third party websites or services.

If my connection is momentarily interrupted, does that mean my Internet session has been "stolen"?
You can lose your wireless connection for a variety of reasons not related to security, such as something blocking or interfering with the radio signal, or moving WiFi enabled device too far away from the Optimum WiFi common zone access point. However, an unexplained loss of connection or deterioration of the service could also indicate that a hacker has obtained access to the Internet using your Optimum Online account (by using your physical network address). This is often referred to as session stealing or hijacking. If you suspect this has occurred, log off immediately so that any such stolen session will be ended.

Will Optimum WiFi continue to enhance WLAN security?
We are committed to working with our equipment suppliers to continue to develop and implement software and other solutions designed to provide enhanced security for customers using Optimum WiFi. Please check our Security Statement and these FAQs regularly for updates regarding new wireless security technologies.