How do I determine if data I am sending over the Internet is secure?

Our data or information about our clients or ourselves must keep secure. The problem of security has long been a concern of many people and large corporations. Today we have the utilization of a secure server and the ability to download anti-virus software that includes a firewall. The firewall protects all our personal information, which is of the utmost importance. What should we look for when we are about to send our information? Look at the URL in your browser. Check to make sure the address begins with https:// this indicates this is a secure site. Most websites do begin with the http:// but make sure the (s) is at the end of the address; the (s) stands for secure. Next check for the lock that is at the end of your browser make sure the lock is closed that is another manner in checking your security levels. The lock is not just a graphic it provides information about the security of the website. You may check out the security by clicking on the lock for the information. The next important thing is if the website contains a site seal to clearly indicate to their customers that the site is secured. When checking the site seal make sure the date and time are stamped on it then run your mouse over the seal to make sure the site seal is functional.