Internet Explorer 6
Using AutoComplete
AutoComplete is a feature that saves information typed into text fields on the Internet, such as email passwords and search engine queries, as well as the Address text box in Internet Explorer. As you type the initial letters or numbers, AutoComplete will present you with a pull-down list with appropriate choices that have been entered in the recent past. The list of matches is stored on your computer and encrypted to protect your privacy. Thus, websites cannot get this information unless you submit the form or log in.
AutoComplete can save time as well as eliminate the need to remember different username/password combinations or specific search engine queries, but it also presents a security risk as any person using your computer will have access to your entered information including email passwords or credit card numbers.
NOTE: It is recommended that you keep a hard copy of all your usernames and passwords, especially if you have several different combinations, use them infrequently, or AutoComplete is not accessible. Keep these in a secure location.
Enabling AutoComplete
The default settings for AutoComplete generally include web addresses, usernames and passwords on forms, and the prompt to save passwords. The AutoComplete default is not set to remember information on forms.
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From the Tools menu, select Internet Options...
The Internet Options dialog box appears. -
Select the Content tab
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In the Personal information section, click AUTOCOMPLETE...
The AutoComplete Settings dialog box appears.
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In the Use AutoComplete for section, select the box next to the desired function(s)
NOTE: A check mark indicates that AutoComplete has been activated for that particular function. -
Click OK
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To close the Internet Options dialog box, click OK
Disabling AutoComplete
You might want to disable AutoComplete if you share a computer that does not have individual profile capabilities and you do not want future users to have access to sensitive information.
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From the Tools menu, select Internet Options...
The Internet Options dialog box appears. -
Select the Content tab
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In the Personal information section, click AUTOCOMPLETE...
The AutoComplete Settings dialog box appears. -
In the Use AutoComplete for section, deselect all functions by clicking on the check marks
NOTE: A function is not selected when there is no checkmark in front of it. - OPTIONAL: For additional security, if you are working at a shared computer for which you do not have individual log-in capabilities, clear the AutoComplete history:
- To clear web form entries, click CLEAR FORMS
A confirmation dialog box appears. - Click OK
- To clear usernames and passwords, click CLEAR PASSWORDS
A confirmation dialog box appears. -
Click OK
- To clear web form entries, click CLEAR FORMS
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Click OK
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To close the Internet Properties dialog box, click OK
