Older computers to lose NRVC access

To ensure that all online transactions work smoothly NRVC encourages members to check their operating systems and browsers to confirm that they are using relatively current editions.

An "operating system" is the overall platform from which a computer functions. The two main systems are Windows (for PCs) or Mac OS (for Apple). A "browser" is the software that lets people use the Internet. Popular browsers are Firefox (Mozilla), Chrome, Safari, and Internet Explorer.

As of February 28, 2018, PC users who wish to make credit card purchases on the NRVC website (membership registration, HORIZON subscription orders, and online store orders) must have one of the following:

1. Windows 7 or later operating system.

2. A browser released since approximately 2013. These browsers include the following forms or later editions: Chrome v22, Firefox v27, Safari v7, or Internet Explorer 11. 

Mac and Linux users also need to be sure they are running the latest (or a recent) browser version. 

Test your browser now!

Although we do not expect this to affect the majority of our members, it's a good idea to test your browser, using this this link sponsored by SSL Labs:

https://www.ssllabs.com/ssltest/viewMyClient.html

When you click it, the first item on the page that opens (Protocol Support) should be green and read: “Your user agent has good protocol support.”

If your operating system and/or browser fails the SSL Labs test above and/or your OS version is older than the ones mentioned above, you can find a list at this link indicating which OS/browser combinations offer the required TLS 1.2 security protocol, so that you can upgrade accordingly:

https://www.ssllabs.com/ssltest/clients.html

Why newer versions are needed

Support for web security protocol known as TLSv1.0 and v1.1 are being phased out internationally because they are no longer considered secure. Beginning February 28, NRVC's online merchant service provider will no longer allow purchases from outdated browsers using this protocol. If you are using an outdated browser or operating system after February 28, you will be able to view and navigate the NRVC website but will be unable to make credit card purchases.

Further ahead, in June of this year, TLSv1.0 support will be withdrawn altogether, and anyone using older browsers will not be able to view the NRVC website at all.

NRVC regrets any inconvenience this may cause, but the choice is outside the hands of our staff and contractors. The world of high-tech crime continues to advance, and security systems have to advance to stay ahead of the game. 

Note: If you vaguely remember having read an article like this last summer in this newsletter, you're not losing your mind. We advised you then of the impending withdrawal of TLS v1.0 support originally scheduled for September 2017. However, that cutoff date was postponed until this month.

Questions?

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Marge Argyelan at 773-363-5454 or margyelan@nrvc.net.