The various browsers have different ways of indicating to the user whether security is in effect.  Please also be aware that security is set on each Web page and some pages within the Web site may be secure while others are not.  If the page contains information that is considered to be sensitive, such as your password or social security number, the page should be secure and all information encrypted.

Microsoft Internet Explorer:

If you are connected to a secure site and security is in effect a little locked padlock icon will be visible on the bottom frame of your browser's window. To get more detailed information on security in effect, while connected to the secure site, on the top menu bar click on 'File', then click on 'Properties', then in the resulting pop-up window read the Protocol line. If secure, it will say HyperText Transfer Protocol with Privacy. Click the Certificates tab for even more details.

Netscape Navigator:

A variable padlock icon is always visible in the lower left corner of the browser window. If the padlock appears unlocked, the connection is not secure. If the padlock is locked, the connection is secure. To get more detailed information on security in effect, while connected to the secure site, on the top menu bar click on 'View', then click on 'Page Info', then in the resulting screen read the Security item. If secure, it will say so, and a item will describe the security certificate.