Why Your Browser Matters "Why Your Browser Matters,” is a framework for websites to create “teachable moments” for site visitors, raising awareness of the security, privacy, and performance risks of using outdated browsers.  According to comScore data and OTA research, as of Feb 1, 2012 over 60% of Windows users worldwide are using outdated browsers, and fail to realize the advantages of upgrading.  The purpose of this initiative is to provide a framework and prescriptive advice for consumer-facing websites to implement “teachable moments,” promoting the virtues of consumers running and installing the most up-to-date version of their browser.  “Why Your Browser Matters” calls on consumer-facing ecommerce, banking and social networking sites to develop plans to engage, help educate and provide their users a more trustworthy and productive online experience. OTA recognizes the innovation of the developers of leading browsers including Google, Microsoft, Mozilla and Opera.  As a result of their efforts, consumers have more choices than ever for an up-to-date browser which can be downloaded in minutes, at no cost.  Updated  Images & Graphics for site implementation Presentation Overview - Case Studies & Do Not Track Header - March 14 (recorded webinar on OTA member site) Microsoft Announces Automatic Browser Updates for Internet Explorer (Microsoft - 12/15) Microsoft gets silent upgrade religion, will push IE auto-updates (Computerworld - 12/15) Microsoft plans true auto updates for Internet Explorer (GeekWire - 12/15) Why Your Browser Matters - Press Release Supporting Organizations & Quotes Why Your Browser Matters Implementation Guide - PDF (updated 10/11) Your Browser Matters Blog Resources The concept of teachable moments refers to providing contextual, in-browser session recommendations to consumers based on their online activities. The primary focus is consumer-facing websites including ecommerce, social networking and financial services and any site where consumers may share personal data or conduct online transactions.  As the first line of defense, the use of updated browser is the foundation of many industry and government initiatives including the support of the National Strategy for Trusted Identities in Cyberspace (NSTIC), secure DNS (DNSSEC) and Extended Validation SSL Certificates, (EV SSL) and always on SSL.  In addition the use of updated browsers and the inclusion of privacy enhancing features including do not track mechanisms support the call for privacy enhancing efforts by the European Union Article 29 Working Group and U.S. Federal Trade Commission. This initiative understands the complexities of website management and the user experience. It is anticipated many websites may take several months implementing their customized version to meet the needs of their customers. Supporting these efforts, OTA will continue to update materials and highlight early adopters who have demonstrated a commitment to online security and privacy. In addition OTA recommends web sites consider parallel efforts to help educate users  including the support of the Stop Think Connect Campaign, supported by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Anti-Phishing Working Group and the National Cybersecurity Alliance.   More information Implementation Concepts Modified Home Page (Click on Welcome) Sample Landing Page with in-page notice Sample Teachable Moments Page (Concept Only) Sample Teachable Moments Page (Concept Only - Extended / Layered Notice) Resources Sample Code (beta) Image Gallery Browser Share Data Sample FAQ - draft Browser Update Links Resources WYBM in the News Updated 10/11 ©2012.  All rights reserved.  Online Trust Alliance (OTA)