Giving Online and Netscape "Bad Data" Error

If you're using Netscape to connect to Giving Online, you may receive the following error message:

Netscape has encountered bad data from the server

This happens because certain versions of Netscape are not compatible with the latest version of the encryption software installed on the secure Giving Online server. The problem occurs with Netscape versions 4.5.x, 4.6.x, and 4.7 x; it may also occur with other versions.

The problem is easily corrected by changing one Netscape setting, as follows:

1.   Click on the Security button on the Netscape navigation tool bar.

2.   Select Navigator from the Security Information Menu.

3.   Scroll down to Advanced Security (SSL) Configuration and de-select (uncheck) Enable SSL (Secure Sockets Layer) v3.

Please Note: Do not uncheck SSL v2. SSL v2 must be enabled to ensure that your transmissions with secure servers are encrypted.

4.   Click OK.

If you continue to have problems accessing Giving Online, please contact the ITS User Support Center ((413) 585-4487).