Hackers

[alkscd]

How do you protect your-self from Hackers.

[DrZaius]

Install antivirus software and keep it updated
Install a firewall program like Zone Alarm
Do not open strange email attachments
Do not download programs from file sharing apps (like Morpheus) and IRC

[HAL9000]

At a low level, with a software firewall such as ZoneAlarm. (http://www.zonelabs.com) If you have a full time high speed connection, you would want to use a router. Also, virus protection against trojans since with the security in place, a trojan can send plenty of info out.

[KR0316]

1. I use Nortons Antivirus and update every weekend
2. I use Nortons Firewall and update every weekend
3. I don't open any attachments from anyone I don't know
4. I don't share any music or movies from any online program like morpheus.

[Blakhart]

Start reading 2600. I get mine at Hastings.
This stuff is incredible. Know thy enemy....

[Techno Student]

Hey Blakheart, what's 2600?

[mkstein2]

I'll do you one better; I'd like to know about Hastings as well as 26000.

On the topic:
1. Cable connected to router.
2. Use ZoneAlarm firewall (paid for not free one).
3. Closed unnecessary ports and tested.
4. Use VEXIRA AntiVirus and update weekly.
5. Don't open strange email, especially attachments.
6. Shut down PC when not actually using.

Wife, son, and grandson also use PC occasionally so I still got virus, two different times.

MK

[Blakhart]

2600 is "The Hacker Quarterly".
Hastings is a book/video store. It's also at Borders and Barnes and Noble's.
2600 is something I would not subscribe to or EVER go to their website.
With the new laws on hacking coming, there's talk of hackers spending life in prison. This would only apply in certain cases though. I feel that their web sites are monitored and everything logged, as well as subscribers being noticed. You want to be on a fedlist?? The reason I get the mag is because I didn't know what they(hackers) did or how naked we really are as far as being attacked goes. Another source of info is grc.com. Find the story about the 13yr old hack attacking his systems. It is an outstanding story and very funny when he traces the attackers and joins in on their little network! Most schools and some ISP's routinely block 2600. Not everyone who writes in 2600 is bad but they do all seem to feel that they have the right or duty to break into others' computers and rummage around.
I have tried to be even handed here with my description of the mag, as I am sure someone will email them or write them what I have stated.
Without it, we may not have insight into their techniques and even their thoughts...

[morriswindgate]

Another thing, although it doesn't get the publicity, is don't open any of the buddy list mail (Multiple layers, Multiple Addressees)from AOL. I have seen several infections and even computer damage from the buddy list crap.

[morriswindgate]

Another thing I forgot, if you use chat rooms or instant messenger software. Create a new email addresss for them with one of the free e-mail services on the net. Do not use your primary e-mail for anyone but people you know personally.
I got a call from a friend today that is getting spamed (600 e-mails today) from gay porno sites because he gave out his primary e-mail on a chat room.

[mkstein2]

Thank you Morriswindgate! That is what I consider very useful information.

Again, thanks.

MK

[Katrenavantassle]

I had to remove a virus that got thru our server, was spamming all the pcs on the line, and it was a mess. Took about a week to get it completely cleaned out... good idea, about using a internet email address...instead of your primary one. I have three internet email addresses, and two primary ones. Guess its necessary now.
oh yea, due to that spamming, alot of web servers, would not except email from our company due to that virus, and I had to contact them individually to explain, that it was corrected before they would let our mail out to them...... cant say that I blame them... and this virus came from within AOL>..... a certain user..... that nows AOL is the hardest service to Hack..supposedly...so he could not be hacked back at.......well.......i hope he changes hobbys soon.......

[Katrenavantassle]

And forgot to mention that we do have a router, and NOrton Antivirus Protection on the Server too.........and the hacker still got in...............go figure?????

[=justice]

Hey,Blackhart,
If they do start sending serious hackers to the Big House, they'll just give them computers and internet access so they can hack from there. They'll probably end up with better systems ythan you and I have....'course, we'll be buying 'em.

[Statica]

Here's the sure fire way of keeping your server/computer free from hackers:
<b>paranoia</b>

Most people are susceptible to hacks because they believe that:
(a) they have nothing of value to hackers
(b) they are secure.
If there is anything we can take back from the proliferation of home-PC targetted trojans and of DDoS' is that every PC that will generate a bandwidth, or an accesspoint is valuable to a hacking effort. there are numerous reasons why anyone could be at risk of a hack, but the feeling that just by installing a program or be putting in a bundled gatekeeper they are secure is one that must change.
If there is an antivirus, it needs an update .. if there is a firewall, it needs monitoring, logging, and perhaps even updating.. if there is an operating system it needs updating. Use your resources to the best of your needs. If your 'protector' is trying to protect a critical corporate entity, then the easy route or the "bundled" route is NOT the way to go. There needs to be some solid investment of time and money in getting something more than a just a simple software protecting especially one that runs Microsoft anything.
The other thing to keep in mind is be paranoid about your clients ie the people who have the keys to walk in and out of your systems. This does not just mean the person that logs in, but also the person who has physical access to the systems. One way to get them in line is also to educate them .. teaching them that if they open a file, even though filled with promises of anna kournikova, they will be without network access for a while...
I also believe in stringent monitoring (within limits of policy) of clients.
If you are going to dedicate a machine to being the gatekeeper, then might as well do it with a robust NIX, and might as well run mailscans on SMTP and POP/IMAP.

<HR>
Katrenavantassle: You'd be better served with something like trendmicro serverscan

[Computer Hobbyist]

Originally posted by alkscd
How do you protect your-self from Hackers.

HI,

While I generally agree with everything said, I strongly disagree with the misuse of the word "hacker" to describe what hackers call "crackers." If you want a hacker's insight read this link (http://www.tuxedo.org/~esr/faqs/hacker-howto.html). I think Raymond explains what I am talking about.

CH