Re: Zombified computers

From: Leythos (void_at_nowhere.com)
Date: 06/25/04 

Date: Fri, 25 Jun 2004 14:53:27 GMT

In article <mpdod01ql8jqtukuq4foeg8ec4lcafnuft@4ax.com>,
george1234pds@excite.com says...
> On Thu, 24 Jun 2004 23:52:51 +0200, Wolfgang Kueter
> <wolfgang@shconnect.de> wrote:
>
> >After reading a lot of articles by the OP these days I'd say that suggesting
> >air-gap or wire cutters is the right advice to him.
>
> Well... until I understand security better, this is what I've done.
> When I''m not at the home computer, I just switch off the DSL line. I
> realize this would impede those who want auto updates or an internet
> presence, but I want neither, at least not yet
>
> I've a NAT properly configured ( at least nothing is on DMZ and it
> passes shields up),w2k up to date, antivirus, antitrojan, anti
> spyware scanners, and, for good measure, I monitor proxexp and tcpview
> while working on line.
>
> Still, lurking on this forum has convinced me until I can understand
> more than half of what is said in detail , a wirecutter, or in my case
> the dsl power switch, is probably my best bet.

If you don't feel comfortable enough to leave it turned on when you are
away from it, why do you feel comfortable enough to leave it connected
to the internet when you are there in front of it?

With a typical computer, the user that thinks they are safe using dial-
up or turning it off when not around, is not really any safer, it's a
false sense of security. If your machine is properly patched (every
night, has quality anti-virus software, and is behind some form of
border device (NAT Router) you are about as safe as you can get at home
(without purchasing a firewall). You could always install Zone Alarm on
the PC and in conjunction with the router would be even better off.

It's good to see that you've taken the measures to protect your
computer. 

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