Feeling Paranoid At The Moment Can My Neighbours Spy On My Computer

[gordiescotland1]

Hi there can any of my neighbours spy on my computer. Is that being paranoid?

[Buenchico]

If your router uses a password-protected, encrypted signal (as any 'out of the box' router does by default anyway) your neighbours can't access your network (and thus can't access your computer files or internet traffic).

Some routers might use the older 'WEP' encryption system, which isn't as secure as the newer WPA2 system, but it still needs a determined hacker to break into your system. (Joe Bloggs next door can't do it).

Even if your router isn't properly secured (leaving your neighbour free to use your internet connection) the routine security protocols within Windows should still prevent your files being accessed. (i.e. Windows has networking turned off by default).

[Buenchico]

I wish I'd seen your post in B&S before posting here. If so, I'd have given you the simple answer: "No!"

[gordiescotland1]

It has a password on my router yes and I use that to get connected to the internet on my tablet and pc thanks for that. I am feeling better now I think I have taken too much strong sedation over the last few days.

[237SJ]

I've read that it's possible to spy on people through their webcam but I don't know how easy it is. There is information on the norton site about it (can't do links as I'm on my tablet)

[HansUrbancka]

I am unable to add to what has been said by Buenchico.

My answer was going to be a brief NO; unless they are looking through a window of your house and can see enough to read your computer/laptop screen.

Hans.

[Buenchico]

>>>I've read that it's possible to spy on people through their webcam

True but, in the unlikely event of it happening, it would be because someone in (say) Nigeria or Russia (who was looking for a way of blackmailing you) had managed to get you to install malicious software on your computer by clicking on a dodgy link. It's not going to be your neighbour (unless you happen to live next door to a Nigerian fraudster!)

[gordiescotland1]

i dont have a webcam

[bazwillrun]

is your neighbour a Ruskie.......or maybe a Kitchen Sink.... !?

[Peter Pedant]

yes of course they can

and you're not being paranoid_ Alex Salmond really IS using your computer to send out spam emails....sorry er I mean SNP fliers

[hc4361]

Peter Pedant, sometimes there is no place for levity on a thread and this is one of those times.

[gness]

Peter...you should ask for that post to be removed.

[Peter Pedant]

Oh readers please lighten up

and if anyone wishes to apply to zap whatever it is I have written that is upsetting people - please hit delete

[Gusta]

If you have any concerns change all your passwords - use a combination of numbers, symbols and letters

[gness]

There are times when members need help or advice, Peter....if you can't offer either keep quiet.

[wolf63]

Gordie - I have a sticky label over my webcam on my laptop. The sane part of me knows that nobody is going to bother spying on me - but the not so sane part of me is not taking chances.

PP - Gordie is trying to calm himself down from what he knows is an irrational paranoia. Normally I would attempt to inject some humour into a thread but there is a time and a place.