Web security

[blackfive]

On some websites I get a warning telling me that my PC is broadcasting an address through which someone can attack my computer. How do I stop it doing this?

[TheHitMaker]

Get a firewall - this will block your IP address to the outside world, thereby helping to make you 'invisible' - well worth doing. I use Zone Alarm, available as a free download from Zonelabs.

[Zero]

I dont think it is to much of an issue with a dial up connection as you get given a new IP address every time you dial up. However your IP address does not change as often with broadband, thus leaving those hackers more time to try and enter your system. I think this is how it works but dont take this as gospel as it is something I am just starting to get my head around.

[lisaj]

Your PC isn't broadcasting anything. Your IP address (or house number) identifies your PC and as TheHitMaker suggests, installing a firewall (or front door lock) will ensure that only the data you want (or people you want) can come in and out. It doesn't stop all data, and in particular won't stop the stuff you allow in (such as email), and this is why you'll find a firewall will do nothing to protect you from email-borne virii.

[xyzzyplugh]

I had the same 'warning' today blackfive. It is just a stupid ad-pop up. Ignore it and don't click it. If possible don't revisit intrusive sites, especially ones that pop-up many windows or ask you in a dialogue box if they can please become your home page.

[whinger]

Have just finished a bit of research about this pop-up warning nuisance. We,ve commonly found 9 out of 10 ''your PC is at risk-to stop this happening again'' pop-ups are not the result of yours or a third partys security lapses, more a case that you will be forwarded to the software site that sent you the pop-up in the first place, and sell you a useless 'patch' or similar useless piece of software. You may-not even be aware that you are being charged for these software downloads, and they should be completely ignored by closing the pop-up window top right x.