I don’t have a router for wireless, nor do I have a network set up in my house. No other computer in my house can use the internet through this computer since i dont have a router, just a modem that connects me directly to the internet using broadband/cable. Can anyone hack into my computer through this? I really do not now anything about internet connections and I need your help to understand this. I am being a bit paranoid and I want to be sure. Thanks.
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October 30th, 2009 at 10:24 pm
There are a few ways to be “hacked through the Internet.” Here I address the things you seem to be concerned about.
One way is for someone else to be on your local network. Then they can snoop on any unencrypted traffic (like AIM or Facebook usage) and see what you’re doing online. It seems like this is not a concern for you because you don’t have a local network for a stranger to plug into (or get onto via a wireless connection).
Another way is for someone to attack your computer remotely. This means they directly attack your computer, rather than just look at the traffic going from your computer to the Internet. They try to scan your computer for any open ports or known software vulnerabilities, and then connect through those. The way to protect yourself from this is by (1) using a firewall, (2) using anti-virus software, and (3) keeping your operating system up-to-date. Many (maybe even most) critical Windows updates address this issue, so it’s very important to keep your OS updated.
Browsers are another path of attack. Sometimes they have vulnerabilities that allow arbitrary code to run on your computer. Keep your browser and other network-connected software up-to-date to try to mitigate this threat, plus your anti-virus engine should give you some protection. ALSO — don’t install random browser extensions (like IE browser helper objects or Firefox extensions)!! These extensions can put arbitrary spyware on your computer, and you shouldn’t install them unless you are confident that the provider of the extension is reputable.
October 31st, 2009 at 3:07 am
Yes!!! There are so many ways to hack into someones computer. Sometimes, they don’t even have to hack into your computer, but can still steal and use your internet. There are many devices out there that can do that.
There are ways of locking down you network. You probably need someone who knows how to lock down a network or internet to help you!
October 31st, 2009 at 9:07 am
Your computer requires a firewall and antivirus. Without a firewall it can easily be broken into. From your description it sounds like none of the other computers are networked together, the safest computer is a computer that is not connected to anything else so these are not a concern.
Windows has its own internal firewall that will most likely be sufficient for your needs if you switch it on. Some firewalls can be downloaded and installed for free and others need to be bought.
Antivirus programs can also be downloaded and installed for free or bought from a store.
Research both of these topics and you should be on the right track.
October 31st, 2009 at 2:59 pm
As long as you have your firewall turned on, you will be fine from internet based attacks. You hear that anyone can be hacked. But that’s mostly bull. Your firewall will easily stop any attack. What you should be worried about is getting infected.In all the computers I’ve clean that have been hacked, not one of them got hacked from just being on the internet. They all allowed their computer to get infected which then allows possibility of getting hacked.
October 31st, 2009 at 7:35 pm
A router with wifi disabled or encrypted actually provides more protection than being directly connected to the internet because it acts like a firewall.
Test out your security with GRC ShieldsUP!https://www.grc.com/x/ne.dll?bh0bkyd2
Test the Common Ports and All Service Ports
October 31st, 2009 at 9:53 pm
If you are connected to the internet, you can be hacked.
Make sure you keep your security packages up to date.
November 1st, 2009 at 12:38 am
no, as long as you don’t provide computer information like IP address
MAC address
don’t worry just don’t accept suspiciouss software and you will be fine.
November 1st, 2009 at 2:34 am
yea, if you have delicate information i suggest updating all programs like AIM, itunes, etc that you commonly use as well has encrypting your information
November 1st, 2009 at 9:13 am
yes i thinK so because my cuz was in the same position and her neighber used her internet with out her noing using her neighbors computer but yes they can.
November 1st, 2009 at 12:13 pm
first thing you dont even know what hacking means….if i stole a computer that was password protected i woud have to hack it
November 1st, 2009 at 1:37 pm
sure i can ur are an open source on broadband
November 1st, 2009 at 6:42 pm
Wow! you have some crazy pictures on your computer.