KRK said:
Hello,
The help pages on 'shared files' refer to sharing with users on the same
PC, or with users on the same 'network' . Does 'network' include anybody
on the internet ? If I have shared files can they be read by anyone on
the web ?
That's why we have firewalls. Yes, when you are online you are on a
network. Some ways to protect your computer:
1. If you have cable/dsl, even if you only have one computer it is a
good idea to purchase a router instead of just connecting your computer
directly to the cable/dsl modem. The router gives your computer a
private IP address so it can't be seen directly from the Internet.
2. Always use a firewall. The built-in Windows Firewall is adequate for
most people.
3. If you only have one computer, turn off File & Printer Sharing. In
Vista, if you are directly connected to the Internet you should have
your network connection set to "Public" and not "Private".
4. Always run a current version antivirus (not earlier than 2006). Keep
the subscription and virus definitions updated.
Here are some links that will help you stay safe on the Internet:
http://www.getsafeonline.org/
https://www.mysecurecyberspace.com/
http://www.getnetwise.org/
Carnegie Mellon University also has a very helpful project going to help
users identify phishing sites:
Information about the CUPS test and phishing:
http://www.cmu.edu/news/archive/2007/September/sept24_phishing.shtml
Link to the Anti-Phishing Phil game:
http://cups.cs.cmu.edu/antiphishing_phil/
Malke
