John Block said,
> For regular people dialing up over an isp, randomly given an ip and
> spending maximum 1 hour online, particularly running an amiga rather then
> pc software, does all this matter?
Yes, but not as much as if you were a PC user with a permanent
connection. However, if you use IRC you advertise both your IP address
and your operating system to anyone who find enjoyment in crashing other
people's Amigas.
> I have occasionally noticed modem lights blinking when I was unaware of
> doing anything and hit the modem's off button.
As Andrew said, it could be your ISP checking you're still online, it
could be your software checking your mailbox. Most likely it's a script
kiddie scanning your ports. Switching off the modem in this case is a
bit OTT, especially if you're in the middle of a download, and
unnecessary in most cases. Ensure your system is secure saves the hassle
and means you don't have to watch your modem lights. Would you notice
extra activity if someone probed your ports (oo-er) while you were
downloading mail?
Leaving your system open to attack because it's an Amiga is like leaving
your car unlocked because you live in a "nice neighbourhood". Remember
that Digital corruption published a list of 800 Amiga users' login and
password details a couple of years ago?
Neil
--
Neil Bothwick - New Media Editor, Amiga Active Magazine
Connected via Wirenet - http://www.wire.net.uk
The UK's first Amiga-only internet access provider
---
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