What Happens When Internet Security Features DISABLED??

[Maye]

Hi,

This might sound like a stupid question, but I was wondering ...

I am currently using Norton System Works 2003, and this morning my dad accidently disabled all the Internet security features on it and has been running the internet for a few hours without it. Basically I am wondering if anything can happen during that time... am I prone to get viruses or attacks?

Thanks!

if you are up to date with your windows update you should be fine.

it depends alot on what you are running in the background and if you have shares open

i really dont think you have anything to worry about, i suggest you dont do it often.


What type of internet do you have?

[Maye]

I am using IE 6 .... I don't use Windows Update, cuz I was told that System Works(AV) was suffient enough to protect me from any threats.

When security features are enabled,I frequently get notices saying that "Default Block Backdoor/ SubSeven Trojan Horse" Blocked", so I know I am safe. But what happens when the security features are turned off and lets say that the Backdoor/ Sub Seven Trojan Horse tries to connect to my computer? Does that mean that they could send viruses over or could it just be a port scan looking for that particular virus?

Thanks for your help GroundZero3 : )

who told you didnt need to update your windows?

you should, because just because you have a software firewall doesnt not mean your fully protected. Softwall firewalls have vulnerabilites also. i suggest you do all the windows critical updates



most of the time when you get then "Default Block Backdoor/ SubSeven Trojan Horse" Blocked" its some script kiddy looking for an open machine to connect too. thats not unusual

[RicheemxX]

Originally posted by Maye
I am using IE 6 .... I don't use Windows Update, cuz I was told that System Works(AV) was suffient enough to protect me from any threats.

well first off it would be a good idea to make sure you have all the windows updates anyways it doesn't take long to download and install them.

When security features are enabled,I frequently get notices saying that "Default Block Backdoor/ SubSeven Trojan Horse" Blocked", so I know I am safe. But what happens when the security features are turned off and lets say that the Backdoor/ Sub Seven Trojan Horse tries to connect to my computer? Does that mean that they could send viruses over or could it just be a port scan looking for that particular virus?

when your securtiy is off then yes it means that IF that tojan has been placed on your computer you are open to attacks. But it may just be a port scan looking for openings or it mightjust be nothing and thats what norton is calling it, unless of course this is something trying to connect from within your computer??

make sure you installed the latest virus definitions and updates for system works to be well protected

if you dont have anti virus

http://housecall.trendmicro.com/
here is a free online scan

[Maye]

I recently had my system formatted, and the guy who set it all up for me said that I really didn't need to. He said he himself hasn't been using windows updates for several years now and that he has not had any problems nor virus attacks for a long time. He told me that my computer is set up the exact same way as his.

I will take your advice on the critical updates though... I used to windows update, so I thought it was wierd that I didn't need to anymore.

you should tell your friend his practice of not updating his windows so far has been lucky.

there has been one or two flaws that can take over your system just by going to a website, that most softwares wont even notice.

also some viruses were obtain just by going to a website.

the internet can be a dirty place sometimes


Jason

[John Prophet]

Your friend probably had a lot of customers who got the "blaster" worm, lol.

[Maye]

He was referred to me from a friend of mine... Just my luck! Thank goodness for TechIMO! Or else I'd be totally clueless!!

Thanks for all your help : )