Is your system Hacker Proof?

The only way to make your computer completely hacker proof is to turn it off or disconnect it from the Internet. The real issue is how to make your computer 99% hacker proof. An unprotected computer connected to the Internet via broadband (cable, DSL) is like leaving your car running with the doors unlocked and the keys in it which a thief might interpret as "please steal me". Locking a car or installing a security system makes stealing a car more difficult. A broadband Internet connection is easier to hack because it is "always-on" and often has a static IP address. This means that once a hacker or script kiddie finds your computer, it is easier to find it again. Most 56k dial-up Internet connections use a new IP address each time you connect which makes it much harder to find your computer again unless a trojan horse has been installed which can phone home each time you connect.

Using personal firewall, Anti-Virus, Anti-Trojan and privacy software will protect your computer and data from most, if not all, script kiddies, commercial data collectors and  malware (virus, worm & Trojan horse) if you install them correctly and keep them updated. If you are connecting two or more computers to the Internet, you should also use a hardware router with firewall features. These products provide adequate protection because most "attacks" are impersonal. That is, the attackers are not targeting your computer but are looking for any easy mark connected to the Internet. If you make it difficult for them to find and gain entry to your computer, they will most likely leave you alone.

If a real hacker decides to attack your computer, you can make it difficult for them but if they are good, they will likely find a way in. That is why large organizations have computer security staff and consultants working 24/7/365 to protect their computer networks. Unless a hacker has some reason to make a personal attack on your home or SOHO (small office, home office) computer, you should not worry too much about a direct assault. Telecommuters are a special case because they are working at home but are also connected to their organization's network. If you are a telecommuter or thinking about becoming one, contact your computer security staff for advice. Note: Microsoft was reportedly hacked via a telecommuter's home computer.