Computer Security

Are you on a local network or just the Internet?

Wireless LAN or not?

Is there any way I can find out if I have somebody else accessing my computer?

I don't think you can ever be 100% sure. Since your e-mail arrives via your service provider, it could be tampered with before it gets anywhere near your own system.

Do you have specific reason to think your system is hacked, or are you just curious to know the possibilities ? If you are using a wireless connection, somebody may be 'piggy-backing' your connection - is that the question/concern ?

Since you live in the land of excess, call The Man. They usually get $70.00-$100.00/hour, but it could be worth it.

Regards.

A Ga for a good reply.

I will add that double click Modem or Wireless connection in System-Tray & the connection status will come-up.

See the data changing under 'Sent'

Coincident to your question and before any speculation can be put forth some rather specific information needs be forth coming from you naviero 1.

1. What make and model number of the computer and which operating system is on the computer...

2. What type internet connection and or network is in use...

3. What level of internet security has been in use and when was it last updated an are scans automatically configured? How many anti-virus and spyware programs are in use?

$. What type conditions are occurring that caused you to consider requesting information of us?

6. If your interest is primarily to ascertain if your computer could be accessed by an unscrupulous type try ShieldsUp the free program will perform a port scan with the intent and with your permission to gain access to your computer.

google "intrusion detection for PC" and shop for the app that you feel is most appropriate for you. some are free, too.

I had issues like this but never knew what was going till I bought my new router. If you want what I consider to be a top notch one that isn't incredibly expensive i would recommend the D-Link DLG-4500 gaming router. It has a built in firewall and configures itself for the most part but is highly customizable for whatever you want it to do. Is has a log that you can look at and see what kind of traffic that you are getting.

It's what I have been using for the last 6 months and We have run up to 6 computers on it while gaming and browsing facebook. Its is a worthwhile investment as far as I am concerned.

I was recommending D-link almost exclusively but have started using Netgear Pro-safe series and I'll never go back. The dual VPN an it's so much simpler and high thru-put isn't any trouble for gaming or downloading HD shows etc.. But a good one will bring a Franklin.

If some one is accessing your computer they will probably do it in a stealthy manner. More important is preventive steps. Do you have a software firewall like Zone Alarm? Antivirus, Spyware programs. If you want to get exotic use a hardware firewall in front of a software firewall. But if you have the basic programs I have mentioned you are pretty safe but nothing is 100% so backup your computer. I like Norton Ghost it is full backup including all your settings, everything.

Hardware firewall is to keep junk out, Anti-virus and anti spyware is to control junk you let in, software firewall is to keep junk from phoning home or generating spam.

Look into and get installed on your puter a firewall, antivirus, anti spyware (several brands) Trojan horse protection etc.