XP security

Hi,

Do you know how he actually gets onto the internet? Does he dial an ISP direct or get there through an office network?

If he dials the net, then yes... he is at risk of an attack. If his access is through an office network, then it dependson whether there is a firewall in that network.

Do you know whether he runs a virus checker on his laptop? If he doesn't, then he definitely should!

There are other configurations that can be made in XP to improve security. If you wanted them then post another question and we'll answer. The explanation of what to set and why is a bit involved.

All of the concerns you have above are valid... but the chances are that it wont happen unless someone *wants* to blackmail him.

As far as nasties, then yes. Generally viruses are the most common... Junk mail is all too common. We all get that!

Your boss should probably activate a password protected screen saver too. This means that after maybe 5 mins of being unattended/unused, the laptop will lock out the possibility of someone wandering by and looking...

Cheers,
Tim.

If he uses a dial-up connection, the risk is fairly low, as most (US based anyhow) ISPs do a fairly good job of blocking port attacks.

If he uses DSL or cable, the chance is MUCH greater.
If for no other reason, he has a static IP address. withdial-up, your IP address is usually different everytime you dial in.

Next, does he have XP Pro or Home?
If Pro, you might consider enableing the built in firewall.
I would recommend installing a 3rd party firewall instead.

Finally, either teach him to use the Windows Update feature, or schedule him to leave you the laptop once a week so that critical and security (along with anti-virus) updates are installed on a timely basis.

Chas

regardless of all other factors, he needs to do this:

1. set a password protected screen saver (5 min)
2. log on with user or power user rights, instead of administrator
3. if he uses Outlook2000 have him visit office.microsoft.com and run the security patches for it. go to tools options security, use restricted zone
4. enable his XP internet connection firewall