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Internet Security

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Connecting your computer to the Internet can open doors to a variety of intrusions. There are many resources available for free or at a small charge that will protect your computer and enhance your surfing experience. We've compiled the following list of effective tools for information relating to Internet security.

In addition, there has been some misinformation in the press and on the street about Internet security in general and cable modem security in particular. We offer the following to help clear up questions or confusion about the risks and what to do about them.

Are cable modems more insecure than other forms of Internet access?

No. Cable modems were designed with security in mind. They protect customers just as well as other forms of Internet access including dial-up, ISDN, and ADSL.

Can I disconnect from TWC High Speed Online Service when I'm not using it?

The easiest way to disconnect from TWC High Speed Online Service is to simply turn off your computer when you're not using it. If you want to disconnect from the Internet and still be able to use your computer, the safest means is to disconnect the RJ 45 cable (the line between computer and modem) from the back of your computer. A third option is to disable the network connection assigned when you started using the Internet in this particular session.
Vista:
You must be signed in as Administrator
Click the Local Area Connection icon under LAN or High-Speed Connection.
Click Disable this network device in the Network Tasks frame to release your IP address.

Will cable modems let people "hack" my computer?

In order for a computer to be broken into via the Internet, it has to be running some kind of "server" software that allows it to respond to commands from other people on the Internet. The one exception is "file and print sharing" which can pose a security risk regardless of what form of Internet access you use. We cover this risk in detail later in this document.

A much bigger threat today stems from server software which you may run on your computer accidentally. Malicious programmers are starting to embed small "trojan horse" programs that may otherwise seem cute or useful but, when run, can enable hackers to access your computer. These programs are often distributed as shareware or as email attachments, usually sent by people who don't know they are sending something destructive. You should always be wary of opening or running any email attachment ending in ".exe".

Can other people see what I send and receive through a cable modem?

No. While cable modems use a shared data channel, the modems were designed to prevent anyone from intercepting data sent to or from a cable modem. First, our cable modems only deliver TCP/IP traffic. Other protocols, such as NetBEUI and AppleTalk, cannot be transmitted via cable modems. Second, our cable modems only deliver data targeted at the IP addresses of the computers connected to them. There is no way to "sniff" packets sent to or from other subscriber's computers. Third, all data to and from the cable modem is encrypted using 56-bit DES.

While we can't control whether data our customers send is intercepted after it enters the Internet, reputable websites usually take steps to protect sensitive information, such as credit card numbers, by using secure transactions that encrypt all data sent and received. This encryption provides additional security for cable modems and other forms of Internet access.

Can other people see what ís on my computer?

Only if you want them to. Modern operating systems were designed to put you in charge of your computer, including what you choose to share with other people. Using file and print sharing, it is possible to share certain files with certain people via a home LAN. In Microsoft Windows, the default configuration is not to also allow these files to be shared via the Internet if you have any kind of Internet connection. We always recommend using passwords to prevent unauthorized intrusion into your computer.

Windows Vista uses the Public folder, rather than the Shared Documents folder in Windows XP, to simplify file sharing. With Public folder sharing enabled, the public folders and all of the folders within the Public folder are automatically shared with the name Public. You do not have to configure file sharing on separate folders. You only have to either move or copy the file or folder you want to share on the network to the Public folder.

Windows Vista by default does not allow simple file sharing. Access to shared folders, including the public folder (if shared), requires a user name and password. Simple file sharing is enabled by default in Windows XP Home Edition.

For more information on file sharing in Vista click here.

Macintosh users that use file and print sharing are not subject to the same potential security problems and require no special setup. If you choose to use the Web sharing feature of the Mac OS, you should read the instructions carefully to ensure you are only sharing the files you want via the Internet.