Expert: Doug Woodall - 6/8/2008

Question
Hello,   
I was watching a fictional tv show and they said that if a person has your IP address they can remotely access the files on your computer. Hearing this made me quite nervous. I wondered if this is actually true. I have cable company internet access.   

Also, if true, what can one do to prevent others from getting your IP address? And how can you stop them from accessing your files?

Answer
Hello Kee,
Remote access depends on many things. How secure your computer is. Firewall, AntiVirus, AntiSpyware, MS updates, and if you have any Applications that have security problems that can be used to subvert your system.
Most reputable hosting services have protections in place to protect their customers from attacks. Otherwise they would lose alot of customers.
There are programs you can use to mask your IP from most services, but its never 100%.

My Advice, keep your computer updated, and use good protection. Practice good surfing habits, you'll be ok.

Hope this helps.