External abuse is mushrooming. Know thy enemy. It often happens in the middle of the night or over the weekend. Hackers use computers with auto-dialing modems to break security passwords and gain access to your network through the phone system. Once in, they can steal data, crash your system, or use or resell your wide area services-leaving your company with the bill.
Hackers use various methods to access LANs.
By using a computer to break password codes, hackers can obtain entry in just minutes. Unfortunately, some companies make this process ridiculously simple for thieves by failing to take advantage of even minimal security features, such as password protection. Another method used to gain access is through remote diagnostic numbers used for telecom or computer administration. Sophisticated systems have features that allow service personnel to remotely diagnose problems. Unfortunately, this same capability can also let hackers in.