Problem summary
- An internet connection may contain unexplained usage on the stats page.
- There are a number of causes of unwanted traffic as explained below.
Causes
Network Chatter
- Up to 10mb per day of random packets caused by portscans, DNS, router update checks, remote pings etc.
- This will occur even if your PCs are switched off if you have a router as opposed to a USB based ADSL modem.
Skype
- New Skype client generates traffic even if not in use.
- This is because Skype can turn any PC into a 3rd party router for assisting in its P2P telephony functioning.
Stolen Username
- There are known hackers actively scanning insecure routers to obtain usernames and passwords.
- These details are then used to steal bandwidth from the account.
- This can be avoided by using DSL Secure.
Wireless Hijacking
- If your router is wireless-enabled, hackers in the nearby vicinity may be using your bandwidth for their own purposes, even if WEP or WPA is enabled.
Spyware, Malware, Viruses, Trojans, Rootkits
- Any of the PCs connected may be infected with the above causing your machine to become a zombie for sending spam or an instrument in sending a denial of service attacks.
- New evidence suggests rootkit technology is now being employed to avoid detection by most antivirus programs.
Solutions
Network chatter
- Turn off your router to avoid any traffic charges.
- Alternatively, put the router in “stealth mode” – this makes it appear to be offline to the outside world and reduces the small amount of daily wastage.
Skype
- Log out of Skype when not in use.
- Use a different client e.g. MSN Messenger or other SIP-based voice services.
Stolen Username
- Change all passwords – ADSL password, router password, Customer Zone password etc.
- Enable Webafrica’s DSL Secure technology – this allows you to lock your account to your own physical ADSL line preventing it from being used elsewhere.
- This can be found at http://dsl.webafrica.co.za/ or by clicking the Manage button on your account in the Customer Zone.
Wireless Hijacking
- Enable WPA-PSK encryption using a 12+ character random password.
- Do not use known words, product names, labels or anything else.
- Do not use WEP encryption as this can be cracked within minutes giving a false sense of security.
Spyware, Malware, Viruses, Trojans, Rootkits
- Run multiple viruses and anti-spyware scans on your system, there are various tools available to do this via the web:
- Trendmicro Housecall
- Panda Active Scan
TIPS:
There are also various tools available to track traffic usage on individual PCs, the easiest to use is probably Netlimiter:
• NetLimiter
Please also see the password guidelines to ensure the passwords you have selected are adequately secure:
• Password guide
Please note: All Webafrica deals and packages are subject to change without notification. These include our terms and conditions as it relates to costs and deal/package structures for all of our service providers.