Rogue dialler software launched
| Rogue dialler software launched | |
06 June 2005
If you are a dial up user or have broadband but use an internal modem for voice or fax calls, point your browser at http://www.btmodemprotection.com/ to get your hands on the application. (Online registration is required before the download can be completed.) What BT has come up with in BT Modem Protection is not a cure, more an early warning system. It won’t prevent rogue diallers being downloaded and doesn’t prevent modems dialling premium rate or international numbers. What it does is alert users when a modem dials out on a number not included in a predetermined list of approved numbers. The user then has to take action to curtail the rogue dialler. Explains BT: “By monitoring dial-up connections our software will alert you anytime your computer attempts to dial a premium rate, international or non-approved number. The software is for information purposes only, it will alert you to the fact you are dialing a premium rate number, it will not stop the call, it is your responsibility to cease the call if necessary by disconnecting. If in any doubt you should unplug your modem and check your settings before attempting to redial.” Once downloaded, installed and configured, BT Modem Protection runs invisibly in the background each time the computer boots up. It monitors modem activity and immediately flashes an on screen warning when the modem dials an unauthorised number. A display window will warn, "You are attempting to dial a premium rate, international or non-approved number. If you do not want to proceed with this call hang up. If in any doubt you should unplug your modem and check your settings before attempting to redial." Although more usually associated with 56k dial up connections, rogue dialers can also affect broadband users if they leave their old dial up modem connected. BT advise broadband users: “You won't be affected as long as you've disconnected the modem from your phone socket and don't use this modem to make fax or voice calls.” With BT Modem Protection not being a comprehensive solution, further emphasis is added to keeping anti-virus software up to date and disks scanned regularly by anti-virus and anti-spyware. And don’t forget to keep on top of system patches and updates and ensure your firewall is switched on. Prevention is infinitely better – and cheaper - than cure. * BT Modem Protection supports the following operating systems:
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