We have implemented various security measures to provide our users with the best IRC environment possible. It is important that users also take certain steps to protect themselves on the Internet. The following page is dedicated to explaining what protection we provide, and what useful resources are available for users. If you have any further questions feel free to e-mail us on [email protected].

VirtualWorld, a first in IRC history, was implemented January 1998, to protect the identify of user's addresses. This was achieved by encrypting certain portions of a user's hostname or IP address. In doing so, it allowed the user to continue chatting without other users knowing their address, thus rendering 'attacks', 'hacks', 'nukes' and the like useless as they were unable to trace your connection. In May, 2001, we revised the VirtualWorld software and included further steps to ensure the secrecy of your IP address. For those users who do not require this service, we have built in the option of disabling VirtualWorld from your connection. To do so simply type:
   /mode <nickname> -v
You will receive a notice indicating you disabled this feature.
To enable VirtualWorld again, just type:
   /mode <nickname> +v
For more information, see the virtual world page.

Wingate is an application that allows your computer to become a gateway for others, typically used in a local area network (LAN) environment. Due to misconfiguration of this application, it is possible for other users to use a wingate server as a proxy or gateway for their own connections to IRC. As a result, they are then able to connect multiple times, from multiple gateways, generally with the intent of flooding or causing disruption to channels. As a result, we have implemented software that detects such open gateways upon connection of clients and will automatically ban and enforce the client off our network. As a result, all connections to the network will be subject to a port 1080 check. This test will result in a connection being established from our software to your computer to ensure you are not running an open wingate server.
Firewall application such as NukeNabber and Conseal Firewall will alert you upon your connection to AustNet, that an attempt has been made to connect to port 1080 on your computer. This is not a denial or service, or hack attempt on our behalf, this is simply a server ensuring your software is safe. If the results in your host being deemed insecure, you will be automatically banned and forwarded to a website that can assist you in securing your server. Please follow any of the links on the right for more information.

Viruses these days come in various forms, via email, via the web, and via the transfer of files. A channel called #AVA on AustNet aims to provide users with support in locating and removing viruses in both an IRC and console process. #AVA have a website to assist users. On the right of this page are links to websites that also attempt to aid you in the removal of viruses.

For more help on security, check the links on the right side of this page, or contact [email protected].

Links on how to properly configure a Wingate server:

www.deerfield.com
www.deerfield.com

Links on how to properly secure a SOCKS proxy server:

General help
Windows proxy help
sygate help
Linux Howto

Virus help sites:

AustNet #ava site

Online virus scanners:
Housecall
RAV antivirus
Tiscali antivirus scan
Panda Active scan

Other security sites

security focus
microsoft security