[Ben_uk]

Linux live CD's are a great tool for recovering data from a broken system but they can obviously be used maliciously too. I'm currently running ubuntu 7.10, does anyone have any suggestions as to how to protect data from this sort of access?

Thanks
Ben

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Yes, that's certainly an interesting situation. Short of using some form of encryption, by disk, by folder, by file, I don't think there is really anything you can do. If you do it by folder or file you could still use Linux to save the files but not to open them.

[Tyger]

Yes, that's certainly an interesting situation. Short of using some form of encryption, by disk, by folder, by file, I don't think there is really anything you can do. If you do it by folder or file you could still use Linux to save the files but not to open them.

[fleamailman]

I agree with tyger but would add two simple steps, not to store indiscreet or secret stuff on your computer, and hide your identity, that is don't leave things you don't want people to find on the computer, and avoid using the real names, real addresses, etc. for example if your name is really Fred Blogs don't use an email address [email protected] or if your work demands having your real name used then only see mails on site(not downloading them to your computer with outlook express like linux apps), another example, if a site demand personal details that you feel they have no right to know, create a dummy self but remember that dummy self to reuse if and when one is reasked

it is safe to say that linux is malware free because it is hard for malware makers to hide malware in an open system, and also because one normally does not run one's distro as administrator(root) but, and just being realistic form history of theft, passwords shouldn't be thought of as a block to someone with endless time and patience,

lastly, remember that with linux one can use a live CD storing to USB key thus bypassing the computer's hard drive altogether, or same thing boot to a USB key running linux

hope this helps

Edited by fleamailman, 09 March 2008 - 12:14 PM.

[shard92]

Two other ideas to avoid live cd access of files... One bios password on boot ( though this can still be defeated with proper technical knowledge ) and lock your computer in a room only you have a key for... or as said above.... don't have anything on your machine or use encryption.... maybe even going so far as getting a via computer with via encryption software.