Modem dials out by itself?

[Bluefront]

This computer is about six months old, with XP pro completely up-to date. The only software changes in the last couple of months....OS security updates, Virus scanner updates, and a new browser (Firefox).

None of the other computers on the LAN were running.....and this computer dials out, connects to the internet by itself. There was no indication what prog did this. I have all automatic updates turned off. In IE the connections are set to "never dial a connection". Zone alarm always warns me if anything wants to connect. I did a virus scan, and a spyware scan...nothing.

The Firefox setting is to "periodically check for updates".......could this have done it, bypassing Zone Alarm? If not what else should I look for? :|

 

[TGS]

Can you hit a security site, to see if they can do a full port scan against the box in question? If you have any vunerable ports, shut them down asap. Personally I would format and reload any box if I though it was compromised.

Now if it's a program that needs an internet connection to search for updates, will they (IE like firefox) automatically open up a connection?

 

[Bluefront]

Well since this has only happened one time I'm aware of, it may have been a fluke. Msconfig shows no unusual entries....and I also checked Firefox. It will not dial out even if you click update now...you have to be connected first to get the update to work.

I have three identical computers like this (MSI 651).....they have the same software. This one is the only one that ever dialed out by itself. I have a phone by every computer I use....a blue light turns on when the phone line is in use. So I would know instantly if a computer (that was on) in another room tried to dial.

If it happens again, I have an early image of the OS I can install (no programs on the image, just the OS). Thanks for any help......

Oh....when I checked Zone Alarm's log, the last entry was for Firefox......but the date was not the same as that of the mysterious dial-out. :?