Block SSH script attacks

macosxhints – Modify Remote Login server to block scripted attacks
If you run a machine that is open to the public internet, and you open up SSH then you’ve seen these entries in your system logs.

eb 10 07:07:36 localhost sshd[1078]: Illegal user matt from 210.127.248.158
Feb 10 07:07:38 localhost sshd[1080]: Illegal user test from 210.127.248.158
Feb 10 07:07:40 sshd[1082]: Illegal user operator from 210.127.248.158
Feb 10 07:07:42 sshd[1084]: Illegal user wwwrun from 210.127.248.158
Feb 10 07:07:52 sshd[1096]: Illegal user apache from 210.127.248.158
Feb 10 07:07:59 sshd[1104]: Failed password for root from 210.127.248.158 port 58752 ssh2
Feb 10 07:08:01 sshd[1106]: Failed password for root from 210.127.248.158 port 59136 ssh2
Feb 10 07:08:03 sshd[1108]: Failed password for root from 210.127.248.158 port 59176 ssh2
Feb 10 07:08:15 sshd[1122]: Failed password for root from 210.127.248.158 port 60606 ssh2
….

Looks like someone is trying to break into your machine and you’d be right. It’s more than likely a script or robot just knocking on your door, but you never know. This article discusses some ways to lock down SSH and secure your remote connections.

Writing sensible email messages

43 Folders | Writing sensible email messages
Before you type anything into a new message, have explicit answers for two questions:

Why am I writing this?
What exactly do I want the result of this message to be?
If you can’t succinctly state these answers, you might want to hold off on sending your message until you can.

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Spyware & Adware Removal Tips

shacknews.com
So you have spyware huh? Well I’m here to tell you how to get rid of it. Now as time goes on and newer spyware comes out this guide may become obsolete. However I clean spyware daily and these tips below have never failed me.

OSx86 Project Guides hidden from Apple

A while back, Apple issued an order to have all the guides removed. The OSx86 Project team did removed the links and the Guides section on the menu. However they never really removed the guides. “Enjoy” them while you can.

read more | digg story

Linux Newbie Administrator Guide

The Linux Newbie Administrator Guide is “A complete reference for new Linux users who wish to set up and administer their own Linux home computer, workstation and/or their home or small office network.” Weening myself off WinTendo seemed nearly impossible until I found this jewel.

read more | digg story

Gmail Notifier for Mac OSX

Gmail Notifier for Mac OS X from Greg Miller of googleblog.blogspot.com.
Here is a little tool for you Mac based Gmail users.

The app is small and nonintrusive, but hopefully still has all the features a Mac user would want. With it you can:

- view messages without opening a browser
- open Gmail in your browser without forcing you to log in again
- make Gmail your default email program
- even more…

For those of you who don’t have a Gmail account yet go to gmail.com and get signed up. The new authentication process uses your cell phone to prove your a breathing human being… pretty slick. If you already have an account for one of Google’s other services and you use the same username/email address setting up Gmail then your Gmail account will take over as your identifier for those services… does that make any sense? Maube it’s just me.