Sudden upsurge in useage

[Lamb Chop]

:0 I have suddenly started using a hell of a lot more mb a day than I used to.

Started around 8.11 and I checked with my ISP and have a download of all useage since I went onto BB.

I note when I download big items like recent IE7 40Mb.

So as I havent gone anywhere or done anything more - why am i using more all the time.

I have checked and have no malware or spyware.

completely baffled.

I am also worried as I have gone onto new month on 12.11 and already up to 97MB.

Usually only use 125 mb a month see and only when I dl big item go higher and only once gone over my allowance of 250MB.

On dial up used to have 70MB and never went over then except for updates etc.

I know in Uk you lucky lot get 2GB on lowest from BT and others and 8MB

whilst we in Oz are limited to 1.5 gb and most options unless you on top end limit you to mb and then shape.

I dont get shaped, only want to know what is happening.

Not on wireless so no one can use my program can they?

Genuine call for help. :(

[-pops-]

I don't know what firewall you're using but there should be a report in it of what's going in and out.

[Lamb Chop]

I am using Zone Alarm Free edition.

Had a look at alerts - bt not switched on.

Have now switched on.

Asks what format - currently comma.

I did have this brainwave overnight.

Had installed tweakmaster to try to speed up and thought arh maybe - but did a speed test prior and after unintall, actually a bit fister after. So not the problem and I didnt download it until 12.11 and trouble started 8.11.

I am now getting alerts saying my firewall is blocking various ports as ppl trying to get in. Went to Zone Alarm site to read what it said, and said not to be too alarmed as may be just a remote computer doing something then of course went on to say buy the pro version. :D

I think this is why i swtich off alerts in the first place.

Thanks Pops for all your help. Hope you can think of something to help as this is driving me nuts, even dreaming of it seemingly :lol:

[Lamb Chop]

OK having tracked back to what I have downloaded and started off running on computer since I got this upsurge I found that it had started when I got Windows Defender.

Anyway, I will check and let you all know if I stop using heaps more daily than I did before.

[-pops-]

I am less than impressed with Widows Defender and would have no qualms about taking it out and just use the protection programs I am used to.

[Lamb Chop]

Uninstalling Windows Defender has made no difference to my higher use of MB at all.

Have used Superantispyware to see what is running on my computer - they found no adverse things to account for any thing happening. There were a couple of unrecognised items like a Anti Hijack Browser Retaliator, so submitted these files for their techs to identify and email me if any nasties indeed in them.

Does anything think it could be something at the telephone exchange?

Just had first alert from my DU meter will exceed my 250MB projected for end of month. I reset it when I started my new month on 12th Nov and have alread used over hapf my allowance.

For someone who only used around average of 125MB for last year and not doing any more than usual - this shure is a mystery.

[-pops-]

Can I suggest you submit a HiJack This scan to the experts? There is obviously something there that's doing something it shouldn't.

[cozofdeath]

With the ZA I have you can apply an internet lock when your not using the internet. You may have the same option if you right click on the ZA icon in your system tray. Another thing that has constantly helped me is when I see the internet LEDs flashing and I'm not doing anything I open the command prompt and type netstat to see who I'm connected to. If I need more info I use a program called cports to see what programs are using the ports and to shut the ports if I need to. Also, I think there is software somewhere that will monitor your usage and alert you when you get close to going over a limit. Also, some programs act as if they shutdown but still remain in the task manager and keep downloading, like p2p programs. You can leave a packet monitor on and that will detect any use and tell you everything.