What do you look for when doing security check?

[jsmith773]

Many retail stores offer something called Security Check. What do they look for and what is the procedure to secure the system.

Outside of making sure client has AV software and Spyware Software and firewall what is there to look for.

I usually make sure that file sharing is not on. What do you guys look for?

[gunslinger]

I look for spyware/adware/malware/viruses, I also look for running processes that do not belong, and background software that does not need to run. I also check for open ports and make sure they have all the latest Windows updates, and that their antivirus is up to date.

[ataylor]

A number of things. Firstly, check for anti-virus/adware (using alternative programs to the ones the user has installed, if any). Test the firewall using Shelds Up!. If the user is fairly competent, I would suggest installing Comodo Firewall if Windows Firewall is all they have (or replacing Zonealarm with Comodo). Check through their startup list (programs and services) for anything unusual. Make sure that all of their programs are up to date (doable all in one go using AppUpdater). Run Microsoft Baseline Security Analyzer (and possibly Malicious Software Remover). Check BIOS bootup sequence and move HD to the top. Set a BIOS password. Suggest change of Windows password if it is weak.

Thats the things I would do off the top of my head..