Hamachi: Are there security concerns?

[HoratioDrank]

I am very new to Fantasy Grounds. In fact, I'll be playing in my very first FG session this coming Sunday. The GM has indicated that he is using Hamachi due to security issues on his end related to where he plays from.

Would someone be able to offer a ten-cent version of what Hamachi is doing? Is it safe to use? Could an ill-intentioned 3rd party use the Hamachi connection to access my computer in ways I don't want or intend?

Thanks in advance for any information.

CNYGamer99

[villadelfia]

Hamachi creates a virtual LAN, in essence it's as if you were in the same building connected to the same router.

It's no more risky than just being connected to the internet already is.

One thing you do need to be careful about is that if you commonly use virtual machines, the virtual network adapter installed by Hamachi may interfere.

You should inquire what your gm means by security issues on his end, because that sound kind of paranoid to me, but in essence there's nothing wrong with using Hamachi for this.

[damned]

Hamachi does increase your security risk.

As villadelfia says it creates a Virtual LAN between all members on that Hamachi network (eg the 5 of you or whatever that number is)

What should you do to make your hamachi network secure?
You should leave your windows firewall ON and make sure you allow TCP1802 in
As a player you dont need to allow TCP1802 in and you should also keep your Windows Firewall on
You should not stay connected to Hamachi when you are not playing
You should have a complex password for Hamachi
You should change the Hamachi password when a player leaves

These are all very easy steps to do and should keep you all safe whilst on Hamachi.

[HoratioDrank]

Okay, that is useful information. Basically, as a player if I download the most current version of the free version of Hamachi, and only run it while I'm playing the game, and keep my Windows firewall on, is it fair to say my risk is minimal?

[damned]

Okay, that is useful information. Basically, as a player if I download the most current version of the free version of Hamachi, and only run it while I'm playing the game, and keep my Windows firewall on, is it fair to say my risk is minimal?

Yes. As a player and a GM. Keep your Windows (or other) Firewall on and disconnect from Hamachi when done and your risk is minimal.
Even when connected to Hamachi your risk is only from the other players on that network but it is possible over time that you could end up on multiple networks so only connect to the one you need when you need it.