Uploading on forums

[dreuby]

I've got a smartgroups group for members to share photos, and a friend has asked about security. As I can't get a sensible answer from Smartgroups, I'm hoping someone here can explain the technology to me.

Their file/graphics upload works just like these forums do when you want to upload a custom avatar - browse your hard drive, find the file, click upload.

How is the web site / message board doing this? My friend is concerned about his PCs security when doing this, as it's not using an FTP program on his computer. How is the site accessing his PC, and what security implications are there?

TIA,

[jamesglewisf]

That's beyond me, really. I'd just tell them not to do it if they are that concerned. It is unlikely that the smartgroups software is malicious.

[dreuby]

Thanks Jim - that's pretty much how I felt about it. But when friends ask, I feel obliged to at least look concerned!

BTW, Smartgroups answer was that all user names are visible to everyone. {rolleyes} At least you understood my question!