gave out my ip address in a im chat, what does that mean?

Question

In a im chat with a new computer tutor, I gave out my ip address,
dont know the implications, should I change my ip address on my computer now, and if so, how do I do this?
Is there a reason to worry? Does the ip address give him any unauthorized access?
running clamwin anti-virus..
use ms ie, just downloaded firefox.

Answer 1

Although I doubt its any use for someone to know your IP over IM , here's why:

Your IP is not static i.e. it will change sooner or later. Even if a person has your IP there is little they can do with your firewall active.
If you trust the person then there is no problem.

If you really need to change your IP here are the simple steps:
goto Start->Run
Type "Cmd" without quotes, Hit ENTER. This will bring up the command prompt.

Type the following commands one after the other:

ipconfig /release *Con* [ENTER]
ipconfig /renew *Con* [ENTER]

This will do the trick.

Answer 2

Everytime you send an email, you give out your IP. Most probably. your IP will change in a few weeks - these are called dynamic IPs and is what most ISPs issue. In any case, no damage will come to you if you have good firewall software (which is included in Windows XP).

I work with Internet Technologies and am familiar with the internal issues relating to this.

Answer 3

If he was any threat then he would of had your IP without you giving it to him. If you trust him then there is no reason to worry. Knowing the IP is only the first stage of "hacking" into a computer. It just tells the hacker where to find you. I doubt your in any risk.

Answer 4

Oh my. .......so many people, so paranoid...you are safe nothing can hurt you or your PC......... your IP goes out each time you logg onto a site..........remember it is just a computer

Answer 5

ye u shud cos sm1 can hack into ur computer and get all ur data so move kwikly...