> (Though I would still argue the analogy is flawed there: port scanning Internet-facing servers is more like going up to each locked door on the street and wri

> (Though I would still argue the analogy is flawed there: port scanning Internet-facing servers is more like going up to each locked door on the street and writing down what kind of lock it has, in case you want to try to pick it later.) I disagree, there is no security mechanism in port numbers. It's just a door that opens for you or not. Checking whether a door opens for you does in no way imply that you're perhaps planning a crime.