Not encrypted pguard.dat

Isn't the pguard.dat file not being encrypted pose a security risk?
An attacker could just get that file, examine the protected files and their settings and find a vulnerabillity.
Sorry if I said something stupid, but this is hardly my field.

 

I was able to view the pguard.dat file whilst not protected by PG. I suppose this would pose a security risk if PG was not protecting. However whilst under protection, pguard.dat was unable to be opened in a text editor or hex editor. Nor was I able to copy the file to another directory to view it as its not in use. I kept getting parameter missing error messages. I believe PG uses this as a form of protection, if your system is protected, you cannot access pguard.dat, nor would a trojan or other malware be able to either

 

Ohh... So that's why explorer.exe crashed everytime I right clicked on that file!

 

Encryption isn't necessary - while Process Guard is active (which is virtually always for most users), pguard.dat is inaccessible to other programs.

 

I am not sure but just ask : how about if a box is shared by some people, assumed that I am the one have access to PG with passwords, others can boot the box in safemode (pg not loaded ?) then they can manipulate that file? Is that wrong?
TIA

 

I believe you may be correct but only if they have Administrative rights.

 

And only if you have not LOCKED PG