WD Drive Manager Status sends data to certain IP address and port?

WD External Drives WD Portable Drives
7

skeptical,

I’ve noticed the exact same problem with my new 1TB MyPassport SE Essential.  I don’t want to install the SmartWare, but I am very disturbed that the LED light continues blinking while I “safely” remove it from WinXP.   Know of any way to get an answer from WD on this?  If I’m risking damage to my drive by removing it in this fashion, I’d really like to know!