Windows bug fixed by Microsoft

In its latest monthly patch release, Microsoft has patched a Windows bug that was deemed "critical" and has possibly been being exploited by cyber criminals.

The MS07-061 patch fixes an important flaw in Windows' Uniform Resource Identifier, which is involved in Windows' process for passing information between applications. Ben Greenbaum, a senior research manager at Symantec, told the Associated Press that the security flaw is "concerning". By taking advantage of the security flaw, cyber criminals could take over a victim's computer and steal crucial information such as passwords and financial information. Once infected, the victim's computer could also be used to disseminate spam.

This month unusually saw only two patches released, the other of which was deemed "important", the second-highest level of security rating for a patch. The second patch is for those with computers running the Windows 2000 Server and the Windows Server 2003.

Skype Blackout Fixed, Caused by Massive PC Restart

Skype Blackout Fixed, Caused by Massive PC Restart
By Clint Boulton
August 20, 2007

Microsoft Windows patches and millions of PC restarts cracked Skype

The blackout that left millions of Skype users without the ability to make Internet phone calls from their PCs for two days was, ironically, triggered by the service's users. Skype offers a P2P (peer-to-peer) VOIP (voice over IP) software service, which allows users to make phone calls, instant messages and videos over their computers with a broadband Internet connection. The service is free for users of the Skype network and is extremely popular, boasting more than 220 million users.

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Windows Updates Hijacked

Windows Updates Hijacked

Malware could be installed onto a PC in the security updates issued by Windows, experts have stated.

There is currently a program in circulation that is capable of hijacking Windows Update and installing malware that could leave a computer vulnerable to attack. The program works by bypassing a user's firewall and then downloading damaging files that then remain undetected.

A Microsoft spokesman stated: "Microsoft is aware of phttp://www.blogger.com/img/gl.link.gifublic reports that Background Intelligent Transfer Service (BITS) is being used by TrojanDownloader:Win32/Jowspry. "The bypass most commonly occurs after a successful social engineering attempt lures the user into inadvertently running [Jowspry], which then utilizes BITS to download additional malware."

Speaking to the BBC, security consultant Robert Schifreen said that the way to avoid infecting one's PC is to not click on any links or attachments unless one is sure that they are not infected. Meanwhile, management company Fortinet has joined the Microsoft Virus Information Alliance (VIA) to collaborate on monitoring the distribution of internet viruses.

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New Multimedia Phone Released

Verizon Wireless and Palm have announced the launch of a new phone, which includes Internet access and other features.

Customers with the Treo 700wx Smartphone will be able to use high-speed Internet connections at speeds comparable to broadband, along with a wireless email facility. The phone uses the Windows Mobile 5.0 platform to get online, while the increased RAM will allow people to download more content and applications. It is also compatible with memory cards, which will appeal to those who regularly access music, video and photo images.

Tim Roper, vice-president of Palm, commented: "People love the Treo smartphone because they are driven by the need to stay in touch and manage a variety of communications and information – both business and personal." He added that the features on the new version would be a "core asset" for mobile professionals wanting to be productive while on the move.

The phone is also able to be used with Bluetooth headsets, while it also contains a 1.3 mega pixel camera and touch screen.

"No one should be surprised that there is a convergence of technology to the cell phone," states Mark Weibel, EVP of Marketing for Broadband National, the industries leading comparative shopping website. "These new phones come enabled with wireless networking technology, instant messaging, picture messaging, digital photo sharing tools, ringtones, gaming, navigation and the ability to store thousands of MP3 files."

For more information on multimedia phones and other digital products and services visit www.broadbandnational.com