Technology Vault - NewsBytes

Friday 31 May, 2002

16 million homes can now have ADSL by @ 5:43 pm

Unhappy TiVo owners by @ 6:19 am

Updated Version of Microsoft Jet 4.0 by @ 5:54 am

Thursday 30 May, 2002

Latest virus news from Symantec by @ 10:05 pm

Denial of service in Exchange 2000 – by bluetracker @ 8:31 pm

Microsoft has today warned of a vulnerability in Exchange 2000, which could allow an attacker to launch a denial of service attack on the mail server, using a malformed message.

Microsoft has also released the patch to fix this vulnerability HERE


And the bulletin can be seen in full HERE

The vulnerability lies in the way that Exchange 2000 handles certain
malformed messages. Instead of immediately rejecting the message, Exchange attempts to process it and causes the Store service to use 100% of the CPU capacity. While the Store process is performed in the Exchange server no other task can be carried out, resulting in a denial of service.

Unlike other denial of service attacks, restarting the service or switching off and restarting the server does not solve the problem, as when Exchange is restarted, the process of storing the malformed message continues.
For this reason, after an attack of this kind, it would be necessary to wait for this process to finish before Exchange could continue working as normal.

According to the bulletin,in order to launch an attack, the message would have to be sent through a direct connection to the Exchange 2000 server, as the vulnerability cannot be exploited from a standard mail client such as Outlook.

Sony bridges advanced performance with lifestyle convenience in new integrated digital a/v receivers by bluetracker @ 7:34 pm

Ad-Aware update and new reference file by @ 3:54 pm

Boy died playing Diablo II by @ 3:34 pm

Say 'Goodbye' to Netscape Online by bluetracker @ 11:59 am

What future has Regional TV? by @ 11:22 am

New E-Minister by @ 7:07 am

Stephen Timms

MSN Communities name change by @ 6:48 am

Wednesday 29 May, 2002

New NTL Channels by @ 9:43 pm

Spider-B by @ 9:15 pm

NVIDIA Quadro4 500 Go by @ 9:00 pm

today Nvidia announced that Fujitsu Siemens Computers, the leading European computing company, will feature the NVIDIA Quadro4® 500 Go GL Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) in its forthcoming CELSIUS® Mobile H workstation. Based on a 1.7GHz Intel® Mobile Pentium® 4 processor, the CELSIUS Mobile H also includes a 15.1-inch TFT-UXGA display, five-channel Dolby® Digital surround sound, enhanced security and connectivity, and a unique modular design for easy expansion and user customization.

Leveraging NVIDIA’s robust Quadro4 XGL series of professional 3D graphics solutions, the Quadro4 500 Go GL GPU delivers a high-performance, innovative solution for engineers, animators and other professionals looking for workstation-class graphics on a mobile platform. No other mobile graphics solution provides a full complement of desktop workstation features, including hardware-accelerated antialiased lines, OpenGL® hardware overlay planes, two-sided lighting and more, as well as industry-leading performance on a mobile platform.

“NVIDIA revolutionized the workstation graphics market last year with the Quadro2 Go, a mobile GPU powerful enough for industry-grade 3D business applications,” said Alain Tiquet, marketing director EMEA for NVIDIA. “With the inclusion of Quadro4 500 Go GL graphics in its CELSIUS mobile workstation, Fujitsu Siemens Computers is not only offering state-of-the-art graphics power, it is also offering a range of other mobile innovations including NVIDIA’s unique power optimization system and award-winning multi-monitor support.”

“Our customers are high-end graphics users and they need high-end, uncompromising graphics performance, not just from their desktops but on a mobile platform that enables them to give full multimedia presentations or to simply take their work with them wherever they go,” said Dr. Andreas Thimmel, vice president of the Product Division Business PC at Fujitsu Siemens Computers. “NVIDIA’s Quadro4 500 Go GL chip has been designed with our customers’ needs in mind and for this reason, we are proud to bring the second generation of CELSIUS Mobile H system to market utilizing this technology.”

Combined with NVIDIA’s workstation software architecture, professional application certifications (including Ansys®, AutoCAD®, CATIA®, Maya®, 3ds max™ , Pro/ENGINEER®, SOFTIMAGE®, and Unigraphics®) and NVIDIA’s PowerMizer™ power saving technology, the Quadro4 500 Go GL GPU delivers uncompromising productivity for workstation users on the go. In addition, NVIDIA’s second-generation Lightspeed Memory Architecture (LMA) II allows for exceptional memory performance, while its nView™ technology enables CELSIUS Mobile H users to take advantage of high-quality, multi-display configurations. Like all members of the Quadro4 family, the Quadro4 500 Go GL GPU utilises NVIDIA’s patented Unified Driver Architecture™ (UDA), as well as its custom application drivers. NVIDIA’s UDA provides a single driver for all of its products for forward and backward, top to bottom compatibility, and ease of installation and manageability.

The CELSIUS Mobile H system is expected to be available from Fujitsu Siemens Computers in June 2002.

For more information about the CELSIUS Mobile H system, please see
Fujitsu-Siemens.

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AVG Update by @ 8:39 pm

Grisoft has an update for their free Antivirus software AVG.

If you have the Outlook Express plug-in, you should read the following message at the bottom of your emails.

This email is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.368 / Virus Database: 204 - Release Date: 29/05/2002

Grisoft says that this update No.638 added detection of new virus JS/SQLSpida.

File size: 1921.4Kbytes.

Many thanks to Slarty and vfr for telling Newsbytes about this update.

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Intel uncover ‘next generation’ processor by bluetracker @ 12:45 pm

At the INTEL DEVELOPER FORUM, MUNICH, Germany, today - Intel Corporation revealed in the following Press article, performance estimates for its forthcoming Intel® Itanium® 2 processor that address the most demanding aspects of enterprise computing. With higher data speeds and micro architectural enhancements, servers and workstations based on the Itanium 2 processor are expected to deliver up to 1.5 to twice the performance of today's Itanium-based systems, significantly extending the product line's performance over RISC-based systems on key enterprise-class applications.
Seen by many as the reply to rival AMD’s new Opteron processor, the Itanium 2 has been in the pipeline for some months now. It is understood that this new processor is aimed mainly at server applications and businesses. For the 'techies' among you , here is the full text of the release.........


"With Itanium 2-based systems, Intel will deliver on the promise of the Itanium architecture with industry-leading performance on a broad range of demanding enterprise computing and technical applications," said Mike Fister, senior vice president and general manager for Intel's Enterprise Platforms Group. "As system availability begins mid-year and grows throughout 2002, IT and line of business users will be able to deploy high-performance, standards-based technology for their most data-intensive, business-critical applications."
The Itanium 2 processor, formerly code-named "McKinley," will be the second in a family of enterprise-class processors from Intel that brings the performance and volume economics of the Intel Architecture to the most demanding segments of computing. The Itanium processor family enables a broad choice of reliable and scalable platforms and software for high-end servers and workstations at significantly lower costs and greater performance than proprietary offerings.
Based on tests of Itanium 2-based prototype systems, Intel projects that the Itanium 2 processor will deliver outstanding performance on the following applications:
· Enterprise resource planning: Intel projects that a four-processor Itanium 2-based system will support more than twice the number of sales and distribution transactions as a comparable Itanium-based system.
· Large database and transaction processing: Intel estimates that a four-processor Itanium 2-based system will support about 50 percent more transactions per minute than a comparable Sun UltraSparc* III system.
· Secure e-Commerce: Testing by Coradiant* Research, a performance management consulting group, revealed that a prototype two-processor Itanium 2-based server performed 1440 secure transactions per second, or 720 transactions per processor, on the RSA SSL-C benchmark. In contrast, a four-processor Itanium-based system performed 1376 transactions per second, or 344 transactions per processor, and an eight-processor UltraSparc III system performed 552 transactions per second, or 69 transactions per processor - less than one tenth the performance, per processor, of the Itanium 2-based server.
· High-performance scientific and technical computing: On the MP Linpack* 10K benchmark, four-processor Itanium 2-based systems are expected to achieve supercomputing-class performance of more than 13 gigaflops (billion floating-point operations per second), almost doubling the performance of a comparable UltraSparc III system.
· Mechanical computer-aided design: For MSC.Nastran*, Intel anticipates that a single-processor Itanium 2-based system will perform 90 percent higher than a comparable Itanium-based system and two to four times as fast as a comparable UltraSparc III system.
Intel also expects the Itanium 2 processor to deliver exceptional processor and system performance:
· Memory bandwidth: Single-processor Itanium 2-based systems using the Intel E8870 chipset are expected to deliver 3.7 GB/s on the Stream* benchmark, which is more than 2.5 times that of a comparable Itanium-based system and more than four times the performance of a comparable UltraSparc III system at 0.891 GB/s.
· Floating point: On the SPECfp2000* benchmark, single-processor Itanium2-based systems are expected to achieve industry-leading performance with a base result of 1350, almost doubling the base result of 701 on comparable UltraSparc III and Itanium-based systems.
· Integer: Intel estimates that on the SPECint2000* benchmark, single-processor Itanium 2-based systems will have a base result of 700 or higher, approximately 30 percent better than a comparable UltraSparc III system.
The Intel Itanium 2 processor's outstanding performance is achieved through microarchitectural enhancements - including 3 MB of on-die level 3 (L3) cache and additional execution units and issue ports - and improved data speeds, including a three-fold increase in system bus bandwidth, 1GHz frequency and improved cache latencies. The Itanium architecture also maintains generation-to-generation software compatibility, enabling software compiled for the Itanium processor to run on the Itanium 2 processor with significant performance increases.
Information about enterprise performance and benchmarks, can be found HERE

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Tuesday 28 May, 2002

Vunerability found in versions 6.01 and 6.02 of Opera by bluetracker @ 11:30 pm

Panda Software via the Oxygen newsletter has just released this bulletin.


May 28 2002 -- SecuriTeam has reported -at securiteam.com - that versions 6.01 and 6.02 of the Opera browser are affected by a vulnerability that could allow an intruder to read files on the hard disk of an affected system.

As with all browsers today, Opera supports the "input type="file"" element, which is a standard method for uploading files to servers. As this is a very security-sensitive element, most web browsers do not allow its "value" attribute to be previously set (read only). If it was possible to assign an arbitrary string to the "value" attribute, an attacking server could fetch any local file by simply submitting a form (through scripting or social engineering, if scripting has been disabled).

Opera's approach to the file element is a little different. The "value" attribute can be set, but before the form it resides in is submitted, a dialog comes up with the following warning: "The files listed below have been selected, without your intervention, to be sent to another computer. Do you want to send these files?" However, in versions 6.01 and 6.02 of Opera it is possible to by pass the confirmation dialog box, and so an attacker could obtain the files they wanted from the user without their knowledge.


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Samsung 512Mbit DDR-II memory chip by @ 10:26 pm

Samsung announced today the first ever 512Mbit DDR-II memory chip. The memory chip can transfer data at 533Mbps but that can be pushed up to 666Mbps for some enviroments.

OK, now for the technical stuff. Samsung tells us:

The 512Mb Double-Data-Rate-II (DDR-II) SDRAMs are high-speed CMOS 512Mb Double Data Rate II Synchronous DRAM devices. The 512Mb chip is organized as either 32Mbit x 4 I/O x 4 banks or 16Mbit x 8 I/O x 4banks or 8Mbit x 16I/O x 4 banks device. This synchronous device achieve high speed double-data-rate transfer rates of up to 533Mb/sec/pin (DDR533) for general applications.
The chip is designed to comply with the following key DDR-II DRAM features: (1) posted CAS with additive latency, (2) write latency = read latency -1 , (3) Off-Chip Driver(OCD) impedance adjustment, (4) On Die Termination.
All of the control and address inputs are synchronized with a pair of externally supplied differential clocks. Inputs are latched at the cross point of differential clocks (CK rising and CK falling). All I/Os are synchronized with DQS in a source synchronous fashion. A fourteen bit address bus is used to convey row, column, and bank address information in a RAS/CAS multiplexing style. For example, 512Mb(x4) device receive 14/11/2 addressing.
The 512Mb DDR-II devices operate with a single 1.8V¡¾0.1V power supply and 1.8V ¡¾ 0.1V VDDQ. The 512Mb DDR-II devices are available in 60ball FBGAs(x4/8) and available in 84ball FBGAs(x16). Auto Refresh (CBR) and Self Refresh operations of 8192refresh cycles per 64ms are supported. (Refresh Period 7.8us)

Note: The functionality described and the timing specifications included in this data sheet are for the DLL Enabled mode of operation.

What this all means in English is that this chip is now a real competitor against RDRAM. Samsung says that DDR-II memory will go into volume production in the third quarter of 2003.


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Handspring treo 270 by @ 9:53 pm

Handspring has added a colour screen to its range of Treo handheld computers. This tiny computer is no bigger than a pack of cards. But Handspring says "But don't let its small size fool you. It's jam-packed with powerful features that never compromise functionality or ease of use".



It has a full colour screen which makes things much easier to read. It has a natty rocker switch which makes navigation a sinch and the keyboard is backlite, so you can use it in the dark.

Now to the mobile phone end of things, it has a Dual-band GSM 900-1800 phone which has speed dial, three way calling and call history. They include a ton of extra features, like full integration with the built-in PhoneBook, a personal speakerphone and free headset for hands-free operations, a backlit keyboard for evening calling, and so much more.

It's a powerful Palm OS organiser with 16 MB of memory and a blazing processor. It has Date Book Plus, PhoneBook (an improved Address Book), To Do List, Memo Pad, and more. Plus, you can install thousands of other colour-enabled Palm OS applications, including games, photo viewers, document editors and much more. Already have another Palm OS device? No worries. It's a breeze to transfer your existing data to your new Treo 270 communicator.

Send and receive SMS and email. And do it all wirelessly.

You can access the web from almost anywhere in full colour. Every Treo 270 communicator comes with Blazer™. Blazer™ is an award-winning wireless web browser, so you can surf virtually any web site, not just those sites optimised for mobile access.

To take a look for yourself at this amazing product CLICK HERE

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WinXP SP1 by @ 5:14 am

Paul Thurrott takes a look at WindowsXP Service Pack 1 Beta on his website Super Site for Windows.

Paul tells visitors, "It's not your average service pack. In a meeting with Windows XP Lead Product Manager Greg Sullivan the week of May 20, 2002, I got the low-down on Windows XP Service Pack (SP1), an important upgrade to Microsoft's fastest selling operating system of all time".

On Paul's site he covers all the new things that the service pack will include. He says:

Windows XP Service Pack 1 (SP1) consists of three main areas:

Enhanced security, reliability and Compatibility - Post-RTM Security fixes and hot-fixes, compatibility updates, and a new Messenger version.

New capabilities - USB 2.0 support, optional .NET Framework, enabling technologies for new devices such as Tablet PCs, "Freestyle" PCs, and "Mira" display hardware.

Consent decree compliance - New UI components, including Configure Program Defaults.

To read the full review, pop along to Winsupersite.com

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Monday 27 May, 2002

England World Cup Gifts by @ 10:23 pm

PersonalPrint.com has told Newsbytes about a special service they are offering customers. You can now Click 'n' Create your own exclusive England World Cup products at our new site. This service will only be available for a short time.

PersonalPrint says: Get ready for the biggest event in football and cheer your team!!

A range of product are available from mousemats, mugs, Kids and Adults T-shirts. Select from a range of 18 images including your favourite players, pick the item you wish to have and click on the buy it button.

Mugs are £7 each, Mousemats are £8 and T-shirts range from £12-£18. Prices include VAT and delivery.

We don't advertise goods here at Newsbytes, but this is a special one off for a limited time only from PersonalPrint and we thought you just might want to celibrate our win (if we do that is)!

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Klez-H is the worst by @ 10:01 pm

MessageLabs announced today that the Klez-H virus is the worst virus ever. It has even overtaken Sircam which now sits in third position. Klez.E takes second place.

MessageLabs has blocked 775,000 copies of the virus since it started.

The virus is found in 1/300 of every email scanned by MessageLabs. The Klez.H virus is able to change it's name from random names in address books. This is one of the reasons this virus has hit so hard.

MessageLabs provides a free information service. VirusEye also publishes a quarterly report and provides an e-mail notification service in the event of a new outbreak. If you wish to be kept informed about the latest outbreaks, then visit the MessageLabs website and register with them.

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V21 Authentication Problems by @ 11:10 am

First off, I must appologise for changing the logo on the teaser story. I just got fed up with seeing the original one.

The problems that V21 dial-up customers have endured over the weekend seem to have finally come to an end. V21 confirms that the service is now back to normal.

V21 have posted the follow message on their service status page:

The problems that V21 dial-up customers have endured over the weekend seem to have finally come to an end. V21 confirms that the service is now back to normal.

For the sake of V21 and their customers, I really hope that BT have sorted the problem out once and for all.

Top marks to V21 who kept customers informed throughout the difficulties via their service status page. Many ISP's could take a tip from V21 about keeping customers informed and in turn, keep customers happy.

nuff said! :-)

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What to do with a 419 by @ 10:54 am

Over the weekend, Newsbytes ran the story about a new version of the Nigerian email scam (known as the 419 scam). Well, The Register has come up with an interesting way to deal with these emails. The idea was sent in by one of their readers and happens to be the official advice from the High Tech Crime Unit and the Nigerian Government. They suggest, if we would like to do something about the situation, rather than just sticking them in the 'Delete bin', we should send them off to abuse @ (senders ISP address).

That way, their email accounts will be closed. OK, they can easily set up a new email account, but if people kept doing this, they would soon get fed up.

The register quotes a comment from Rik Kershaw-Moore, who's Information Security Administrator at Avon and Somerset Constabulary in which he says:

The current advice from people like the High Tech Crime Unit and the Nigerian Government is when you get one of those 4-1-9 scam emails, simply forward it to the abuse @ address of the ISP involved. The idea here is, and personally I think it is a non-starter, that the Nigerian scammers will eventually get sick of having their accounts closed down and move elsewhere.

Yes, that is true. The Register agrees, people prepared to kidnap people and extort money from their families are unlikely to be dettered by a slap on the wrist from their ISP's.

It's an interesting read and The Register have a sellection of sites to visit if you can really find the time to be bothered with these scam emails.

To read the full story, visit The Register

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E3 2002 coverage by @ 9:46 am

NVNews sister site Envy News has a stunning feature covering this years E3 with 5 pages packed with photographs taken at the show.

The feature covers Eric T Cheng's second year visit. He has bough back a stunning array of photographs to look at.



The photo section is split into groups, PC/Console Games, Booth Babes, Hardware, and Miscellaneous.

I particularly enjoyed the shots of the booth babes. Seems that the fashion for 'HOT PANTS' is back in vouge but this time round in shiny plastic or rubber wear! brrh! I'd love to add a few of the photos here but unfortunately they are all copyright, so you'll just have to visit the site yourselves.



Back again to read some more..... Good:-)

E3 is about hardware, graphics and gaming, but you'd hardly notice that from some of the shots.

Envy adds:
Worth mentioning is that Exhibitors showed both Console and PC games. The console games showed were for the Microsoft X-Box, Sony's Playstation 2, and Nintendo's GameCube.

Well done Envy, Great pictures and quickly uploaded. Well worth a look at folks!!

To start your tour CLICK HERE

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V21 down yet again - Updated story by @ 5:18 am

Newsbytes reported over the weekend that V21 customers were unable to connect to the internet for almost 24 hours due to a failure with a BT firewall.

Well, the blight stricken V21 customers seem to be unable to connect again. They say that the service fell apart again at 2.45am this morning.

No official status message has yet been posted by V21 (who don't seem to get up until 8am usually) but Newsbytes will bring you the latest news as we hear it.

As a reminder, V21 customers can use the Pay-as-you-go service number 0845 120 7961.

We'll keep you posted!

###### Update ######

V21 have now posted the following message on their service status page.

As of 3.30am the Firewall in the BT server farm that has caused problems over the weeekend has once again failed, BT engineers will be on site very shortly. We will update as soon as we no more information.

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Email Scam by @ 4:30 am

A new email scam is doing the rounds. It's a variant of the Nigerian email fraud.

This time you get an email that is from a US Commando in Afghanistan asking recipients for help to get terrorist drug money out of the country and appeals for bank details to be revealed.

No doubt if you were to respond the outcome would be simular to the Nigerian email.

It's estimated that around 2,600 people (mostly Americans) have responded to the Nigerian variant. Two have reported loosing around £50,000.

Newsbytes suggests that if you get a copy of this type of email, just ignore it!

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Microsoft’s XP “Re-hash” further update! by bluetracker @ 12:15 am

News disclosed on how the new XP “RE-HASH will work

Demonstrating a new feature that will be included within the ‘XP-re hash’ due out later on this year for downloading. This it is claimed that it will allow users to trick their computers into behaving as if some of Microsoft's own software tools had been removed from the operating system.
The new utility called ”Set Program Access and Defaults.'' Users can now choose whether to continue using Microsoft's Web browser or other programs for e-mail, music and video or instant-messages, plus Microsoft's support for the Java programming technology.

The US government demanded the redesign, aimed at helping rival software companies compete against Microsoft more fairly. A number of other state attorneys are still wanting to see additional penalties levied against the Corporate giant.

The US government did not insist that Microsoft make similar changes to earlier versions of Windows; the update will work on both Home and Professional editions of Windows XP.

Tough on pirated software-

As part of the update package, Microsoft also will use the Windows Update to crack down on software pirates: It appears that this feature has enabled MS to identify a stolen unlocking combination widely distributed on the Internet to install Windows XP illegally. As part of the re-hash they have now designed its update facility not to load on these illegal copies and will block these users from downloading future repairing patches from its Web site. Microsoft it seems have refused to estimate how many users might be affected saying only that it identified a sizable number of illegal copies of Windows XP that would account for millions in lost sales.

This is not the first time Microsoft have used this avenue to weed out illegal copies of their software “Office Update” was used to sabotage its Office business software electronically on computers it believed were running illegal copies.


All in all this would seem a fair trade-off between ‘user configurability’ and the right of the vendor to hunt down software pirated copies of it’s wares. For the sake of everyone who has a legal copy of the OS installed on their computers, let’s hope they get it right! As things develop ‘over the pond’ we at the Technology vault will keep you posted with the latest news on this front.


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Ice on Mars by @ 12:12 am

The news has been dominated today by the find on Mars of vast quantities of frozen water. The discovery was made by the Mars Odyssey spacecraft, which has been gathering data since late last year and it seems every news site is running the story. It's even being said that NASA is going to bring forward it's manned flight to Mars on some sites.


a shot from the Odyssey spacecraft

In the midst of this hysteria, Pervance brings us back down to earth with his own story sent to Newsbytes. Pervance writes:

The news has been dominated today by the find on Mars of vast quantities of frozen water.

All over the world the experts are gathering and there is even talk of sending an exploratory craft to the planet in order to get a sample of the elusive substance.

However the nine year old son of one of the experts said, "Its probably just ice Dad"

Thank you for that!

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Sunday 26 May, 2002

InstallConstruct™ v4.6 by @ 11:25 pm

File Stream have developed a new version of InstallConstruct™ for use by serious programmers to make installers for program to run on Windows based PCs. File Stream says:

InstallConstruct is a full featured Windows installer program, which is designed with a user-friendly expanding wizard system to make creating Windows 3.1, 95, 95b, NT 3.51, NT (SP1-SP6), 98, ME, 2000, and XP Installer, self-extracting Packages, Setup Wizards, and Uninstallers easy. Unlike other Installer and Setup creation programs, InstallConstruct does not require the user to have any programming background; nor does it require the user to learn any application specific language.

InstallConstruct not only creates Setup Wizards and HTML-based installations, it also automatically saves each step of your work in the creation of a project as a package script file (*.adx). These script files not only save you from the repetitive task of creating other similar packages and in updating the existing ones manually, they also support command line batch processing in unattended operation so they can be created automatically, without any user prompts!

These systems are ideal for the efficient and professional distribution and installation of groups of files, economically compressed in size for you and your user's convenience. In addition to creating the installation system, the program offers the convenience of delivering files through the Internet or Intranet, requiring no additional programs for your file installation.

InstallConstruct is the answer to all of your installation worries - complete flexibility and versatility in a simple, easy-to-use package!

It's one of the very few programs on CNet that got a full 100% happy user rating from those that have tried it. However, at a cost of $295 it's not cheap. But if you like to create programs and require something to make an installer, you find it hard to find anything better.

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DirectX 9.0 Beta by @ 10:38 pm

Digital Resource have a Beta version of the new DirectX 9.0. They tell us:

This is a new DirectX Web-base setup application for installing the end-user runtime. The same application can install on all supported Operation System and minimizes the download size to only the DirectX components your system requires.

IMPORTANT
If you are not 100% sure of what you are doing, DO NOT try to download this version of DirectX. You cannot uninstall it once installed!!

Digital Resources also says:
*The DirectX runtime files are uninstalable. This is a beta and it is important for you set a “System Restore Point” before installing the runtime. Please view your Operating System’s help files for more information.
*Requires Microsoft® Windows® 98, Windows Me, Windows 2000 or Windows XP
*Does not support either Windows® 95, Windows NT 4.0 or Beta version of New Operating Systems
*This requires Internet connections
*This is for English only
*The DirectX runtime files cannot be uninstalled. This is a beta and it is important for you set a “System Restore Point” before installing the runtime. Please view your Operating System’s help files for more information.

If you are 100% sure that you want to try this new version, visit Digital Resource

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Nvidia at E3 by @ 10:05 pm

Nvidia have put up a page about some of the exciting new games that will use the Nvidia range of GPU's. The feature titled Nvidia @ E3 tells us about some of the new games under development.



Games included in the review are Counter-Strike: Condition Zero, Deus Ex 2: Invisible War, Neverwinter Nights, PlanetSide, Star Trek: Elite Force II, Star Wars Galaxies and Unreal Tournament 2003.

Two new titles from Microsoft are also reviewed - Age of Mythology and Asheron’s Call 2.




Nvidia tells us:

Providing the ultimate platform for digital entertainment, NVIDIA's GPUs are the overwhelming choice to power more than 600 of the hottest new games - including PC and Xbox titles - on display at this week's Electronic Entertainment Expo (E3). From Tomb Raider's Lara Croft to the online world of EverQuest to the newest wave of games for the Xbox game console, NVIDIA GPUs provide the graphics processing power needed to unleash stunning 3D worlds and the most life-like character animations ever seen in interactive entertainment.

Nvidia provide links to all the games sites where you can download screensavers, watch videos and see all the screen shots.


A screenshot showing water effect in Asheron’s Call 2

Asheron's Call 2
Asheron’s Call® 2 is the next generation Fantasy massively multiplayer online role playing game (MMORPG) where the world dynamically evolves around you. Enter a land devastated by a magical disaster, where the players must rebuild the world.

Asheron’s Call 2 features an all-new graphics engine, combat system and dynamic content system to deliver a rich, engaging fantasy world where world-shaking changes sweep you along an epic story-line.

I'm not much of a gamer myself (in fact I'm useless at playing games) but as you may know I love demos and things that push graphics cards to their limits. Well, I know screen shots do not do justice to many games but most new games reviewed seem to be on simular themes to many games that have gone before. Although graphics look slightly better than previous versions, I havn't seen anything that has blown me away yet.

Game developers seem to have concentrated on new games engines to make games work and run better. Maybe it just the fact that there have been so many variations on the same theme with games (I mean, get a great idea and flog it to death) but I'm in the need to see something completely new, something that's going to keep totally immersed and amazed!

Still, It's good to see what's on offer. So head on over to Nvidia and take a look.

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Evolution Robotics™ Introduces the ER1 - The First Personal Robot System for Consumers by bluetracker @ 9:00 pm

The ER1, available in two configurations, is the first in a line of autonomous personal robots that Evolution Robotics plans to introduce over the next year, and which truly brings robots into the mainstream consumer market.



The ER1 Personal Robot is the first easy-to-use personal robot system that provides robust real world functionality, allowing early-adopter consumers to own mobile robots that can be trained to autonomously perform tasks for them. For example, users can instruct their robot to respond to voice commands, take photographs of its environment and send them to an email address, play music from a CD it recognizes, read books from pre-recordings and send reminders to its owner. There are even plans afoot to add a robot arm to the contraption (as an extra of course), handy for fetching a ‘Cold One’ from the fridge during a “Couch potato session!”
The ER1 will be sold through www.evolution.com, as well as through selected retail outlets and catalogues, and will begin shipping this summer (2002).
Also announced is the ER1-K personal robot kit for DIY enthusiasts. The ER1-K includes stepper motors, a motor controller that again plugs into a laptop, a USB camera, the same GUI-based ER1 software control centre and the XBeams™ aluminium building system for easy construction. It’s claimed that the kit can be easily assembled in under an hour and has the same functionality as the ER1 with the added benefit of being re-configurable to different shapes and accessories. Both robot products require a laptop to run the system and interface with the other hardware components.


The ER1 Personal Robot System provides an array of features and built-in functions including:
· Powerful computer vision to recognize and track objects in different environments;
· Autonomous or remote-controlled mobility;
· Photography and video to capture events;
· Text-to-speech and voice recognition capabilities;
· New patent-pending intuitive user interface for controlling a robot;
· Ability to take commands via email (wireless network required for some features)
To see a more detail on this new toy look HERE

Perhaps this new robot is without the cute characteristics of Sony’s Ebo robot dog, but fun nevertheless. Gives a new meaning to the statement “Have laptop will travel” although I personally would be apprehensive at seeing my prized laptop wander out of the doorway under it’s own power!


--------------------------------

V21 0808 back up by @ 11:33 am

Newsbytes has been following the authentication problems that V21 0808 customers have had over the last 24 hours and BT have now resolved the problem. V21 have posted the following status message on their homepage.

We are pleased to confirm that the authentication problems of the last 24 hours have now been resolved. The system was operational at 10:30 this morning and BT have now confirmed that their works have been satisfactorily completed.

We will be contacting BT on Monday for an explanation as to why this problem has taken so long to rectify. In the mean time we offer our apologies for the inconvenience and thank you for your patience over this period.

Top marks to V21 who kept their customers informed via their homepage throughout the problem.


-----------------------------------------

Symantec virus info by @ 6:15 am

It's been a little while now since Newsbytes reported on any virus news so, here are 2 of the latest find by Symantec.

Backdoor.Omed.B

Backdoor.Omed.B is a Trojan horse which downloads a file from the Internet and executes it. At the time of writing, this downloaded file contained two different Backdoor Trojans.

NOTE: Norton AntiVirus detects both backdoor Trojans that Backdoor.Omed.B attempts to download.


Also Known As: TrojanDownloader.Win32.Smokedown
Type: Trojan Horse
Infection Length: 3,738 Bytes
Systems Affected: Windows
Systems Not Affected: Macintosh, Unix, Linux


Digispid.B.Worm

Digispid.B.Worm is a worm which spreads to computers that are running Microsoft SQL Server and which have a blank SQL administrator password. It copies files to the infected computer and changes the SQL administrator password to a string of four random characters.

The worm is unlikely to propagate in a production environment using SQL server because it relies upon the following assumptions to spread:


"sa" SQL server account has no password
SQL is running with Administrative access. By default, the SQL Server runs in the security context of a domain user.

An infected computer can be identified by the presence following characteristics:

The presence of some or all of these files:
%System32%\Drivers\Services.exe
%System32%\Sqlexec.js
%System32%\Clemail.exe
%System32%\Sqlprocess.js
%System32%\Sqlinstall.bat
%System32%\Sqldir.js
%System32%\Run.js
%System32%\Timer.dll
%System32%\Samdump.dll
%System32%\Pwdump2.exe
Many outgoing port 1433 requests

Users can protect themselves by doing the following:

Firewall filtering of incoming/outgoing port 1433 requests.
Filter outgoing email messages to "ixltd@postone.com"
Filter outgoing email messages that have subjects beginning with "SystemData-"
Verify that all SQL server "sa" accounts have passwords

For systems that have been infected, you will notice the following symptoms:

Increased internet traffic
Many outgoing port 1433 requests
Emails the Operating System user password and SQL server data information to "ixltd@postone.com"
SQL server "sa" password will be changed

When systems have been infected, you should do the following:

Update Norton AntiVirus definitions and perform a full system scan.
Reset all operating system and SQL Server passwords.

Read the additional information section at the bottom of this document for more general actions that you should perform to protect your systems from unknown threats. Also, for general information regarding security best practices, read the Recommendations section of this document.

Also Known As: JS_SQLSpida.B, Hacktool.IPStealer, JS.Spida.B, JS/SQLSpida.b.worm, SQLSnake, SQLSpida, MS SQL Worm
Type: Trojan Horse, Worm
Infection Length: 1,140 bytes, 2,208 bytes, 4,249 bytes, 20,480 bytes, 368,640 bytes, 32,768 bytes, 243 bytes, 36,864 bytes, 13,312 bytes, 4,701 bytes
Systems Affected: Windows, Windows 95, Windows 98, Windows NT, Windows 2000, Windows XP, Windows Me

-------------------------------------------

Saturday 25 May, 2002

The latest on V21 by @ 9:36 pm

V21 0808 customers have been unable to use the internet since 10.30am this morning. Newsbytes reported earlier that V21 had posted a status message saying that they would make another announcement after 6.00pm tonight. But now it seems that the V21 homepage is down too.

Hang on... It's just this second returned with the latest service status message. V21 tells it's customers:

We have been informed by BT that a replacement unit will now not be available until tomorrow morning. Whilst we are sure that we hold the same views as our userbase in finding the timescale to resolve this problem unacceptable there is little we can do except continue to apply pressure to resolve the issue.

The next update will be made at 8 AM tomorrow morning or on resolution of the issue, whichever comes first.

Any users who require access whilst this problem continues can still use the local rate access number 0845 120 7961 as this service is not affected by the problem.


Good old BT! :-)

How about that for 'hot off the press' news!

-------------------------------------------------

V21 firewall problem by @ 5:29 pm

V21 have confirmed that they have an Authentication problem which is stopping customers who use the 0808 dial-up number from getting access to the internet.

The service status message reads as follows:
The engineers have confirmed that there is a hardware fault with a shared firewall supplied by BT at their location which is preventing our users from authenticating on the 0808 access numbers. The engineers are trying to source a replacement and we will keep you updated as to their progress. A further update will be made at approximately 6 PM.

V21 customers have been unable to connect since approx. 10.30am this morning. Customers are still waiting for the 6.00pm update from V21. V21 are very good at keeping customers up to date with problems the ISP have but do seem a little slow at getting them fixed however, the problems don't often lie at V21's end to be fair.

V21 has recently resolved a problem with their customers webspace (21 May 2002).

Customers are advised that they can still use the internet via their pay-as-you-go telephone number 0845120796

---------------------------------------------

NVRT Update (updated story) by @ 4:55 pm

Newsbytes has just been emailed by the makers of Nvidia refreshrate tool and boy do we have news for you! A new version (version 1.0) will be uploaded tonight. Newsbytes has been told, If we thought version 0.76b was good, Version 1.0 will blow us away!

To quote from the email:
Just wait and see what 1.0 packs, we're about { } this close to releasing it....finalizing some things and we'll have it either tonight or tomorrow.....I've got a lot to do today in real life so the program is gonna have to wait another X amount of hours...LOL.....But yes, we've added some really extensive things to version 1.0

This is a real scoop for Newsbytes. It's the first time Newsbytes has been emailed from a programmer of any software and given any 'inside information'. I think we may have even beaten nvnews with this story!

Keep your eyes peeled on THIS PAGE to see the download information and release notes for version 1.0.

Many, many thanks to the makers of NRVT for sending us this news!

######Version 1.0 is now available######

NVRT now has these following features:
Startup Feature added

Installer Program

Older Detonator Support

New and improved help file translated in 7 languages.

Direct3D-based Vsync testing tool

Code cleanup and UI changes

Custom Resolution/TVTool support

Debugging text file for better support

Note to NVNews Visitors: The incorrect link on the NVNews site refers to my website (www.thecaretakers.net) and not this site which is (www.technologyvault.co.uk) but you are all welcome here. Thank you for your visit. Why not join our popular forums?


----------------------------------------------

Microsoft XP SP1 update by bluetracker @ 11:47 am

The Caretakers article
As you will have read in the above article by the Caretaker in these columns (you DID read it didn’t you?), Microsoft has said it will release SP1 for it’s XP operating system around August of this year. What you all may NOT be aware of is the fact that it wasn't out of the goodness of ‘Uncle Bill's’ heart that this has transpired.
It was a consequence of the ongoing Courtroom legal shenanigans that actually paved the way for more consumer 'leeway' in what MS is and isn't allowed to do when you to buy their products, the article from accessatlanta.com is just one part of 'the big picture' that is slowly emerging from ‘over the pond’.

******************



The service pack; or as I prefer to call it "the XP re-write" will, as I understand it, effectively 'do away' with the current practice of such MS 'add-ons' like Outlook Express, Messenger, Media Player and the like, being forced upon purchasers of a MS operating system at the time of installation.

At present, when you install XP, (or any other MS operating system for that matter) many 'add-ons' are loaded automatically, whether you want them or not. Ok so there are utilities from ‘third parties’ you can use to effectively remove these after installation, but in the plain light of day, campaigners have for many years battled with MS over this 'backdoor marketing ploy'. Consumers HAD to allow installation of things they didn’t want if they were to benefit from the operating system they had bought licence to use.

Computer privacy lobbyists also claimed that this ‘bundled software’ when loaded, had the unwavering right to auto update itself, giving rise to their claims of it being just another way that Microsoft was allowed to ‘spy’ on purchaser of their software, and more worryingly, also allowing the unscrupulous to devise means of logging every movement or compromising systems with viruses on the ‘World Wide Web’ without the users knowledge.

Third party software utilities claiming to remove these ‘so-called’ unwanted add-ons in some cases, only do so to the detriment of system stability, a fact that lobbyists claim is the reason MS put them there in the first place to get everyone using MS products rather than those of their rivals. Whatever the truth behind this is, it is beyond the scope of this column to speculate or debate on the validity of these claims which have been thrown into the melting pot of legal arguments and counter claims in the US courts.

Consumer reliability on such ‘remedial’ software though; is set to be a thing of the past as the US judicial system ‘wheedles’ more concessions out of the multi billion-dollar Microsoft Empire in favour of “Joe Consumer”.

The Courtroom drama in the last few months has finally allowed the end user of MS products the right to personally decide the fate of these various ‘add-ons’.
Of course this path is not all 'sweetness and light'; rival software manufacturers will have to write code to integrate into the 'XP re-hash' that will allow their products to be installed and integrated into the operating system as default rather than the bundled stuff included on the MS set-up media.
All things being equal it is this ‘newshounds’ belief; the Courtroom decision is a giant step in the right direction for the consumer.
As the battle rages on ‘over the pond’, we will watch with interest for signs of further changes to the "Microsoft world as we know it" and endeavour to keep you up to date with all the revelations as they are revealed.
Could it be that we are seeing the emergence of a truly ‘USER CONFIGURABLE’ operating system from Microsoft? Only time (and the Courts) will tell.


----------------------------------------

Friday 24 May, 2002

Nvidia Refresh Tool by @ 6:26 pm

At last, a real fix for Win2000/XP users. This little tool gives maximum refresh rates with nVidia based graphics cards. No more eye strain or monitor clonking and it works with the latest Nvidia Detonator drivers too.

It's easy to install, just download it, run it, set it and forget it.
I've used 'the older refresh rate fix tool', you know, the one that nolonger works with the latest drivers but this baby is the best yet. I've run demos with all sorts of screen sizes at 16 and 32bit colour depth and the monitor hasn't clonked once. Maximum refresh rates everytime!

It has even made some programs run faster (Don't ask me why). I run the Serenescreen Aquarium screensaver and was stuck with a maximum of 78fps with all fish running with WindowsXP but now, I'm running at well over 100fps. The monitor is running just the same as it did under Windows98 with maximum refresh rate setting for each screen resolution.


nvrt's control panel

3D programs and games look so much better with higher refresh rates and you get alot less eye stain too. It means you can play for longer without getting sore eyes!

The makers of nvrt tell us:
NVRefreshTool is a utility used to fix the problem in Windows 2000/XP that sets your refresh rate to 60Hz when you play ANY game. This problem occurs whether or not you have a higher refresh rate set in your Display Properties of Windows.

NVRefreshTool is simple and easy to use. Just load up the NVRefreshTool program and it will automatically detect the maximum refresh rate at each resolution that your monitor supports. If you're an advanced user, you can customize each refresh rate at each resolution.

Currently NVRefreshTool supports all Detonator versions 27.42 and above.

Just a note on this, if your drivers are older than the 27.42 then you will not be able to use this program.

What's more folks, it's free! CLICK HERE to visit the nvrt homepage and to download this utility.

------------------------------------------------

Lavasoft update by @ 3:53 pm

Lavasoft have released an updated spyware reference file for Ad-Aware spyware removal software. You will need the new Refupdate 2.01 program to update this file. Lavasoft tells us:

This update adds UCmore detection and removal to Ad-aware.The release number is 017-21-05-02



For those of you who do not know what Ad-Aware does, Lavasoft tells us:

Ad-aware is a free multi spyware removal utility that scans your memory, registry and hard drives for known spyware and scumware components and lets you remove them safely. It is updated frequently.

Ad-Aware now covers the following spyware:
All versions of Adware, Alexa, Aureate, Comet Cursor, Cydoor, Doubleclick, DSSAgent, EverAd, eZula, Expedioware, Flyswat, OfferCompanion, Hotbar, OnFlow, TimeSink, Web3000, Webhancer, Transponder, Wnad, ZapSpot, SurfPlus, AdvertBar, NetPal, CashBar, WurldMediaBHO, MessageMates, EWA, Ezsearchbar, CommonName, GoHip, DownloadWare, NetworkEssentials, ImiServerIEPlugin, TopMoxie, Lop.Com, BDE Projector, UCmore, OpenMe, JaypeeSysBHo, FlashTrack, NetRadar, many BrowserHijackers and more...(updated frequently)

Newsbytes suggests that you scan your system at least once a week or after every download that you think may include spyware. Spyware is very common in free software like screensavers and P2P programs.

---------------------------------------------

AVG Update by @ 3:34 pm

Grisoft, the makers of the free AVG anti-virus software have released an update. Grisoft tells us:

In this update we have added detection of I-Worm/Klez.E virus.

If you use the Outlook Express plug-in you should see the following message:

Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.365 / Virus Database: 202 - Release Date: 24/05/2002

The download file size is 837.8Kbytes.

Many thanks to Slarty and Westy for telling Newsbytes about this update.

-----------------------------------------------------

WindowsXP SP1 by @ 12:27 pm

Microsoft is set to trial the first service pack for WindowsXP. Service Pack 1 should be avaiable for users to download in August this year. The download will be a massive 40mb and will include many new fixes. The main news about this service pack is that it will enable third party software to be installed on WindowsXP without any problems.

This is good news for people who like browsers like Netscape and Opera or users of other mail handling software. Microsoft is being forced to introduce these changes since their recent 'anti trust' law suit in the US.

So, How has Microsoft made the changes? Well, it seems that in good old Microsoft fashion it will give you the chance to set the default browser or mail handling programs. The defaults will be originally set to the Microsoft software but you have the opportunity to change it if you wish.

The software covered here is Internet Explorer 6.?, Outlook Express, Messenger, Windows Media Player and Microsoft's Java Virtual Machine. You will get 4 options to configuration XP via a new control feature. However, Microsoft says that to be included in this new feature the software must be written so that it can be registered with the new features. Just knew Microsoft wouldn't make it that easy!

Microsoft will be giving copies of the new service pack to developers to test out before giving it to users. This should iron out any security bugs first time round. Microsoft needs to change the views of the general public about XP.

However, at 40mb download, it's a large service pack. Most people will be able to obtain the upgrade via CD cover mags. And as expected, it will be free!



--------------------------------------------

Authentication Flaw in Windows Debugger by @ 4:26 am

Microsoft Technet has released a bulletin which tells Administrators of Microsoft® Windows NT® 4.0, Windows® 2000 systems about an authentication flaw in Windows Debugger which can lead to elevated privileges.

We are told:
Authentication Flaw in Windows Debugger can Lead to Elevated Privileges

Who should read this bulletin: Administrators of Microsoft® Windows NT® 4.0, Windows® 2000 systems.

Impact of vulnerability: Elevation of Privilege

Maximum Severity Rating: Critical

Recommendation: System Administrators should apply the patch to all systems that allow unprivileged users to log onto them interactively.

Affected Software:

Microsoft Windows NT 4.0
Microsoft Windows NT 4.0 Server, Terminal Server Edition
Microsoft Windows 2000

Technical description:
The Windows debugging facility provides a means for programs to perform diagnostic and analytic functions on applications as they are running on the operating system. One of these capabilities allows for a program, usually a debugger, to connect to any running program, and to take control of it. The program can then issue commands to the controlled program, including the ability to start other programs. These commands would then execute in the same security context as the controlled program.

There is a flaw in the authentication mechanism for the debugging facility such that an unauthorized program can gain access to the debugger. A vulnerability results because an attacker can use this to cause a running program to run a program of her choice. Because many programs run as the operating system, this means that an attacker can exploit this vulnerability to run code as the operating system itself. She could take any action on the system including deleting data, adding accounts with administrative access, or reconfiguring the system.

A successful attack requires the ability to logon interactively to the system, either at the console or through a terminal session. Also, an a successful attack requires the introduction of code to exploit this vulnerability. Because best practices recommends restricting the ability to logon interactively on servers, this issue most directly affects client systems and terminal servers.

Mitigating factors:
A successful attack requires the ability to logon interactively to the target machine, either directly at the console or through a terminal session. Best practices strongly militate against ever allowing an unprivileged user to interactively log onto business-critical systems such as ERP servers, database servers, domain controllers and the like. If these recommendations have been followed, the vulnerability would principally pose a threat only to systems like workstations and terminal servers.
A successful attack requires that the attacker be able to load code of her choice on the system. Restrictions on a user's ability to load and execute arbitrary code could potentially prevent a successful attack.


-------------------------------------------------

Thursday 23 May, 2002

Netscape 7.0 PR1 by @ 12:12 pm

Netscape has made available a preiview version of Netscape 7.0 to download. Newsbytes looks at what's new in this version of the worlds second most popular web browser.

Here are just some of the features in Netscape 7.0

Navigator

Tabbed Browsing feature lets to visit multiple web pages in a single window: Tabbed Browsing can be launched in one of three ways: from the File menu, choose New, then Navigator Tab; or you can right-mouse click on a hypertext link and open its contents in a new tab; or for those who prefer keystrokes, Ctrl+Topens a new tab.

Bookmark Groups lets you bookmark several web pages in one bookmark: Open two or more Navigator tabs, then open the Bookmarks menu and choose File Bookmark. Check "File as group."

Radio@Netscape lets you listen to music over the Internet: Click Radio in the Personal Toolbar.

Click-to-Search lets you search for words you select in a web page: Select any word in a web page, right-click, and select "Web Search ..."

Download Manager lets you view and manage all your downloads: Open the Tools menu and select Download Manager.

Web Site Icon (Favicon) support: Web Site Icons show up next to the URL in the Location bar, in bookmarks, and in Navigator tabs when using Tabbed Browsing.

Save whole web pages: Save a whole web page along with graphics by choosing "Web Page, Complete" when saving web pages.

Full Screen Mode gives more space to view web pages: Open the View menu and choose Full Screen, or press F11.

Drag and drop bookmarks into folders, as well as improved bookmark management such as bookmark sorting.

Print Preview lets you see a page before you print it: Open the File menu and choose Print Preview.

Print Setup gives you greater control over how you print: Open the File menu and choose Page Setup.

P3P (Privacy Preference Project) support give you more control over how web pages can use your personal information.

Update Notification tells you when a updates to Netscape are available: Open Preferences and choose Advanced > Software Installation.

Set as Wallpaper: Right-click on any image in Navigator and choose Set As Wallpaper.

Netscape Mail

Mail Notification in Netscape Mail shows how many new emails you have.

Quick Search in Netscape Mail and Address Book lets you more easily search your messages and contacts: Look for it at the top of your message and contact list.

Mail labels allow you to prioritize your emails: Right-click on a message in your message list and choose Label.

Create Filter from Message lets you add filters to Netscape Mail based on information in the message: Click on a message header in an email and choose "Create Filter from Message."

Return receipts in Netscape Mail allow you to send and request confirmation that an email is recieved. To request a return receipt while writing an email, open the Option menu and check Return Receipt.

Improved email importing in Netscape Mail: Netscape nows supports importing email from Netscape Communicator, Eudora, Outlook,
Outlook Express, and text files (LDIF, .tab, .csv, .txt). Open the

Tools menu in Netscape Mail and choose Import.
New corporate features in Netscape Mail including S/MIME, Shared folders for IMAP, Secure LDAP, and Offline LDAP.

Address Book

New support for exporting contacts: In Address Book, open the Tools menu and choose Export.

Get Map: Click Get Map in a card with an address to automatically see a map using MapQuest.

Instant Messenger

Buddy Icons: Choose your own icons that show up while chatting with your buddies.

Buddy Alerts: Set up sound and window alerts when specific buddies come online.

File Transfer: Send files to your buddy's PC.
AIM Today: Keeps you informed about the AIM community, the latest news, and the newest Buddy Icons.

Server-side Buddy List storage: Lets you access you Buddy List from any computer.

New integrated ICQ: Chat with your ICQ friend using ICQ within Netscape.

Netscape Composer
One-button publishing in Netscape Composer.
Netscape Help and Support Center
New search feature lets you search for help topics. Click the Search tab in the Help window.

Improved index and glossary: Click the Index or Glossary tab in the Help window.

New information on Netscape keyboard shortcuts: Click Netscape Keyboard Shortcuts in the Contents tab.

To read all about this preview version and to give it a try CLICK HERE

Many thanks to Eggz for telling us about this new browser from Netscape!

------------------------------------------------

Wednesday 22 May, 2002

The MET on the NET by @ 4:51 pm

In a press release on Monday, the MET Office told us:

The Met Office has today launched a pioneering, free, on-line information service with rainfall and temperature outlooks for up to four months ahead over the whole globe. This is the first time the weather service is using its expertise to let the public know the odds on what to expect from the weather this season.

Updated each month, these experimental forecasts provide the probability that temperature and rainfall (averaged over a three-month period) will be above or below the climate norm for various regions. For the UK, the predicted outlook to the end of July is that it is likely to be warmer than normal over most areas, but wetter than normal over the western parts of the country.

Mike Davey, manager of the Met Office’s seasonal prediction group, said: “These are very different from a daily weather forecast which gives information for a particular place and time: with seasonal forecasts we provide likelihoods for conditions averaged over a few months.”

The seasonal outlooks are formulated using the Met Office’s state-of-the-art forecasting models.

To visit the new long range forecast CLICK HERE

The MET office explains that these forecasts are considered experimental. The Met Office accepts no responsibility for actions taken on the basis of these forecasts.

--------------------------------------------------

Tuesday 21 May, 2002

Security flaw found in ‘Ipswitch Imail’ by bluetracker @ 5:51 pm

The full bulletin advising of the security flaw can be seen at-
Net-security.org

It tells of how the flaw would allow remote access to the server with system account privileges.



The vulnerability affects Imail versions 7.1 and earlier, and stems from a buffer overflow in the Ipswitch Imail LDAP component.
The problem arises on authentication in the server, as an attacker could provide an overly long string to the "bind DN" parameter causing a buffer overflow and thus interrupting the Imail service. If the attacker had carefully crafted the parameter, they could also run code on the server.

To fix this vulnerability, Ipswitch have made a patch available for direct download HERE

Carers online by @ 4:03 pm

Carers Online is a new website set up to provide carers, those supporting them and others with national and local information. carers Online says that it's new website is a partnership website.

The site was developed by Carers UK, in partnership with the Worshipful Company of Information Technologists (WCIT). It will continue to develop over the next three years.

National information on this site is provided by Carers UK.

Local information is currently provided on county sites by Devon, Surrey and West Sussex County Councils(ICIS). Together, these four organisations are known as the Carers Online Network. Carers UK seeks to develop this network to include your local information provider. To this end we seek local providers who would like to join the network. They would be asked to provide information in line with the ‘Carers Online Webstandards’ document.

Apart from providing information to adult carers, Carers Online also provide help for young carers under the age of 18. We are told:

Young people, aged under 18, who have caring responsibilities are often referred to as 'young carers'. They are people whose lives are in some way restricted because of the need to take on inappropriate or excessive responsibilities for the care of a person who is ill, has a disability, is experiencing mental distress or is affected by substance misuse.

This situation often arises because of a lack of good quality, appropriate, affordable and accessible health and community care services and a lack of information about how to get assistance.

Having a parent or a sibling with an illness or disability does not mean that a young person would necessarily be a 'young carer'.

Another service is Care Radio. You will need Realplayer to listen to the broadcast. They also provide information for emergency help.

The site also tell you how you can support them so they can continue to provide this vital service.

-----------------------------------------------

Digital Display Port (DDP) by @ 3:39 pm

Today, nVidia released a press release regarding:

New Digital Display Initiative. Innovative Design Uses Existing AGP Bus and Add-In Card to Provide Industry's Only Low-Cost Digital Display Connectivity Solution.

Recognizing the increasing use of digital displays in both home and corporate environments, NVIDIA(R) Corporation (Nasdaq: NVDA) today announced a new AGP riser card technology initiative, called the Digital Display Port (DDP). NVIDIA's DDP specification provides OEMs, system builders, and motherboard manufacturers an opportunity to offer end-users an inexpensive way-through the use of a low-cost AGP add-in card-to connect digital displays, including flat panel monitors and high-definition televisions to PCs designed with an NVIDIA integrated graphics solution and an AGP expansion port.

"PCs utilizing integrated graphics solutions, such as NVIDIA's own nForce(TM) Platform Processors, include an AGP port that often goes unused," said Dan Vivoli, vice president of marketing at NVIDIA. "By multiplexing the Digital Visual Interface (DVI) signal on the AGP bus, DDP provides a low-cost alternative that allows end users to upgrade to the latest in digital display technology, without having to compromise the high-performing graphics already integrated directly onto the motherboard."

Although the first DDP-based add-in cards will only work with nForce-based motherboards and PCs, NVIDIA has designed DDP as an open standard that can be implemented royalty-free by other PC core-logic designers and manufacturers. To date, DDP has already received unmitigated support from many of the industry's leading core-logic, display, and motherboard manufacturing technology companies, including ABIT, ALI/Acer Labs, ASUSTeK, Chaintech, Chrontel, Conexant Systems Inc., IDTech, Leadtek, LG/Philips, MSI, NEC/Mitsubishi, QDI, Samsung, Silicon Image, Sony, and Tatung.

"NVIDIA's DDP proposal is attractive on many fronts," said Joe Hsieh, Director of Motherboards at ASUSTeK Computer Inc. "For one, it is fully compatible with the existing AGP spec, and doesn't require any additional components or signal routing to our standard motherboard designs. By using the high-speed AGP bus to send the DVI signals to the digital display, end users can be assured of the best visual quality possible. ASUSTeK is very excited about the potential DDP brings to our customers."

"Connecting PCs to different digital displays such as DVI and HDTV will greatly enhance the capabilities of the PC platform," said David Soo, President of Chrontel. "This will open new markets and new applications for the PC industry and will dramatically help increase the proliferation and the use of digital displays on a global scale."

A DDP draft specification, including pin-out information, is available now from NVIDIA. Reference cards for testing and evaluation are available immediately from Chrontel, Conexant and Silicon Image. Samples of DDP add-in cards are also currently available from ASUSTeK, MSI and Leadtek. DDP cards supporting either DVI, TV-Out or both will be available later this year for approximately $20 USD.

------------------------------------------------

Girl, 13, murdered by man in chatroom by @ 3:23 pm

A 13yr old girl has been murdered in Connecticut by a man she had met in an online chatroom. Christina Long was found strangled to death in a ravine 3 days after she had gone missing.

Police say that this was the first meeting with her killer after sending many online messages to each other.

It's a stark warning to all parents who let their children use chatrooms without supervision.

The police have named her killer as 25yr old Saul Dos Reis.

----------------------------------------------------

AVG Update by @ 12:00 pm

Grisoft.com, the makers of free AVG Antivirus software have relleased an update. Grisoft tells us that this update includes removal of Worm/Benjamin which Newsbytes reported about over the weekend and new variant of I-Worm/Yaha - I-Worm/Yaha.D.
Worm/Benjamin is the worm virus which uses the Kazzar P2P network to spread itself.


AVG Update 'file download' display

If you use the Outlook Express plug-in then you should see the following message at the bottom of your emails.

This email is certified Virus Free.
Checked by AVG anti-virus system (http://www.grisoft.com).
Version: 6.0.363 / Virus Database: 201 - Release Date: 21/05/2002

GRISOFT is a member of ICSA (International Computer Security Association). AVG Anti-Virus is certified by ICSA, which means the independent testing laboratories test the program functionality and 100% detection rate on regular basis.

Newsbytes suggest that whatever anti-virus software you use, always update it every 2-3 days.

Grisoft suggest that once you have downloaded an update file that you also make a fresh copy of the AVG boot floppy. For restoring system areas an older backup is sufficient, but for detection / healing you must recreate your emergency disk.

Many thanks to Slarty who was the first to inform Newsbytes of this update.

-------------------------------------------------------

Oftel release statement by @ 4:34 am

In a direct response to complaints from ISP's such as Freeserve, Oftel has made a statement explaining how BT should market it's internet services. Here is the statement:

A statement setting out the customer information and procedures BT can use to market its Internet services has been published today by Oftel.

The procedures will enable consumers to have easy access to information on what services are available to them and make clear how BT can market its services without acting anti-competitively.

BT cannot use detailed information contained in residential customers’ bills in order to target its Internet access services to particular customers, as no other operator has access to this information. Oftel is likely to view use of this information as anti-competitive.

BT sales staff will be subject to strict procedures to ensure that they comply with these rules. Oftel will closely monitor BT’s compliance, and will review the situation after six months.

BT is also allowed to use its residential ‘blue bill’ to charge for its new ‘BT Broadband’ service.

If at any time there are breaches in compliance then Oftel will consider invoking tougher procedures.

David Edmonds, Director General of Telecommunications, said:

"Internet services in the UK are now growing rapidly. There are around 600,000 users of broadband, and sales by BT, ntl and Telewest are running at around 20,000 per week.

"Narrowband services also continue to grow: four million UK consumers are using unmetered access packages.

"Oftel wants to see fair competition across the market. This means that BT’s competitors must be sure that BT is complying with competition law and its licence.

"We have published clear procedures on BT’s marketing of Internet services and use of joint billing to ensure BT does not act anti-competitively.

"BT must not use billing information from its telephony customers to target its marketing of Internet services to residential consumers.

"Other operators and ISPs do not have access to this extensive and detailed information, and it would give BT an unfair marketing advantage to use residential billing information.

"BT can market Internet services on a generic basis, for example by including information about a new product with everyone’s bill. And like other companies, BT can conduct market research among its customer base or buy in market research in order to make its marketing more effective.

"BT sales staff will be subject to strict procedures to ensure that they comply with these rules. Oftel will closely monitor BT’s compliance and will introduce tougher procedures if necessary.

"Both BT and other operators will be clear about what is permissible and Oftel will review the results after six months."

You can read the full statement HERE

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Another update for the Cleaner by bluetracker @ 12:45 am

Build 2057, size 298k

This latest update for 'The Cleaner' fixes a few known "problems".
Such as (according to the 'Read Me' file included)..........

Fixed missing right-click option on process list.
Fixed scanning bug.
Fixed Netmeeting conflict.

Improved performance all around.
Improved memory usage.
Added more sort options.
Added recent process highlight.
Added "Keep on top".
Worked around a problem introduced by a recent ICQ beta.
Removed dependency on shellhelp.dll under Win9x/ME due to lingering problems.
Completely re-designed.
Much lower resource requirements.
Friendlier user interface.

Also includes shellhelp.dll support library.

As before you can download from HERE
or use the 'Moolive' updater in the proggy itself.

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Monday 20 May, 2002

"Worm" Crawls Into The KaZaA Network by @ 10:37 pm

Kaspersky has issued a warning that a "Worm" virus has been found doing the rounds in the KaZaA P2P network. This is what they have to say:

The KaZaA file exchange network takes its turn as a virus victim.

Kaspersky Labs, an international data-security software developer, announces the detection of the network worm "Worm.Kazaa.Benjamin" - the first malicious program to spread through the KaZaA file exchange network.

The KaZaA network is one of the most popular file exchange networks using Peer-to-Peer (P2P) technology. Millions of people from all around the world are active users of the network that allows them to quickly dig up files they seek (such as MP3 files) and give other users access to data contained on their own computers.

On an infected computer "Benjamin" creates a directory accessible to other users of the KaZaA network and regularly copies itself into this directory under a multitude of different names, the amount of which counts several thousand. When a network user conducts a search for a file under a name corresponding with one the worm's pseudonyms the unsuspecting user is given the chance to download it from the infected computer. Thus, this is how Benjamin spreads itself through the KaZaA network.

In addition to eating up free disk space Benjamin takes additional actions: under the name of the infected computer's owner it opens an anonymous web site from which it displays advertising banners. This way Benjamin's creator profits by the resulting increase in advertising displays.

"Benjamin" is not the first known worm to exploit public access P2P file exchange networks. Previously the Gnutella file exchange network fell victim to virus creators. "This event once again demonstrates the necessity to filter all incoming files for viruses, regardless of how well protected this or any other network is. Before use all data should be run through a mandatory check for virus code using the latest virus database update," commented Denis Zenkin, Kaspersky Labs Head of Corporate Communications.

The defense against Benjamin is has already been added to the Kaspersky Anti-Virus database.


Newsbytes suggests that whatever antivirus software you use, keep it up to date by checking for updates every few days.

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Cisco systems Cache engine alert by bluetracker @ 5:45 pm

The vulnerability lies in the capacity of these devices to be configured to transparently intercept requests to proxy servers supporting various protocols. The default configuration of the proxy feature can be abused to open a TCP connection to any accessible IP address and hide the IP source address of the connection.

This could possibly be exploited by a malicious user to carry out several illegal operations, such as transmitting unsolicited commercial messages, unauthorized network scanning and denial of service attacks.



This vulnerability affects Cisco Cache Engine and Content Engine if they are running the versions of the software specified below:

- Content Engine 507, 560, 590 or 7320 with cache software 2.x, 3.1, 4.0.x or 4.1.x.

- Cache Engine 505, 550 or 570 with software version 2.2.0 or above.

- Content Router CR-4430, running ACNS 4.x.

- Content Distribution Manager CDM-4630 or CDM-4650 running ACNS 4.x.

Cisco has said that this vulnerability can be fixed by changing the configuration, as the default configuration does not provide the necessary security level.

For further info /patches and recommendations on this you can find what you need HERE

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Chips instead of needle by @ 5:21 pm

In a press release today, MicroCHIPS announced that they have closed a $16 million second round deal which sets them on the road for creating these MicroCHIP implants within the next 5 years.

MicroCHIPS' Technology
MicroCHIPS develops implantable drug delivery systems that use its patented MEMS (micro-electro-mechanical systems) technology and wireless communication to accurately dispense medicine. These microchip-based products will be used for pain management, hormone and steroid delivery, and some cancer and CNS disorders.

"MicroCHIPS' integration of drug delivery and wireless communication is a perfect example of the rapidly emerging intersection between life science and information technology. The company's products have the potential to revolutionize the medical landscape with a more effective way to manage therapy," said Michael Greeley, managing general partner, IDG Ventures, who will be joining MicroCHIPS' board of directors.

"From our initial investment in MicroCHIPS in 1999, we were impressed with the capabilities of the MicroCHIPS team," said Terry McGuire, founding partner, Polaris Venture Partners. "Today, as the medical community turns increasingly to silicon technology, we believe MicroCHIPS is poised to advance the current state of drug delivery, and we look forward to continuing to be a part of the company's futur