Another E-mail security problem is discovered, this one in Eudora

Article Abstract:

A security flaw in Qualcomm's Eudora 4.0, 4.01 and 4.1 Windows versions leaves the most popular E-mail software program vulnerable to attackers, who possibly can destroy or steal data from a PC. Unscrupulous users of various programming skill levels can take advantage of the flaw by linking a World Wide Web address to an Internet site that executes malignant code. The Aug 1998 discovery by Phar Lap Software affects around 500,000 of Eudora's customers, according to analysts. These customers combine the E-mail with Microsoft's Internet Explorer browser, which Microsoft integrated in its Windows 95 and Windows 98 OSes, according to analysts. It also follows serious security flaws in Microsoft and Netscape E-mail programs announced earlier in the month. Qualcomm said its Web site will offer a repaired Eudora version this afternoon. Eudora's flaw illustrates E-mail's growing power shift from sending simple text messages to Web browser-enabled features, which add software code.

Electronic mail systems, E-mail, Email, Email software, Technology application, QUALCOMM Inc., QCOM, Product application, Eudora

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Microsoft steps into debate over on-line privacy by buying Firefly

Article Abstract:

Microsoft's acquisition of software developer Firefly Network brings to fore the issue of Internet privacy because Firefly's technology focuses on allowing users to control their personal information on the Internet. While the essence of the technology is to protect consumers, some analysts argue that if Microsoft integrates the software into its Web browser, it will make it easier to gather massive amounts of information about individuals using the Net. Companies will be able to expand their collection of user information for marketing purposes. Firefly supports a new set of Internet privacy standards that allow computer users to choose the personal information they are will to transmit when visiting a Web site. Microsoft hails the standards as a necessary steps for personal privacy. Privacy advocates, however, are uncomfortable with the standards because they represent a compromise between unleashing the power of the Internet and curbing potential corporate abuses.

Usage, Mergers, acquisitions and divestments, Internet, Company acquisition/merger, Privacy issue, Privacy, Internet server software, Firefly Network Inc.

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Flaw reportedly found in Microsoft's browser

Article Abstract:

Computer researchers at Princeton University are reporting a potentially serious bug in Microsoft's Internet Explorer 3.0 Web browser. The bug could allow a hacker to send a destructive command to Windows-based PCs when they connect to a Web page. The hacker could also read, modify and delete the victim's files as well as place a virus on the machine or create a 'back door' to gain entrance to the machine. Microsoft has recognized the bug and plans to offer a software patch on its Web site. The company is also considering the development of a new version of the application. This is the second major bug discovered in the software. Over 1.3 million copies of Internet Explorer 3.0 have been downloaded from Microsoft's Web site since the Web browser was introduced on Aug 13, 1996.

Database Mgmt Software Pkgs, Web browser, Web browsers, Microsoft Internet Explorer 3.0 (Web browser)

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