Microsoft revises Passport to address issues of privacy

Article Abstract:

Microsoft plans to adjust its Internet authentication service, Passport to comply with the Platform for Privacy Preferences technology and manage the customer's preferences for information they wish not to share. Microsoft is responding to the government antitruts case which, among other things is targeting Windows XP, which is linked to Passport. The Electronic Privacy Information Center, who has joined the Federal Trade Commission in the government case feels that marketing companies can bug Passport with "cookies". Passport, which is a centralized data base with consumer information is riddled with security risks.

United States, Product development, Government regulation (cont), Regulation, Licensing, and Inspection of Miscellaneous Commercial Sectors, Antitrust Law, Internet software, Privacy, Right of, Right of privacy, Software product development, User groups, Microsoft Windows XP (Operating system), Electronic Privacy Information Center, Microsoft Passport (Systems/data security software)

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U.S. sues Microsoft over PC browser: move to restrict bundling with Windows 95 hits key market strategy

Article Abstract:

The Justice Department has filed a federal lawsuit against Microsoft, challenging Microsoft's mandatory bundling of its Windows 95 software with its Explorer Internet browser. A successful suit could threaten Microsoft's market influence, which hinges on adding new features to its OS. The complaint holds that Microsoft, since 1995, has applied the Internet browser mandate to all PC manufacturers that license Windows 95. Microsoft and the government reached a settlement in 1995, after the government charged Microsoft with illegal exploitation of its monopoly over OSes. The latest legal issue will examine whether the Microsoft OS and Internet browser are separate products or one integral product. The government says Microsoft is taking steps to weaken browser competitors, especially Netscape. The Justice Department has asked the court to fine Microsoft $1 million a day until it reverses its bundling arrangements. Microsoft's Windows OS operates around 85% of PCs in the US.

Internet access software, Web browser, Web browsers, Government Regulation

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U.S. adds to case vs. Microsoft and Gates; illegal pressure on Apple, Intel, others alleged; chairman's role noted

Article Abstract:

Microsoft Chmn Bill Gates played a prominent role in pressuring Apple, Intel and other companies to halt new technologies and limit competition, according to new antitrust claims by the Justice Department and 20 states. The government said these new allegations had strengthened its landmark case against Microsoft scheduled to begin Sep 23, 1998, especially the charge that Microsoft conspired to divide the Internet software market with Netscape. Gates said he first learned of the Jun 1995 meeting between Microsoft and Netscape through an article published by The Wall Street Journal in Aug 1998, but the government said he received E-mail messages from Microsoft executives prior to and after the meeting. The government's filing blasts Microsoft for its denial despite the documents, as well as its executives's substantial lack of recall. Microsoft defended Gates, saying the government is accusing him of failure to recall the specifics of one of 150,000 E-mail messages sent to him since 1994.

Computer Software, Software Publishers, Gates, Bill, United States. Department of Justice. Antitrust Division, Market domination, Market share, Litigation, Lawsuit/litigation, Antitrust Issue

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