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Congress Bill Focuses On Spyware
Chris Richardson
Contributing Writer
2005-01-27
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The US government is in the news with a bill against the makers and distributors of spyware, something long overdue, in my opinion. Hopefully, the bill can make its way through the approval process, provided it actually protects...
 | | Congress Eyes Spyware |  |
Speaking of protection, be sure and check out Microsoft's latest anti-piracy stand. It should make for some interesting times for non-valid Windows users.
Congress Turning Its Attention To Spyware
The United States government has decided they've had enough of spyware and all of the fun it causes. And who can blame them? A bill sponsored in part by Mary Bono, is targeting spyware and spyware makers. According to Wired.com:
The bill aims to prevent spyware purveyors from hijacking a homepage or tracking users' keystrokes. It also requires that spyware programs be easily identifiable and removable, and allows for the collection of personal information only after express consent from users. The bill exponentially increases fines against abusers as well, authorizing the Federal Trade Commission to fine violators up to $3 million per infraction.
Easily identifiable and removable? What a concept. How this hasn't happened sooner is a mystery, (to me at least). Hopefully, the bill passes without too much delay.
Read the Spy Act bill.
Microsoft Introduces Windows Genuine Advantage
In their effort to combat software piracy, Bill Gates, Inc. has announced the Windows Genuine Advantage program. WGA was designed to reduce, if not eliminate, the amount of pirated copies of Windows.
Essentially, through the process of validation, Microsoft is not going to offer support for what is deemed as pirated copies of their software. This is how it works:
Validation is a short process that enables you to verify that your copy of Windows is genuine. If you request a genuine Windows download from the Microsoft Download Center, you will be prompted to complete the validation process. You may choose not to validate your Windows and still obtain your requested download. However, validating now will enable faster access to the Download Center in the future when validation may be required. After successful validation, a Microsoft Windows Download Key will be stored on your system for future use.
Users determined as using pirated copies of Windows will not be able to download updates or patches from Microsoft. Windows Genuine Advantage, while active now, is expected to become Microsoft's official stance by the second half of 2005. For more information, read the WGA FAQ.
Crackdown On Internet Pedophilia
Since the Internet has been a haven for those seeking child pornography, many task forces have been created to combat and punish those involved with perpetuating pedophilia.
With constant vigilance required to catch those involved, preventive efforts are in constant demand. Because of this, a task force featuring members of the police and technology community have joined together to launch a Web site children can use to report suspected pedophiles, online or otherwise. According to the BBC:
Microsoft and AOL will put a link on their websites to the Virtual Global Task Force (VGTF), which is run by international law enforcement agencies and where police officers will be able to gather evidence.
Vodafone and BT have joined the UK's National Crime Squad (NCS) as partner agencies.
Computer Worm Suspect Arrested In Spain
According to Sophos.com, Spanish authorities have arrested a 20-year-old man in suspicion of creation and distribution of the Tasin computer worm. Sophos reports:
The Tasin worm (also known as W32/Anzae) spread via email in November 2004. According to police it infected thousands of computers in Spain and South America (in particular Chile and Peru).
A Spanish police investigation team began "Operation Astigi" to hunt down the creator of the worm in late 2004, finding clues hidden inside the code which gave the worm's author's internet pseudonym. The suspect's identity has not been revealed, other than his initials: A.R.B.
Evidently, when the man was arrested, police found press clippings about the worm and its infections.
About the Author:
Chris Richardson is a search engine writer for WebProNews. Visit WebProNews for the latest search news.
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