Security threats Toolkit

Story: Spammers get fussy as zombie army grows

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How odd... I have 5 systems here and 10 more to maintain at work, all of which are routinely updated through Microsoft's Windows and Office update sites. None has ever gotten spyware installed from such a visit. A cookie or two, perhaps, but not actual 'call home' spyware.

One problem noted in the article, and a very good point to be driven home: new machines are vulnerable machines. Microsoft and the makers need to work out a better way of getting the needed updates onto machines sitting in boxes and on shelves. Perhaps providing an "addendum" CD to be used right after first-time power-up as part of the package (added by the reseller). But having the built in Win XP firewall active on power up will be some help.

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