Friday, April 22, 2005
Friday 4.22.05 MultiplePlatforms.com Tech News Blog
Multiple Platforms.comOur goal is to inform you about the tech news, tools, and techniques to help your Apple, Windows, and Linux operating systems work together for you!
Please visit our web site for the links to these stories and more.
Tech News Blog
4.22.05
Upcoming Earth Day Prompts Computer Makers Green Streak
While some computer makers trumpeted their green ways (Dell, HP, and others), another popular platform (Apple) took some heavy hits from environmental groups:
Tech giants boost recycling efforts
On the eve of Earth Day, Dell and Hewlett-Packard discount programs for reducing electronic waste.
Photos: For old PCs, the end comes in pieces [CNET News.com]
Jobs defends Apple's record on environment
As protesters picket the computer maker over its recycling policy, Apple's CEO calls the criticism misplaced.
Photo: Lobbying for a green Apple [CNET News.com]
Meanwhile, The Mean Streak Still Lingers
In the ever-increasing rhetoric regarding which platform is the best, the Apple chief has added another two cents worth:
Apple's Jobs swipes at Longhorn
Blog: As an avid softball player, I know that when you get a nice flat pitch, you swing for the fences. Apple Computer CEO... [CNET News.com]
More Suggestions For Greening Up Computer Users
PC World has some great suggestions for recycling your tech toys in keeping with the recognition of Earth Day:
Easy Ways to Recycle Old PCs and Cell Phones--Really!
Safely getting rid of all your dead or outdated technology: We show you how simple it can be. [PCWorld.com - Latest News Stories]
One More Update for Apple Users
Apple has released another update, OS X 10.3.9 and that improves or corrects Java and security issues. This patch may fix your problems if you are experiencing ßafter installing the latest update from Apple. This is why I try to remind you that most IT gurus that are not associated with a operating system provider suggest you wait five to seven days after the release of an update before you installing. To learn more about this latest repair, click on the link for MacNN:
Apple releases Java Update for Mac OS X 10.3.9
Apple today release Java Update for Mac OS X 10.3.9 via its web site and the Mac OS X Software Update.. [MacNN]
RealPlayer Update Still Making Headlines
The update available for users of RealPlayer is still at the top of the headlines for most tech news sources; make sure you download and implement this patch if you use RealPlayer. Accelerate Your Mac is featuring the following article:
Mac RealPlayer/RealOnePlayer Updates (Security related fixes)...
Mac RealPlayer/RealOnePlayer Updates (Security related fixes) [AccelerateYourMac News Headlines]
Tiger a Tad Early
MacFixIt is reporting that some lucky Apple customers are receiving their pre-ordered copies of Tiger, the new operating system for Macheads; I pre-ordered a copy from Apple but I'm still waiting. Meanwhile, MacFixIt has more suggestions regarding the patch from Apple noted above and you can read more by clicking on the following links:
Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger) arriving in users' hands
Several MacFixIt readers are reporting that they are receiving their pre-ordered copies of Mac OS X 10.4 (Tiger), a full eight days ahead of schedule. One reader writes: "Appar [MacFixIt]
Mac OS X 10.3.9 (#6): Terminal fix for Safari Java issues; Problems starting Classic (cont.); more
Safari 1.3 Terminal fix for Java issues Since the release of Mac OS X 10.3.9, we've been covering significant issues with Java -- both in Safari and in Java [MacFixIt] 
Problems With iPod Shuffle USB Connection
Another report from MacFixIt today addresses problems experienced by some iPod Shuffle owners when using certain USB connections and if this has been annoying you, read more about the subject here:
iPod Shuffle: Only recognized when connected to specific USB port
Yesterday we noted one reader's issue where the iPod Shuffle is only recognized by his Mac mini when the device is plugged into a certain USB port. We've now received reports from more readers, wi [MacFixIt]
Open Source Updates
Secunia released the following bulletins: Slackware (1, 2, 3, 4), Gentoo, Debian, KDE, and Trustix.
Tip of the Day From Multiple Platforms.com: Helpful Web Sites
We wrap-up this week of suggestions for helpful web sites with a new URL for Leo Laporte, The Tech Guy On KFI: www.leo.am/. Leo answers questions on all things digital on KFI AM640 in the Los Angeles area from 11 am to 2 pm on the weekends. You can also listen to Leo via the Internet stream, just visit The Tech Guy’s web site and click on the KFI logo.
Who is Leo Laporte?
According to Leo’s bio on his web site, “Currently Leo hosts a radio technology talk show on KFI AM 640, Los Angeles every Saturday and Sunday from 11am to 2pm, and Call for Help, a daily hour-long television show produced in Toronto and aired throughout Canada. He also appears regularly on many television and radio programs including Live with Regis and Kelly.
He also continues to write. This year Que introduced The Leoville Press. The first four volumes in the press are in bookstores now: ‘Leo Laporte's 2005 Technology Almanac,’ ‘Leo Laporte's 2005 Gadget Guide,’ ‘Leo Laporte's 2005 Mac Gadget Guide,’ and ‘Leo Laporte's Guide to Tivo.’ Leo Laporte's Holiday Gift Guide, a magazine published by Curtis, is on newsstands now.”
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Thursday, April 21, 2005
Thursday 4.21.05 MultiplePlatforms.com Tech News Blog
Multiple Platforms.comOur goal is to inform you about the tech news, tools, and techniques to help your Apple, Windows, and Linux operating systems work together for you!
Please visit our web site for the links to these stories and more.
Tech News Blog
4.21.05
RealPlayer User Need Patch
If you use RealPlayer, you should update your application ASAP to prevent crackers from exploiting a flaw graded 'highly critical. Secunia and eWeek both have reports regarding the bug and the fix for the same:
High-Risk RealPlayer Hole Patched
The buffer overflow flaw affects multiple versions of the media player and could open the door for code execution attacks. [eWEEK Technology News] Realplayer/RealOne RAM File Processing Buffer Overflow Vulnerability
Piotr Bania has reported a vulnerability in Realplayer and RealOne, which can be exploited by malicious people to compromise a user's system. [Secunia - Latest Secunia Security Advisories]
Google Tool Will Story Search History
According to PC World, Google has released a new tool that will store your personal search history. Your history will be protected by a password and stored on Googles servers.
Google Feature Logs Users' Histories
Password-protected My Search History stores search results on Google servers. [PCWorld.com - Latest News Stories]
Firewire Creates Problems for New Apple Update
MacFixIt has more suggestions for those experiencing problems with the latest update from Apple. Remember to close all applications, disconnect any Firewire devices, and repair permissions using Disk Utility (accessed through Applications/ Utilities) before and after installing updates. Check out the following from MacFixIt for more on this subject:
Mac OS X 10.3.9 (#5): FireWire drive mounting problems; More Safari fixes; Firefox; LimeWire; more
FireWire drive mounting problems As reported yesterday, a number of users are reporting problems mounting FireWire drives after updating to Mac OS X 10.3.9. In some cases, this issue can be [MacFixIt]
Lance Armstrong Will Retire After Tour
Lance Armstrong has announced he will no longer race bicycles against some of the greatest athletes in the world, but he will continue his battle against cancer and you can help; order your Livestrong bracelets by clicking on the link on the left side of this page and support the Lance Armstrong Foundation.
Armstrong Says He’ll Call It Quits After Tour De France
April 18, 2005 3:48 p.m. EST
JASEN LEE, All Headline News Staff Writer
Atlanta, GA (AHN) – Confirming what he has been eluding to for months, Lance Armstrong officially announces he will retire after competing in the 2005 Tour de France. [All Headline News]
Wednesday, April 20, 2005
Wednesday 4.20.05 MultiplePlatforms.com Tech News Blog
Multiple Platforms.comOur goal is to inform you about the tech news, tools, and techniques to help your Apple, Windows, and Linux operating systems work together for you!
Please visit our web site for the links to these stories and more.
Tech News Blog
4.20.05
Sober Worm Returnth
Maybe it was never really gone, but according to security experts, the Sober worm is making a return visit and this time the crackers are after the e-mail addresses of all your friends. The subject line includes the following: "I've got your e-mail on my account". Check out the following article for more information:
Sober worm makes a comeback
Mass-mailing pest is spreading again, harvesting e-mail addresses for spammers, security companies have warned. [CNET News.com - Security]
Getting Scrubbed Ain't Easy
CNET is running a story about the difficulties of scrubbing a hard drive before disposal. If you're considering dumping an old hard drive, read this item first:
Skeletons on your hard drive
It's a tough task to clean every scrap of information--including sensitive data--off discarded PC drives, experts say.
In This Corner: AOL Takes on Phishing Sites
Stepping up to the plate in the battle to stem phishing attempts, AOL will begin to identify and block web sites that are created by crackers to extract you secure information. PC World has this on the subject:
AOL Fights Phishing
Internet giant begins a campaign to identify and block fraudulent Web sites. [PCWorld.com - Latest News Stories]
Apple Has Another Update
Apple released another update on Tuesday, this one to patch a glitch with iSync. For more information on this issue click on the following story:
About Security Update 2005-004
Release date: Tue, 19 Apr 2005 17:35:20 -0500 [Apple Computer Top Mac OS X Documents]
Apple releases Security Update 2005-004
Hot on the heels of Mac OS X 10.3.9, Apple has released Security Update 2005-004, which fixes buffer overflow in iSync could lead to local privilege escalation. Apple's description reads [MacFixIt]
Next PeoplesChoice Could Be the IRS
According to a report from Reuters, the Internal Revenue Service has a database ripe for the picking and millions of American tax payers might be at risk if the holes aren't plugged soon:
IRS Flaws Expose Taxpayers to Snooping, Study Finds
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Computer-security flaws at the U.S. tax-collection agency expose millions of taxpayers to potential identity theft or illegal police snooping, according to a congressional report released on Monday. [Reuters: Technology]
Flaw in Netscape
Secunia is warning Netscape 7.x users of two bugs graded ‘ßmoderately critical’ that can allow crackers to remotely control your PC. The solution according to Secunia is: “Disable JavaScript support and do not install untrusted search plugins.”
Open Source Updates
Open source users have the following updates available according to Secunia: Fedora, SuSE, Red Hat (1, 2), Gentoo (1,), and Debian (1, 2).
Tip of the Day From Multiple Platforms.com: Helpful Web Sites
Today our tip is a link to Consumer.gov/, a web site devoted to helping the consumers in the United States find details on all things that are consumer related; this site is a virtual clearing house of links for the consumer.
What is Consumer.gov?
According to the Consumer.gov web site, “FirstGov for Consumers -- is a "one-stop" link to a broad range of federal information resources available online. It is designed so that you can locate information by category -- such as Food, Health, Product Safety, Your Money, and Transportation. Each category has subcategories to direct you to areas within individual federal web sites containing related information.”
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Tuesday, April 19, 2005
Tuesday 4.19.05 MultiplePlatforms.com Tech News Blog
Multiple Platforms.comOur goal is to inform you about the tech news, tools, and techniques to help your Apple, Windows, and Linux operating systems work together for you!
Please visit our web site for the links to these stories and more.
Tech News Blog
4.19.05
Screen Saver Fans Rejoice: Podcast of The Gang is Back
If you were a fan of the old Screen Savers, you are going to be glad to hear that a podcast of the gang will be available weekly. Leo Laporte, Patrick Norton, Kevin Rose, and the lab master Robert Herron are starting a program to judge interest and this effort may evolve into a new show available by cable or the Internet, depending upon opportunities. To download the podcast visit The Laporte Report:
The Revenge of the Bleep
It is done. The first ROTSS has been posted. Subscribe to the podcast to get it by midnight every Sunday, press the play button to the left, or download it directly.
[The Laporte Report]
Reminder: Update Firefox and Mozilla
A follow-up on our report from yesterday: make sure you update your Firefox and/or Mozilla browsers to keep your PC safe. PC World has the following regarding the update:
Security Holes Bite Firefox
Mozilla Foundation patches eight flaws, six of which also affect Mozilla suite. [PCWorld.com - Latest News Stories]
Some Problems Reported With Apple Update
MacFixIt is reporting that some Mac-heads are experiencing problems with the new update from Apple, OS X 10.3.9/. The Safari update is causing the most annoyances and MacFixIt suggests re-installing the patch issue by Apple previously for Java, I have also included a link CNET's story regarding this issue:
Java glitch hits OS X update
Recent update causes Java-related headaches for some Mac owners, Apple has acknowledged. [CNET News.com]
Mac OS X 10.3.9 (#3): Fixes for Safari crashes, slow performance; Multiple user account issues, solutions; more
Safari 1.3 Re-applying Security Update 2005-002 for launch problems, crashes Two workarounds have been most consistently able to solve major problems (for som [MacFixIt]
Speed Up to Safari
Caution: Read the item above before jumping on this next story. According to MacMinute, the speed of Safari is greatly improved with the latest update from Apple, OS X 10.3.9. The source MacMinute quotes claims that the speed of Safari has increased by thirty-five percent:
Safari gets major performance boost, other improvements
While undocumented in the release notes, last week's Mac OS X 10.3.9 update includes a new version of Safari that brings substantially improved page load times... [MacMinute]
Open Source Updates
Secunia has announced the following bulletins open source systems: Gentoo (1, 2), Debian, Mandrake, Fedora (1, 2), SuSE, and Sun Solaris.
Tip of the Day from Multiple Platforms.com
Another web site today that provides useful information for a variety of products is the Consumer Information Center a part of the FCIC (see below for definition); they even have a section for computers with a free tip on online security.
What is the FCIC?
The Federal Citizen Information Center provides this definition for FCIC, “
For over 30 years, the Federal Citizen Information Center (FCIC) has been a trusted one-stop source for answers to questions about consumer problems and government services. Consumers can get the information they need in three ways: by calling toll-free 1 (800) FED-INFO, through printed publications, or through information posted on FCIC’s family of websites: www.firstgov.gov;
www.pueblo.gsa.gov; www.kids.gov; www.consumeraction.gov/.
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Monday, April 18, 2005
Monday 4.18.05 Multiple Platforms.com Tech News Blog
Multiple Platforms.comOur goal is to inform you about the tech news, tools, and techniques to help your Apple, Windows, and Linux operating systems work together for you!
Please visit our web site for the links to these stories and more.
Tech News Blog
4.18.05
Secunia Warns of 'Highly Critical' Flaw in Mozilla/Firefox
Secunia has released security bulletins graded 'Highly Critical' for the popular Mozilla family of browsers, Firefox and Mozilla (0.x to 1.7.x). The solution for both issues involves updating your browser to the latest version. I also included a story from eWeek regarding the latest versions of both browsers from Mozilla:
New Firefox, Mozilla Versions Plug Critical Security Holes
Third critical security update in less than two months fixes nine bugs in Firefox. [eWEEK Technology News]
Mozilla Multiple Vulnerabilities
Multiple vulnerabilities have been reported in Firefox, which can be exploited by malicious people to conduct cross-site scripting attacks, bypass certain security restrictions, and compromise a user's system. [Secunia - Latest Secunia Security Advisories]
Mozilla Firefox Multiple Vulnerabilities
Multiple vulnerabilities have been reported in Firefox, which can be exploited by malicious people to conduct cross-site scripting attacks, bypass certain security restrictions, and compromise a user's system. [Secunia - Latest Secunia Security Advisories]
Microsoft Will Bombard Airwaves
If you think that advertisement for political contests starts prematurely, then you will love Microsoft’s new ad campaign that will celebrate the 20th anniversary of Windows 15 months early:
Microsoft plans massive Windows ad campaign
Advertising campaign will last for 15 months as Microsoft gears up for 20th anniversary of Windows. [CNET News.com]
Apple Releases One More Patch
Apple has released an update for their Panther operating system, OS X 10.3.9 and as usual, you might want to wait five to seven days before installing this fix from Apple. To help you learn more about this issue, I have included headlines and links to the following stories:
About the security content of the Mac OS X 10.3.9 Update
Release date: Fri, 15 Apr 2005 18:18:16 -0500 [Apple Computer Top Mac OS X Documents]
Mac OS X 10.3.9 (#3): Fixes for Safari crashes, slow performance; Multiple user account issues, solutions; Third-party applicati
Safari 1.3 Re-applying Security Update 2005-002 for launch problems, crashes Two workarounds have been most consistently able to solve major problems (for som [MacFixIt]
Mac OS X Security Update Fixes Multiple Vulnerabilities
Apple has issued an update for Mac OS X, which fixes various vulnerabilities. [Secunia - Latest Secunia Security Advisories]
Open Source Updates
Secunia released the following bulletins for open source users: Gentoo (1, 2), Debian (1, 2), and SuSE.
Tip of the Day from Multiple Platforms.com: Helpful Web Sites
Last week the link Multiple Platforms provided for the Internal Revenue Service was a popular click-through and served as inspiration for this weeks tips from Multiple Platforms.com/, helpful web sites for you; today we feature a link to the United States Product Safety Commission. This web site lists products that are the subject of recent recalls and provides links to many useful sites with safety associated themes.
What is the CSPC?
According to Wikipedia, “The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is an independent agency of the U.S. federal government created in 1972 to protect “against unreasonable risks of injuries associated with consumer products”. As of 2004 its chairman is Hal Stratton.
The CSPC has the authority to regulate the sale and manufacture of most consumer products, with the exception of those regulated by other agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).”
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