This past year has been horrible for those who use Windows machines and those stuck on the same network as them, as anyone in academia or working at an ISP (and even some non-tech companies) knows. Even SP2 is not safe. It's primarily due to design issues. I also have a link to a file which will crash windows when displayed (yes, if you save it on the desktop it will crash on login). Thankfully the season of new computers has prompted some articles about it. Some are just informative, and provide references on how bad it is, how fast a Windows computer can get infected, and things people are trying to do to deal with it. Then there's how a computer person can deal with non-computer people and the "trojan horse under the tree". Then there's tips to pass along for everyone. That last link is one you may want to pass around a bit. For those contacted by people wanting computers you could always consider linux if it's someone who just uses email and browses the web or is very comfortable with computers. For users who will want to do other things or those new to computers, try here. Also, be wary of anyone pitching firewalls or software solutions - the market is driven by money (If you've been to a Microsoft conference recently, you've hopefully noticed that they've "partnered" with Trend Micro on everything). For business users, think of it in terms of cost. Hopefully some of you guys find that useful, and at least pass along some tips to your less computer savvy friends and relatives. Please? I really don't like removing them from the network/reporting them to their ISP.

• Apparently MN is a geeky state. 57.5% of rural MN uses the net and 27% has broadband.
• If if you can't manage to figure out an excuse on your own, I think you'd be too confused by the message to use the escape-a-date message.
• And in another PR move, they want to ban spam on phones. Too bad most spam doesn't come from the US...
• XP SP2. "The idea is that if users have to actively give permission for programs to interact with their computers, there is less chance they will be hit by a virus or inadvertently allow malicious software that can monitor computer activities." Um, what? Given that half the recent onces have involved saving and opening a password protected zip file after disabling the virus scanner which is stopping them, I doubt clicking OK will do much good. Hopefully it'll prevent some of the further effects though.
• Again with the thing, MS is pushing automatic updates. And they provide phone support for people, not listed but likely 866-PC-SAFETY like before. And remember that's 866, as most users who need it would probably follow the instructions at 800-. The combination may be a good way to help get some computer problems away though.
• Look at the third paragraph here. And then never complain when someone outside Microsoft adds the $ in place of the s. Also that link could be handy. People put undue trust in big companies - use it to your advantage. They also have one on spyware.
• And not again... One person who was notified works in an unrelated area on the campus and is aware of the applicable laws (the ones cited in the letter) - which only require disclosure if the data is not encrypted. Oops.

OK, enough for now...