'Innocent' files can carry a virus
Article Abstract:
A new type of virus, called the 'Word concept virus,' demonstrates just how easy it is to create and spread a virus. The virus takes advantage of the macros built into Microsoft's Word word processing software. A macro is a program executed by a single command. The Word virus is activated as soon as a user opens an infected file. The virus then infects Word and all files created in Word. Microsoft is posting a cure for the virus on the World Wide Web at http://www.microsoft.com and on Compuserve and Delphi. Users may check for the virus by opening the Tools menu and clicking on Macros. The files AAZAAO and AAAZFS indicates that Word is infected. The Word virus does little harm; it simply forces all documents to be saved as templates. Macro capabilities exist in most spreadsheet or word processing software, and a relatively computer-literate person can create one in an evening. Unlike previous viruses, this one is not limited to any particular system or operating platform.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1995
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Even Microsoft's Internet browser defends itself
Article Abstract:
Microsoft is going online to defend the bundling of its Internet Explorer browser software and Windows 95 OS. The software giant has been sued by the Justice Department for violating a 1994 consent decree with the Government, allegedly forcing manufacturers to include Internet Explorer on every Windows machine sold. The headline on a recent Internet Explorer entry reads: 'D.O.J.'s Request for New Court Order Shows Internet Explorer is Integrated.' This entry also contained quotes from Microsoft advocates and Government opponents, without reporting criticism from trade publications such as Cnet and PC Week. Microsoft now considers Internet Explorer to be an 'integrated product' that does not apply to the consent decree's terms, although users can uninstall the software. What's more, Windows 95 retail versions include Internet Explorer on a separate disk that requires separate installation.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1998
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Web browsers, Beta versions or not
Article Abstract:
Netscape Communications was one of the first companies to prosper by offering beta versions of its Web browsers over the Internet. By doing so, the company was able to create an enthusiastic customer base. On Jun 11, 1997, Netscape introduced Netscape Communicator 4.0, claiming that it was the final version. However, the company already has plans for versions 4.01a and 4.02. Microsoft released its browser in a similar way. The Internet Explorer's official release version was 3.0, yet version 3.01, 3.01a and 3.02 quickly followed. Microsoft's Internet Explorer 4.0 has several new features such as the ability to brows the network and hard drive. Push technology on both Microsoft and Netscape's browsers is still in beta testing and does not yet work properly.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: Business, general
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1997
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