Smart cards are open to new attack by hackers, say Israeli researchers

Article Abstract:

Smart cards are vulnerable to tampering, according to two Israeli researchers. Smart cards are promoted as a tamper-proof solution for computer security. They are expected to be widely used in the US for cash transactions, identity authentication, and access to buildings or equipment. The problem is not expected to be wide-spread because breaching the cards' security requires an in-depth knowledge of cryptography technology. The researchers used Differential Fault Analysis to break the Digital Encryption Standard, one of the most common cryptographic formulas. The technique causes a card to commit an error by subjecting it to microwave radiation or ionizing, then comparing faulty results with accurate results. The card can be easily counterfeited once the key is identified. Deployment of the cards is expected to continue, despite the security concerns, with two billion smart cards in circulation by the end of the century.

Magnetic Cards, Magnetic and Optical Recording Media Manufacturing, Electronic components, not elsewhere classified, Safety and security measures, Data security, Data security issue, Smart cards, Smart card

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Microsoft, allies get wary response from TV industry; strategy for digital broadcasts fails to immediately thrill broadcasters

Article Abstract:

Microsoft and its PC industry allies are developing technology to make PCs more compatible with digital television, and are trying to attract broadcasters to their vision of the home entertainment industry. Thus far, however, broadcasters are both skeptical of PC-TV convergence and fearful of seismic industry changes. Microsoft's recent $425 million purchase of WebTV Networks, and joint Microsoft-Intel-Compaq PC to TV integration technologies are part of an industry-wide trend. Broadcasters see PC makers as potentially siphoning off advertising and manufacturing revenues and are resentful of a perceived arrogance in the computer industry. A standards debate is raging over display formats; the broadcasting industry is backing the conventional interlaced format, while the PC industry is promoting the progressive scan format, which is better for text and leaves space on the channel for Web-like interactive enhancements.

Radio and Television Broadcasting, Radio & TV Broadcasting, Innovations, Computer industry, Microcomputers, Forecasts and trends, Industry trend, Broadcasting industry, Broadcasting, Intel-compatible system, x86 compatible computers, Digital television

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All together; many sites aim to create virtual communities. But a community is more than a Web address

Article Abstract:

Virtual communities are becoming a social gathering place for many people, in place of the pub, cafe or church where friends gather at the end of the day. Several start-up companies are interested in the profit these on-line meeting places could provide. Third Age Media has created a Web site that is geared toward individuals over age 50. The site focuses on grandparenting, gardening, travel, finance and offers several support groups for its users. For an on-line community to be successful it has to have at least four or five of the six basic principles required in any healthy community. The six areas include effort, identity, purpose, adaptive, freedom and organic, or having a life of its own.

Usage, Internet, World Wide Web, Social issue, Social conditions, Information management, Information accessibility

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