Mozilla tests improved Firefox

Mozilla has begun testing builds of Firefox that include a new spatial navigation feature. This lets users navigate links in Web pages using the cursor keys; links are selected based on their relative visual positions. The feature was initially developed for Minimo, Mozilla's browser for portable devices and may become a default accessibility tool in future Firefox releases. ...more

Organised crime suspected of new IE-related spamming attacks

Hackers have exploited a recently discovered but as yet unpatched security flaw in Microsoft's Internet Explorer 6 to spread malicious software via websites. According to various reports, organised crime groups have broken into Web servers running Microsoft Internet Information Server (IIS) and installed a script on thousands of websites which then installs software on any visitor to the site. This software enables the infected PC to be used to relay spam email. ...more

Microsoft signs up first European protocol licensee

Microsoft has announced that Quest will be the first company to license server protocols under the terms of the European Commission' March 2004 antitrust ruling. Quest, which makes tools for database, applications and Windows management, will have access to the communications protocols that are implemented in Windows Server Operating Systems and used by a Windows Work Group Server to deliver group and user administration services. The EU ruling required Microsoft license these protocols on 'reasonable and non-discriminatory terms'. ...more

Internet child porn clampdown

The Internet Watch Foundation has drawn up a list of 76 Internet newsgroups it wants ISPs to remove from its servers and newsfeeds. Of these, 51 sites 'regularly carry child abuse images' and 25 'appear to advertise or advocate paedophilia'. The IWF is not disclosing the names of the groups, but will supply them to ISPs. ...more

More details of new Aibo

Sony's latest addition to its range of robot dogs has been revealed and this time the cyberpup has a built-in camera and can imitate human voices. The second-generation Aibo, called the ERS-210, is styled on a lion cub and will be able to respond to commands given by its owner. The robo dog has a camera in its nose and will be able to snap those special occasions. ...more