Google launches Deskbar

Search engine Google has introduced another tool to its ever increasing suite of search-based functions. The Deskbar is designed to provide instant results without having to fire up a browser. The Windows-only application resides in the Windows taskbar. ...more

AppleShare IP upgraded

AppleShare IP, Apple's server management software, has been upgraded. Version 6.3. ...more

EU considers mandatory logging of electronic communications

The EU is discussing whether to introduce mandatory logging of phone calls, emails and other electronic communications for up to one year. The European Commission believes such a law would help combat the threat of terrorism, but rejected a request by France, Ireland, the UK and Sweden to order records to be kept for three to four years. The Commissioner for information society and media, Viviane Reding, said that this would prove too costly for phone companies and ISPs. ...more

Consumer Minister announces rules to stamp out email scams

Minister announces new anti-scam rules to protect businesses and consumers. The European Union is to bring in new measures to combat email scams. The Consumer Protection Co-operation (CPC) regulations were announced by Consumer Minister Ian McCartney who said the new rules will 'help tackle rogue traders who prey on consumers across European borders'. ...more

Content owners pursue DRM despite Sony climbdown

Despite mounting consumer gripes about DRM, music fans and film buffs can expect to see more restrictive digital rights technologies attached to the songs and movies they buy, technology industry observers said at a conference here dedicated to the future of digital media. The controversy around DRM hit a crescendo late last year after it emerged major music label Sony BMG copy-protected millions of CDs of its top artists with a technology that left consumers vulnerable to hackers if they played the disc on their computers. Sony admitted it sold 2. ...more