Science and Technology Weblog

Chip and PIN is a UK government-backed security measure that requires customers to present both a four-digit PIN and a bank card containing a smart chip in order to complete a purchase. Backers argued that the system offers a much higher level of security than previous schemes. Also, they claimed that because the PIN must be present before purchases can be made, consumers should be held liable for fraudulent purchases. Two researchers, however, demonstrated last month how to hack into a card reader and hijack it into playing the video game Tetris.

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Microsoft Excel users should avoid opening or saving any file attachments sent via e-mail if the message is not from a trusted source or arrives unexpectedly, the company said following public reports of zero day attacks exploiting a flaw in the spreadsheet program. Security firm Secunia ranks the vulnerability as extremely critical because it can allow a hacker to remotely gain access to a user’s computer system. To launch an attack, a user must first open a malicious Office file sent by e-mail or otherwise provided to them via the Internet.

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Wondering where to find the nearest publicly available WiFi Internet access? Our global directory of 87,000 locations in 26 countries is a terrific tool for mobile computer users.