contributed by Evil Wench
Norton AntiVirus 2000 on Windows 95/98/NT has a security hole that is scarier than the viruses it is supposed to protect against. The problem is when the program attempts to scan incoming mail in real time. It does this by opening a TCP port to act as a POP Server proxy while mail is downloaded. This extra TCP port could then be targeted by malicious users to gain access to your system. Symantec has said that they will not fix this problem as they do not see it as a 'bug or security flaw'.

MSNBC

contributed by Mikko
While F-Secure Corporation has seen no increase in virus activity as we approach the new year they have instituted a Virus Watch program to help allay fears. The Virus Watch program will be manned 24 hours a day from December 31 to January 3, at their offices around the world.

F-Secure Press Release (FsecureY2Kwatch.html)

contributed by Evil Wench
While running around the net and defacing web sites, like script kiddies do, a few of them have left messages asking others not to deface web sites on New Years Day. When John Koskinen pleaded with cyber intruders not to test the security of systems on New Years Day we think it can be assumed that he was not referring to people who deface web sites. However, every little bit helps. (If anyone thinks that there will be no defaced web sites on Jan 1, Wake Up!)

ZD Net

contributed by Arik
Evidently road sensors to monitor traffic are to expensive and unable to generate comprehensive, reliable information so the states of Maryland and Virginia will be testing a new system to generate traffic reports by tracking cell phone users. This is the first project to use the FCC mandated feature that cell phone companies have the capability of providing a user's location as soon as an emergency call is placed. It is hoped that this experiment will be able to predict real time traffic flowing in the Beltway area. This project is not designed to encourage or condone cell phone use while driving because doing so is dangerous to your self and those around you.

Washington Post
Associated Press - via ABC News

contributed by Evil Wench
Expert state officials in Oregon have stated that criminal computer activity has increased over the last few weeks including attempted break-ins of the states computers. They feel that this is related to the upcoming holiday and have issued a statewide warning. Oregon's Department of Administrative Services is working closely with the state police Cyber Crimes Unit to catch the perpetrators of the attacks. (Talk about jumping on the Y2K bandwagon.)

Yahoo News - Anyone have a better link?