Friday, May 5, 2000

New I LOVE YOU Variants -- 12:48 pm CST, Update by A.T. Hun

Since the I LOVE YOU virus/worm was written in VB script, some people are modifying it to create their own versions of the virus, which will likely spread as fast as the original. A ZDNet columnist is calling for everyone to stop using Microsoft Outlook since its lack of security is what leads to things like this and Melissa. Here's a snip from the ZDNet article:

I'm on record as saying that Outlook is a security hole that also happens to be an e-mail client. If this mess doesn't convince of you of that, I don't know what I can do. Just like Melissa, ILOVEYOU only transmits itself to others if you're running Outlook. If it weren't for the fundamental flaws of Outlook having minimal security and its too-close integration with Windows, we wouldn't have a Melissa or an ILOVEYOU at all.

Now, a Microsoft security spokesperson is saying that while Microsoft is working closely with antivirus companies, it doesn't have any plans to issue a patch or security warning. Thanks guys, good of you to pick up the ball like that.

I have to laugh at some of the comments underneath this article. Some have the audacity to say that it is because stupid users read email attachments that the problem occurs. Umm, hello? Why should a mail reader give ANY incoming script immediate and total control of the whole system? That's a security hole big enough to drive Bill Gates' wallet through! In the name of making things slightly easier for users, they have made all their systems far more vulnerable. I'm getting really irritated about this whole thing. Maybe all the lawyers that will be unleashed on M$ after the antitrust trial will get them to wake up . . . but I doubt it. Thanks Stomped.

News for 05/05/2000

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