[MikesWhatsNews] MWN #763 HackFix

MikesWhatsNews  14, 01, 2005
in today's issue #763

2       Malicious Software Removal Tool
3       Make Your Windows System Run Fast
4       Microsoft Windows HTML Help ActiveX Contol Cross-Domain Vulnerability
5       PC Setup Cheat Sheet 
6       Hitachi Introduces 500GB Drive 
7       Evolution Of A Programmer
8       CCC    Little Golden Books
9               Clip The Logo's Wings
10      SyncBack Freeware v3.2.6
11      Keep It Clean
HackFix Updates 
____________________________________________________________

NOTE: Any time you see the "  ++ ",  it means there is more 
          of the article, or story, on the linked site. Mike
____________________________________________________________

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___________________________________________________________
2
Malicious Software Removal Tool
Published: January 11, 2005
http://www.microsoft.com/security/malwareremove/default.mspx
The Microsoft Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool checks Windows XP,
Windows 2000, and Windows Server 2003 computers for and helps remove
infections by specific, prevalent malicious software?including Blaster,
Sasser, and Mydoom. When the detection and removal process is complete, the
tool displays a report describing the outcome, including which, if any,
malicious software was detected and removed.

Microsoft will release an updated version of this tool on the second Tuesday
of each month. New versions will be made available through this Web page,
Windows Update, and the Microsoft Download Center. 
++

Online version of this tool:
http://www.microsoft.com/security/malwareremove/default.mspx
This online tool scans your hard disk for viruses and tries to remove them. 
To proceed, click the Check My PC for Infection button. 
The site allows users to run the tool directly from a Web page at the site,
however, take note 
that even at that Web site only operating system currently supported by
Microsoft will work.
____________________________________________________________
3
Make Your Windows System Run Fast
http://users.accesscomm.ca/gbraun/wxp/
This site is a goldmine of practical information on how to keep your Windows
system running fast and problem-free.
There are separate sections for Windows 98 and XP with on-site hints and
tutorials and hundreds of links to other web
resources. A lot of  material here to digest but you will be well rewarded.

Thanks to Christy
____________________________________________________________
4
Microsoft Windows HTML Help ActiveX Contol Cross-Domain Vulnerability    
http://www.us-cert.gov/cas/techalerts/TA05-012B.html

Source: US-CERT Technical Cyber Security Alert TA05-012B    
  
Systems Affected
     * Windows 98, Me, 2000, XP, and Server 2003
     * Internet Explorer 5.x and 6.x
     * Other Windows programs that use MSHTML

Overview
   The Microsoft Windows HTML Help Activex control contains a
   cross-domain vulnerability that could allow an unauthenticated,
   remote attacker to execute arbitrary commands or code with the
   privileges of the user running the control. The HTML Help control
   can be instantiated by an HTML document loaded in Internet Explorer
   or any other program that uses MSHTML.
++ There is more on the web site.

Appendix A. References

     * Vulnerability Note VU#972415 -
       http://www.kb.cert.org/vuls/id/972415
 
     * Microsoft Security Bulletin MS05-001 -
       http://www.microsoft.com/technet/security/bulletin/ms05-001.mspx
 
     * HTML Help files do not work correctly after you uninstall security
       update 890175 (MS05-001) -
       http://support.microsoft.com/kb/892641
 
     * You cannot access HTML Help functionality on some Web sites after
       installing security update MS05-001 -
       http://support.microsoft.com/kb/892675

     * Reusing MSHTML -
       http://msdn.microsoft.com/workshop/browser/hosting/hosting.asp

     * HTML Help ActiveX Control Overview -
       <http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/default.asp?url=/library/en-us/
       htmlhelp/html/vsconocxov.asp>

     * Related Topics -
       <http://msdn.microsoft.com/library/default.asp?url=/library/en-us/
       htmlhelp/html/vsconocxrelatedtopics.asp>

     * About the Browser (Internet Explorer - WebBrowser) -
       <http://msdn.microsoft.com/workshop/browser/overview/Overview.asp>

     * CVE CAN-2004-1043 -
       <http://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CAN-2004-1043>
++
____________________________________________________________
5
PC Setup Cheat Sheet 
http://www.microsoft.com/athome/moredone/yournewpc.mspx
Tips and advice to get you started with your new PC
Published: December 27, 2004
By Robbin Young
Have you gone out and treated yourself (or someone you love) to a new
computer?or perhaps a new toy that hooks up to your old computer? If
you're like most of us, chances are you're excited?and you've probably got
some questions, too. Fortunately, with the advent of intelligent,
user-friendly technologies like USB and hardware auto-detect install,
setting up and maintaining your new PC and devices is an easier process than
it used to be.

That's especially true when you have resources like the ones on this page!
Here I've created a one-stop resource for most of the questions you might
have.
++
From; Microsoft
____________________________________________________________
6
Hitachi Introduces 500GB Drive 
http://www.hitachigst.com/hdd/support/7k500/7k500_ov.htm
 500 GB of capacity with either SATA II or Parallel ATA interface
The Deskstar 7K500 sustains the leadership momentum with a 25 percent
capacity increase over the previous generation and double the capacity in
the same space as a 250GB drive. A 2TB (terabyte) system can now be achieved
with just four standard form factor ATA drives. This capacity milestone
enhances system reliability by reducing the number of drives needed to
support the most demanding applications.
++
____________________________________________________________
7
Evolution Of A Programmer
http://www.ariel.com.au/jokes/The_Evolution_of_a_Programmer.html
Programmers will get a kick out of this artistic computer joke. It lays out
the evolution of a programmer's skill and career, from the primitive days
of Junior High all the way up to Chief Executive.

From; 332nd issue of the Cool Tricks and Trinkets Newsletter
Subscribe: mailto:cooltricks-join-request@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
____________________________________________________________
8
'Christy's Computer Corner'
  thanks to Christy;
http://www.1stpick.org

Little Golden Books

http://www.thesantis.com/home2.htm
If you're a baby boomer, you probably remember Little Golden Books from your
childhood. 
In fact, if you've had children of your own, you've probably read some of
them to your kids.

The Little Golden Books first appeared in 1942, and were sold in dime
stores, drug stores and food markets. Many writers and artists who first
appeared in LGB titles later gained fame for their work: 
Richard Scarry, Garth Williams, Margaret Wise Brown (writer of the famous
GOODNIGHT, MOON), and others. 
(One of my favorites, who's almost unknown today, is Tibor Gergely.)

There are a number of people who collect Little Golden Books. You can learn
more about LGBs from the Collecting Little Golden Books site, maintained by
Steve Santi, author of a book about collecting the series.

~~~~~~~~
9
Clip The Logo's Wings

If you're sick of that flying Windows logo that shows up each time you start
Windows 98, here's the cure:

1.   Click on Start and then choose Run.

2.   In the Run dialog box, type Notepad and press Enter.

3.   In the Notepad window, choose File, Open.

4.   In the dialog box, type msdos.sys and press Enter.

5.   In the msdos.sys file listing, find the [Options] section
and add: Logo=0

6.   Choose File + Save and then Exit the Notepad.

Now when you start Windows, you'll get right to work without the Windows
flying by.

Was this forwarded to you ?
Get your own subscription here:
<1stpickPCtips-request@xxxxxxxxxxxxx?Subject=subscribe>

____________________________________________________________
10
SyncBack Freeware v3.2.6
http://www.2brightsparks.com/syncback/syncback-hub.html
SyncBack is a powerful freeware program that helps you backup and
synchronise your files to: the same drive; a different drive or medium
(CDRW, CompactFlash, etc); an FTP server; a Network; or a Zip archive.

____________________________________________________________
11
Keep It Clean ~ Mike's Friday Tip

No I'm not talking about your online mail.
I'm talking about your computer.

One of the more common problems that cause computer problems is overheating.

This may be caused by fan failure, blocked vent holes, or insufficient air
flow, or a combination of the conditions.

We frequently locate our computer in corners or up against nearby objects.
When a computer is located tight against an adjacent filing cabinet or wall
its cooling vents may be blocked, try to maintain sufficient space for the
air to flow around the computer.

If the computer is placed on the floor under a desk it may have restricted
air flow, it will often suck in small amount of dust and particles which
over time may block the air vents or impede the fan movement.
Pet hair is often a problem.

Periodically, once or twice a year carefully move the cables, now is a good
time to use your digital camera to take a shot of where they all go, or
label them. Even make a sketch of the back of the computer .

Take the computer outside and carefully remove the cover and use a can of
compressed air made for the purpose, to blow out the interior of the
computer and power supply.

Do not vacuum it creates an electrostatic charge which may damage the
components.
Carefully check the fan blades to see of they easily spin, I normally us the
extended tip of the air can.

If the fans do not easily spin they may need replacing.
____________________________________________________________

  HackFix updates, thanks to Christy;
staff@xxxxxxxxxxx
Http://www.hackfix.org
This weeks Virus Pattern Updates (01/13/2005)

All Software listed Alphabetically by Company name as some 
companies manufacture more then one product.


Aladdin Knowledge Systems

Esafe Desktop/Gateway/Enterprise
Last Updated Jan 12/2005
To update your software
Visit: http://www.esafe.com/esafe/downloads/virusig.asp
Or
From the Esafe folder in your Start Menu select Download Updates
~~~~~

AlWil Software

Avast Antivirus
Last Updated Jan 11/2005
To update your software:
Visit: http://www.avast.com/
Or
Right click on the AVAST icon in the system tray, Select iAVS Update, 
AVAST will check for updates and download the appropriate files as needed.
~~~~~

 Authentium Software Systems

Command antivirus
Last Updated Jan 12/2005
To update your software
Visit http://www.authentium.com/support/downloads/index.cfm
~~~~~

Center for Antivirus Technologies (CAT)

Quickheal
Last Updated Jan 13/2005
To update your software
Visit: http://207.230.103.11/public/updates/updates.asp
Or
Open Quickheal select Utility from the top toolbar and liveupdate.  
Follow the onscreen prompts.  
Alternately you can select Liveupdate directly from the 
QuickHeal program menu on the startmenu.
~~~~~

Frisk Software Systems

Fprot
Last Updated Jan 11/2005
To update your software
Visit: http://www.f-prot.com/download/home_user/
~~~~~

Computer Associates

E-Trust
Last updated Jan 13/2005
To update your software
http://www3.ca.com/support/vicdownload/
Or
>From the Respective folder in your Start Menu select Autodownload

For Vet Anti virus
http://www.vet.com.au/html/software/update.html

Be sure to have your Customer ID and your registered email address 
handy for verification.

**Note**

We knew this time would come eventually, that Computer Associates 
would not continue to support/update the older program 
https://www2.my-etrust.com/services/ipe_support??
~~~~~~


GeCad Software

Rav (Reliable AntiVirus)
Last Updated:  Jan 10/2005
To update your software:
Visit: 
http://www.ravantivirus.com/pages/dldupdate.php?type=3DDaily
Or
Open Rav and select Rav Update from the toolbar
~~~~~

Grisoft Inc.

AVG 
Announcing the End of Support for AVG Anti-Virus 6.0 (December 31, 2004)
Read more here:
 http://www.grisoft.com/us/us_avg6_termination.php
(New update details will be available soon)

Last updated Jan 12/2005
To update your software
Visit: http://www.grisoft.com/us/us_index.php
Or 
Open AVG and click Virus Database to check for updates
Or
Open AVG control centre and click Update Manager/update now

**Note:  To help speed up AVG updates you can set your program to 
use an alternate download site.  
Open AVG control centre->update manager->download from server.  
The drop downbox should have listed www.grisoft.com (default)  and 
www.grisoft.cz. (be sure to select "apply" when done to save the changes) 
The default site is most often used so can at times become temporarily 
unavailable.  By using the secondary site (www.grisoft.cz) helps to ease 
the server and makes your update go quicker as most don't use it!
~~~~~

H+Bedv

AntiVir
Last updated Jan 13/2005
To update your software
Visit: http://www.free-av.com/antivirus/allinonen.html
Or
Open AntiVir, from the top toolbar select Tools->
start internet update and follow the on screen prompts.


Vexira 
Last updated Jan 13/2005
To update your software
Visit: http://www.centralcommand.com/updates.html
Or
Open Vexira, from the top toolbar select Tools->
start internet update and follow the on screen prompts.

Vexira Antivirus is marketed by Central Command however it is the same
 program as Antivir with only a different name.
~~~~~

Kaspersky

Kaspersky Anti-Virus (formerly AVP)
Last updated Jan 07/2005 
To update your software
Visit: http://www.kaspersky.com/updates.asp
Or
Open AVP from the top toolbar click Tools-> Update virus definition
Or
From the Kaspersky folder in your Start Menu select AVP updater


*Note*  Avp now has available a cumulative update and a 
daily update with the daily being any important items they 
feel shouldn't wait till the next cumulative update.  Our 
dates here are based on the most recent Major update.

**Note:  Improved update accessiblity.  To ease the update web traffic
Kaspersky labs has additional servers for autoupdating.  The program
defaults to use one server but can be altered to check a variety of 
servers. Select Kaspersky updater, select update via the internet to 
open the drop down box(es) select "location"  Check the box labeled 
"Use alternate locations from the list"  select next and next to update.  
This option should stay selected after the first time.  This helps 
Kaspersky lighten the load for updates and helps you obtain updates 
easier.
~~~~~

Network Associates

Mcafee 
Last updated Jan 12/2005
To update your software 
For Mcafee Visit
http://www.networkassociates.com/us/downloads/updates/superdat.asp
(for Virus and Engine updates)


Drsolomn (Product no longer available for new users however 
updates still available for current users):  Go to the following 
Internet site: http://download.mcafee.com/updates/4x.asp
IMPORTANT: When you get to this site you may notice that it refers 
to VirusScan. This update is not only for VirusScan. It also works 
with Dr.Solomon's. 

Or
Open your respective software virus scan scheduler, double click 
Auto update, click Run Now to do a manual live update, or click 
Schedule to set up a timed live update.
~~~~~

Norman Data Defence

Norman Virus Control
Last updated Jan 11/2005
To update your software
Visit: http://www.norman.com/downloads.shtml#definition_files_updates
Be sure to have your Valid Username and password handy for verification.
Or
>From the Norman folder in your Start Menu select Internet Update

**Note Norman Virus Control web updates are only for version prior to 
5.0.  Norman 5.0 can only be updated via the update in the program itself.

Thunderbyte Anti Virus
Current Version: This product is no longer being supported.
http://www.norman.com/tbav.shtml
~~~~~

Softwin

BitDefender (Previously known as AVX - AntiVirus eXpert as of Nov 06/01)
Last Updated Jan 13/2005 
To update your software
Visit:=
 http://www.bitdefender.com/bd/site/downloads.php?menu_id=3D19&s_id=3D3
Or
Open BitDefender select Protection Options->live upgrade
Or
>From the BitDefender folder in your Start Menu select Bitdefender Live
         
Press Release on the software change 
http://www.bitdefender.com/press/ref1.php
~~~~~

Sophos

Sophos Anti Virus
Last IDE available Jan 13/2005
To obtain the latest IDE files
Visit: http://www.sophos.com/downloads/ide/

**Note:  Sophos does not update as other products do.  They update 
the Engine/software once a month (or so) to include all the previous 
IDE files.  New IDE files are available with new virus threats and must 
be downloaded individually until the next software update is available.  
Our update dates reflect the most recent available IDE file.
~~~~~

Symantec

Nortons AntiVirus
Last updated Jan 13/2005
To update your software
Visit: 
http://www.symantec.com/avcenter/defs.download.html select 
your language -> product from the list
Or
Open Nortons software and click the "live update" button
Or
>From the Nortons folder in your Start Menu select LiveUpdate - 
Norton Antivirus
~~~~~

Trend Micro

PcCillin 
Last updated Jan 13/2005
To update your software
Visit: http://www.antivirus.com/download/pattern.asp
Be sure to have your Registration number handy for verification
Or
Open PcCillin click Update then click Update Now (or Update later 
to Schedule a timed update)
~~~~~~~~~

If there is an Anti Virus program that is Not listed here that
you would like to see added to the weekly updates list Please
feel free to let us know.

Remember Your anti virus software is only as good as the user...
If you don't keep it updated it won't provide you with maximum
protection.

This weekly Update will be sent every Thursday on or after
6pm (eastern) to keep you up to date on virus pattern updates
available. Virus patterns are checked for most recent update
date as of 6pm Thursdays.

~~~~

~ Hackfix Project Staff
staff@xxxxxxxxxxx
Http://www.hackfix.org

3017 St Clair Ave #176
Burlington, Ontario
L7R 3L7
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Antivirus software is a good choice to scan your system for possible viruses, 
however no virus scanner is 100% effective as manufactures cannot keep up with 
the rapid change of viruses that happens daily.
Be sure to update yours regularly.
http://www.hackfix.org/software/antivirus.html
______________________________________________________________________
Please feel free, to offer constructive criticism, as that will help me keep it 
interesting.
I also welcome any submissions about new products, web pages, or articles of 
interest.

All submissions posted in MWN will be given proper credit.
"MikesWhatsNews" believes in giving credit where credit is due but at times 
deadlines and information that is very important to readers we accidentally 
misspost an item.

If you believe something to be miscredited, or you know the author of one of 
the articles which we have posted as 'unknown', please do let us know so we can 
correct the information where applicable.

Many times in a article you may see a click here for more information, or to go 
to a link, these often will not work, as the original information, was taken 
from a page with HTML links. This is when you will want to go to the webpage 
indicated in the article, ++ ,for 'the rest of the story'
***MfM*** indicates that I am adding my own information to a particular    
article.
                         `~*~*~*~*~*~`
Mike ~It's a good day if I learned something new.
You can read a sample of my newsletter on my web page http://www.mwn.ca
My virus pages ~ http://virusinfo.hackfix.org 
mytech@xxxxxxxxxxx
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