Links for August 12th 2009

Not a good day to start with. Came down with some kind of major flu, feel feverish, joints ache, and nose running worse than Niagara falls. Yeah, I know, I'm a guy, and as soon as something, however minor, hits, I'm (all guys) become helpless little puppies squeling for mercy and enter the state of not being capable of anything...

And this can never be emphasized enough. Passwords are not for fun (only). Even if everyone in security gives talks and lessons, and everyone else nods "Yes, we understand", still, breaches are very common due to weak passwords. Just follow the guidelines.
  • PCI-DSS: A new version, 1.2.1, has been released. No spectacular changes made. Mostly clarifications, redundancy removals and spelling corrections. If you want to be up-to-date, the documents can be downloaded here: PCI-DSS, PA-DSS and PA-DSS Program Guide.
  • PCI-DSS: Small merchants have a higher awareness of PCI-DSS today, compared to a year ago, according to this study Not surprisingly businesses that have been involved in some kind of breach are more aware than others, who in many cases haven't heard of the regulations.
  • Security: So you thought the software was after you? Think again. Social Zombies Out For Your Network, Not Brains - good reading about social networking.
  • Security: I wrote about DDoS the other day and tried to explain that we just have to face the facts. Elinor Mills at CNet has a nice Q&A out explaining the aspects of DDoS.
  • Patch: The Monthly Microsoft Patch Bundle has Microsoft scared too. "Prepare for the next 30 days", they say. And some more info on the patches.
  • Hacks: Wordpress admins are busy these days, getting their software updated. Remote attacks that may reset your admin password usually awakes admins from their half-awake state behind your favorite WoW screen.

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