Critical bug infests Windows

Microsoft has promised to patch a serious flaw in newer versions of its Windows operating system after hackers released exploit code that allows them to take complete control of the underlying machines, reports The Register.

The flaw, which affects various versions of Windows Vista, 2008, and the release candidate version of Windows 7, resides in the implementation of a network file sharing technology known as SMB, or server message block.

The bug, which fails to adequately parse network negotiation requests, was previously believed only to generate a debilitating blue screen of death, but on Tuesday, Microsoft confirmed in some cases it could also be used to remotely execute malicious code on vulnerable machines.

Microsoft has started a campaign to help 500 000 people in the UK into the workforce by 2012, says Computing.co.uk.

The firm will work with non-government organisations and local authorities to set up a new national apprenticeship scheme, targeted skills and employability training, and a job matching service.

Microsoft UK MD Gordon Frazer said the firm has taken a realistic approach to the plan.

The publisher of a flight simulator site targeted by a hacker in May says it has presented a file of evidence to UK police identifying the perpetrator, reports the BBC.

Avsim said it had "incontrovertible evidence" about the hacker's identity.

The attack wiped data held on two servers and "effectively destroyed" the site, which is still being rebuilt.

A survey has suggested that over two million people in Europe now have fibre broadband direct to their home, says the BBC.

The latest figures on superfast broadband delivered by fibre to the home shows 18% growth over the last survey compiled in late 2008.

The continued growth suggests the global economic downturn has not hit plans to build a fibre infrastructure.