Sober still spreading

Netxactics, local distributor of Sophos anti-virus and anti-spam software, says reports from England and Germany of the Windows worm W32/Sober-A have been steadily increasing since its discovery on Monday. The worm spreads via e-mails claiming to contain security software updates.

The worm has duped some computer users with its ability to check the domain of the recipient`s e-mail address and change the text language accordingly.

If an infected e-mail attachment is opened, the Sober worm starts to spread by collecting e-mail addresses found on the infected user`s computer and sending itself to each of them.

CNET News reports that Apple Computer`s latest version of its Mac OS X operating system, Panther, patches security flaws that affect previous versions of the operating system.

However, there is no indication that patches will be released for the earlier versions, leaving users wondering whether they will be forced to pay $129 for the latest operating system update to ensure security.

Online auctioneer eBay has told financial analysts it can wring much more growth from its oldest and largest market in the US by broadening its Web marketplace and offering better services for users. eBay executives said the company can maintain the growth that has made it the number one e-commerce site and 11th-biggest retailer in the US and has made its shares red-hot.

The California-based company said the total value of goods sold via eBay Motors alone is expected to hit $4.2 billion this year, compared with $2.8 billion last year.

IDG News reports that the dual band chip is making its way into Centrino notebooks, with Intel`s announcement that after several delays, its Pro/Wireless 2100A chip is now shipping to notebook manufacturers.

The new chip allows notebook users to connect to 802.11a networks, which operate at a higher frequency than the more popular 802.11b networks that Intel`s Centrino technology currently supports.