Spammers abuse Sender ID

Spammers are looking to embrace anti-spam tool Sender ID in order to make their messages appear more legitimate.

According to Tech Web, companies need to publish a list of authorised e-mail servers for the domains they control in order to comply with Sender ID. That list is used by those receiving e-mail to make sure the purported server of origin matches the one listed in the message header.

Because spammers may forge header information to disguise the origin of their messages, their spam would fail this test.

But by adopting the Sender Policy Framework (SPF), a recent addition to Microsoft`s Sender ID proposal, spammers not engaged in phishing or other fraud may choose to accurately identify their mail servers, and thus avoid filtering based on Sender ID compliance.

Based on a sample of 400 000 spam messages, MX Logic found that 16% of spammers have already chosen to publish SPF records.

Microsoft is working on ways to block Apple iPod users from plugging into networks, The Inquirer reports.

The software giant claims that companies are worried that devices such as the iPod could be used to steal data or unleash attacks on business networks.

The company is developing a new system where people can use devices that help them in their work - such as a smart phone full of professional contacts - but not storage devices that could be used to quickly steal data. The technology will be included in Shorthorn, which is set to appear in 2006.

According to The Inquirer, there is an early version of this technology in SP2, which performs a similar task.

Cisco Systems has agreed to acquire NetSolve, a provider of remote network and IT infrastructure management services for businesses.

According to ConvergeDigest, NetSolve`s core services include the monitoring and management of IP communications networks, security software and devices, WANs and LANs. In addition, NetSolve offers a secure, Web-based portal to give customers and partners real-time visibility of their IT infrastructure.

The companies said NetSolve`s services would allow Cisco and its channel partners to offer its customers real-time monitoring of Cisco products and help ensure continuous, secure operation of advanced IP services such as IP telephony and security. Cisco plans to offer these services to its partners via a resale model, a wholesale application service provider model, or via its Advanced Technology Partner programme.

Cisco will pay $11 for outstanding shares of the publicly traded company, meaning the deal is worth approximately $128 million (R832 million).