Worm attacks Linux Web service holes

A new worm has surfaced that attacks Linux systems via Web server-related services, reports EWeek. The worm, called Linux Plupii/Lupper or luppi, is described as a blended threat.

It attempts to attack through three vulnerabilities - the XML-RPC for PHP Remote Code Injection vulnerability, the AWStats Rawlog Plugin Logfile Parameter Input Validation vulnerability and the Darryl Burgdorf Webhints Remote Command Execution vulnerability.

When Plupii is successful in infecting a server, it then sends a notification message to an attacker at a remote IP address via UDP port 7222 or 7111. It then opens a back door, allowing an attacker to gain unauthorised access to the compromised system.

Growing numbers of PC users are converting to Macintosh computers, reports MacNewsWorld.

Charles Wolf, an analyst at Needham & Co, is quoted as saying that more than one million Windows users bought Mac computers for the first time this year. This is double the estimate of a year ago.

The growing popularity of Mac computers is attributed in part to the success of the Apple iPod.

IBM has released a set of software tools intended to spur interest in its upcoming Cell microprocessor, reports Reuters.

The new microprocessor is key to the computing giant`s return to profitable chipmaking. IBM jointly developed Cell with Sony and Toshiba, for use in Sony`s PlayStation 3 video game console due out next year.

IBM said the new development kits will also help programmers write software for the chip in areas such as medical imagery, aerospace and digital television.