Zombie network explosion

Figures from the Shadowserver Foundation show the number of compromised zombie PCs in botnet networks has quadrupled over the last three months, reports The Register.

Shadowserver tracks botnet activity and the number of command and control servers. It uses a variety of metrics to slice and dice its figures based in part on the entropy of botnet infections.

The clear trend within these figures is upwards, with a rise in botnet numbers from 100 000 to 400 000 (if 30-day entropy is factored into equations), or from 20 000 to 60 000 (for five-day entropy).

A debate taking place in the European Commission promises to reform the telecommunications environment, in particular to improve the services and security provisions available to end-users, says Computing.co.uk.

As part of its telecoms reform activities, the EC said today it was seeking to tackle seven issues, ranging from providing broadband for all, to improving data protection and security for European citizens.

The commission is also seeking to reform the management of radio spectrums in its member states.

Lawyers for a Briton accused of hacking into secret military and Nasa computers are asking the home secretary to ensure he is not jailed in the US, says The BBC.

Glasgow-born Gary McKinnon, 42, who last month lost his appeal against extradition, could face life in jail if convicted of accessing 97 computers.

His lawyer, Karen Todner, said his human rights would be breached if he did not return to the UK after a trial.