March 9, 2004

Microsoft Issues Three Security Patches Information Week - In its newest monthly round of patches, Microsoft Tuesday warned users of three vulnerabilities in a trio of its top products: Windows, Outlook, and its instant messaging client, Messenger. 10:19:26 PM

In Europe music firms might come knocking if you are swapping BBC - The final vote on the EU Intellectual Property Rights Enforcement Directive took place in the European Parliament on 9 March. The directive was passed by 330 votes to 151. The law was drawn up to target professional pirates, criminals and counterfeiters who make copies of goods such as football shirts or CDs. During the debates, the directive was widened to cover any infringement of intellectual property. The directive allows companies to raid homes, seize property and ask courts to freeze bank accounts to protect trademarks or intellectual property they believe are being abused or stolen. 2:08:09 PM

Eric Rasmusen: Amidst all the comment on the Martha Stewart case, I think the most important point has been missed: the law under which she was convicted is a bad law. I don't mean the securities laws--- that malicious and silly charge was kicked out by the judge. Essentially, what she was found guilty of was lying to policemen. I don't think that should be a crime-- and certainly not with a five-year sentence. The statute in question, 18 USC 1001, the "False Statements Act"  12:54:58 PM