PCWorld: “Up to half of U.S. broadband users are leaving themselves wide open to attack by Internet thieves and hackers.

Why? Because subscribers to “always on” Net connections aren’t using any protection–like a firewall or antivirus software–to keep the black hats from gaining access to their PCs.”

Wired: “Robots are fine for diffusing bombs and exploring the surface of Mars. But they’re not so good at really important things such as making small talk, sipping wine, and flirting. Enter the Tele-Actor, who debuts at the Webby Awards.”

Patrick Mullen writes: “The Duke of URL has just posted its review of
EnGarde Secure Linux 1.0.1. EnGarde Secure Linux is a unique brand of Linux with a focus on
security, e-commerce, and servers. The review covers installation,
its interface, and more.”

highlander writes: “A Web server works on the client/server principle and provides a specific service of giving out Web pages to clients called Web browsers. Read on to know the process involved after the URL is keyed into the Web browser and also how to configure Apache for Linux and Netscape FastTrack for NetWare.”

Standard: “Japanese electronics conglomerate Toshiba Corp unveiled on Monday its first personal digital assistant (PDA), due for launch in Japan next month and in the United States this autumn and aimed at high-end corporate users.”

PRNewswire: “Sun Microsystems, Inc. (Nasdaq: SUNW) today announced the immediate
availability of version 1.3 beta 2 of the Java(TM) 2 Platform, Enterprise
Edition (J2EE(TM)).”

Wired: “Hackers, wannabes and consultants converge on Defcon — the “annual underground party for hackers.” But some find the party a bit too bureaucratic for their tastes.”

Slashdot:: “Tech Law Journal sent out an update on Congressional Hearings regarding the future of the WHOIS database. The update includes links to statements made by both Representatives and witnesses at the hearing. Some quotable quotes are below.”

LinuxSecurity: “This week, perhaps the most interesting articles include “Building an In-Depth Defense,” “TCP session hijacking: A primer,” and “Using PHP Securely.” Also this week, if you are using Snort, you may want to read the following: “Survey of Log Analysis Tools for Snort,” and the “Updated Snort FAQ.”

highlander writes: “Are you tired of your boxy-looking computer? Would you rather work on one that’s aesthetically designed, has all the conveniences you need, and gives good performance? Read on…”