 Ask the Professor
Cecile Benda  vid
Professor of Computer Science - California State University Northridge and Director of New Business Development for CEO Computers.
Q. Do I need to worry about the Shellshock Bash Bug if I don't own an Apple/Mac computer?
A. You might have read in our Shellshock article that the security flaw exists in both Mac and Linux operating systems. Linux is used in everything from cars to cameras. This bug could also affect Android, Windows and IBM machines - and about half of all websites. Actually, every internet-enabled device in a person's home - even something as innocuous as a smart light bulb - is vulnerable to a hacker's access. The danger with this is that once a hacker does gain access to an internet-connected device, it can jump onto others. That includes smart locks that open front doors. It is said that the impact could be very severe, and that it is not overstating it to say it is a more serious bug than Heartbleed. The primary way it is going to be exploited is through the web. A Hacker can use the bug to put malicious things on the website or to steal information, like banking details. Anyone using any of the devices will need to include a "patch" update to the software as soon as it is released.
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Just for Fun
 Easy Logic Puzzle
Choose the correct letter for each clue in the following rhyme.
When put in order, the five letters will spell an answer to the riddle.
- My first is in grass but not in space.
- My second in race but not in place.
- My third in ever and also in here.
- My fourth in see and also in hear.
- My last in no is always found.
- My whole a color all around.
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The Shellshock Bug
Apple at risk of infection from Shellshock or 'Bash' Bug
And you thought only PC's were vulnerable! A major security flaw that could affect Apple's (AAPL) Mac and Linux operating systems has been discovered, with security experts claiming it to be more dangerous than the recent Heartbleed bug.
The Shellshock bug creates a vulnerability in "Bash" - a software that controls the command prompt on many computers running the Unix operating system. The command prompt is integral to the running of computers and is behind simple tasks such as opening up an application. The Shellshock bug could therefore allow hackers to access and control a system remotely.
And you thought only PC's were vulnerable!
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The Bash Bug vs Heartbleed
How does the Bash Bug compare with Heartbleed?
- Unlike Heartbleed, which only affected a specific version of Open SSL, the Bash bug has been around for a long time. 'That means there are lots of old devices on the network vulnerable to this bug,' said Robert Graham, of security firm Errata.
- 'The number of systems needing to be patched, but that won't be, is much larger than Heartbleed.'
- The Heartbleed bug allowed hackers to spy on millions of computers all over the world. Bash, however, allows hackers to read information, edit, delete or copy files, and run programs. All of this can take place without the user knowing.
- Unlike Heartbleed, which forced users to change their passwords, Bash doesn't have an easy fix. It will largely be up to system administrators and software companies to issue patches.
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The Latest Technology
CES2014: The Parrot Jumping Sumo is the winner of an Innovation Award in Gaming Hardware & Accessories!
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Parrot MiniDrones Jumping Sumo & Rolling Spider - Connected Toys!
This is worth checking out!
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Piloted via Wi-Fi 2.4 or 5GHz with a Smartphone or a tablet, Parrot Jumping Sumo is a new genre of connected robot. Half robot, half insect, it is equipped with a gyroscope and an accelerometer, which provides fool-proof agility and intuitive piloting. It can roll, turn 90 degrees with speed and astonishing precision - meaning no obstacle is too challenging - and also perform spectacular jumps (up to 80 cm) always landing on its "wheels"! With an embedded camera, its acrobatic and fast-paced movements are streamed onto the screen of the controlling Smartphone or tablet.
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Smart Phone Security
Loo  kout - Security App for iOS, Android Phones & Kindle devices
Our smart phones are probably one of the most heavily used and relied upon pieces of equipment that we own. Keeping them safe should be of major concern to us, especially given how frequently mobile devices are targeted by unwanted intruders and thieves nowadays. Let's face it: our phones are our lifelines! Most of us have a lot of valuable data that is stored on them. Not only do we not want all our personal information - pictures, emails, text messages, and contacts - getting into the wrong hands, we don't want the expense of having to replace the phone and re-enter all that data.
That's where apps like Lookout come in handy. (Please note: more security apps will be reviewed in the next issue.)
Even those of us with iPhones who have already activated the Find My IPhone feature could benefit from an app like Lookout, especially with all the other features offered.
Click here for all the details.
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Every now and then, we come across businesses that deserve recommendation. Yuletide Greetings is one such company.
If you're looking for holiday cards and calendars that are custom printed with your company name or logo - and you want both quality and fair prices - check out www.yuletidegreetings.com. We have dealt with the owner, Allison Branan, for many years and would highly recommend her and her website. She offers the kind of personal service that is often lacking today. Tell her CEO recommended you. If you know of a business that has offered exceptional service or product, please let us know. We will be happy to share it with our readers.
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