Viral Videos That Really Are Viral 157
davidwr writes to mention a BBC article looking at booby-trapped Windows codecs. While some codecs required for online videos actually let you watch your content, others are just excuses to infect your system with spyware or adware. As davidwr says: "Now virtual sex can make your computer sick." From the article: "Mr Robinson said many security firms were now logging instances in which spyware and adware firms are turning out software bundles that claim to roll together many popular codecs or just have the one needed to play a particular clip. Some of the codecs do help to play clips, but others are disguised as a variety of nuisance or malicious programs. Some rogue codecs plague users with pop-up adverts, while others invisibly install keyloggers that try to grab confidential data. "
Re:serves yah right (Score:4, Insightful)
But wait, if there's porn involved...
Re:One way to know if code is safe to run (Score:3, Insightful)
Some of us have a life (Score:3, Insightful)
That being said the primary machine at home for gaming/surfing is a windows box. Between me, my wife and my kids I don't think I've had to reformat it since it was built.
Read the Source code? Are you serious? (Score:3, Insightful)
Re:One way to know if code is safe to run (Score:4, Insightful)
But do you only eat cake baked in your own kitchen? Would you give up a piece of cake that everyone is raving about because the recipe is a secret? What if the baker had a solid reputation and thousands of satisfied customers?
I'm not sure why someone would have higher standards for what they run on their stupid computer than for what they allow into their body.
Re:One way to know if code is safe to run (Score:4, Insightful)
First things first, it is usually less of THEM wanting something run on your computer and more likely YOU wanting to run it. If it's freeware that scenario is lots more likely since they don't make money for every installation, etc. so they couldn't care less.
Next, you don't have a "right", you have a desire. If they publish the source code then you have the right to view it, otherwise you're SOL. You're likely not a king or otherwise powerful enough person to get such things done so put your words in some perspective.