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Apache (and other web servers) have some kind of DOS-able flaw. IIS does not have this flaw. Do "all computers" suffer from the problem? No - only Apache and other open source web servers. An example of the "when MSFT software has a problem, all computers are at risk" FUD, only in reverse.
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When IE or IIS have a DOS-able flaw, then suddenly the name of the software vendor disappears from articles - "all computers" are at risk. But luckily, Microsoft's very altruistic Software Update will fix the problem next Patch Tuesday. Gosh, MSFT saved all our bacon again.
But if some non-MSFT product has a problem (Apache, Linux, BIND, etc etc) then the vendor of the software gets emblazoned on the headline, and the article carefully and prominently notes that MSFT products are not similarly vulnerable.
This is a really good form of FUD: MSFT Minions only have to shade a news article in one direction or the other: they don't have to fudge facts, put paper down the memory hole, or count on "everybody knows" common knowledge. They can use straight facts, with the emphasis put on the failed software and its vendor. They can also emphasize that ordinary folks can Stay Calm, as Windows Is Not Affected, Like Always. Full Story |
Text quite similar to the Slashdot article, albeit without the "MSFT products are not effected" phrases. Is this a case of mighty El Reg just slightly re-working a press release into an on-line article? I'd hate to think that of them, as they are an ancient and venerable site, having sent out a regular email newsletter prior to invention of http://WWW.
Perhaps the shilling starts with the press release text. The contextualizing of the vulnerability might be more important than anybody ever believed.