Computer and internet briefs

Jan 29, 2012, 3:06 GMT

Closing security gaps in VLC media player

Berlin (dpa) - The current 1.1.11 version of the VLC media player has been found to have security gaps through which hackers can gain access to computers. The German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) recommends users of the widespread software to protect their computers by deleting all files from the installation directory beginning with 'libty_plugin.' In addition, the new 1.1.13 version of the programme should be installed as soon as it is available. The developers are aiming to close this security gap with the update.

Connect Four for Androids

Berlin (dpa) - The classic board game Connect Four is now available as a free app for Android smartphones. The principle for the Android version has not changed as players try to connect four chips horizontally, vertically or diagonally before their opponents. The game can be played against the computer or another player with an Android smartphone. To keep games against the computer from becoming boring, four difficulty levels have been included. One minor problem is that advertisements do pop up.

Update Windows: Microsoft closes eight security gaps

Berlin (dpa) - As part of their monthly Patchday, Microsoft has introduced seven security updates that close eight gaps. Users who have activated automatic updates in Windows need not do anything. For all others, the update function in Windows' security centre should be activated or the patches should be installed from www.windowsupdate.com, the German Federal Office for Information Security (BSI) recommends. Windows 7 as well as Vista and XP are affected by the security gaps.

Compose Windows ringtones

Berlin (dpa) - The update of Windows Phone 7.5 (Mango) allows users to produce their own ringtones for the mobile operating system. But there are some requirements. The sound must be in either the WMA or MP3 format, cannot be DRM copy protected, must be smaller than 1 MB and cannot be longer than 39 seconds. Those who want to use part of a song only have to cut out the desired portion of the song with a sound editor such as Audacity.