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I tried out Google Desktop Search today and I decided to take a deeper look at how it works and how it integrates into your daily experiences.  This information all comes from reverse-engineering and file/registry observation.  None of it is guaranteed to be correct.

From looking at some of the PDB file references, I think the internal name of this Google search engine is “Total Recall”.  This fits with the replacement string returned from Google (“”) and the port number registry key “trs_port”.

The search utility consists of three main applications and a number of “information provider” plugins.  The main applications are:

Has anyone noticed that Microsoft is willing to admit to that “a bug in ASP.NET canonicalization exists”, but refuses to divulge any more information?  Considering that the information is easily available and being distributed by bloggers between themselves, you should have all of the information at your fingertips to protect yourself.

Basically, the bug involves subverting Windows or Forms authentication by modifying your URL slightly.  By replacing traditional URL slashes with backslashes, you can fool ASP.NET into serving files that should be protected.

Neat Image is a tool for automatically reducing digital camera noise.  I tried it out last night on a few photos - it manages to clear up a lot of random noise you see when zooming in on most digital pictures.  Best of all - it’s free for personal use!

I managed to get results that were pretty good, but not as striking as their examples.  I suppose the developers of the tool would understand how to get the most out of it.  You’ll notice a subtle difference in the shots that you’ve processed with the tool. 

It’s a bit of extra work for each shot, but I think it pays off to clean up the pictures you really like.

After reading the full-disclosure list for more ASP.NET vulnerability information, I came across a report of spyware installing on fully-patched XP SP2 IE instances.

The thread is here.  Basically, a site is forcing a CAB file down user’s throats without any sort notification.  If you want to try it out in VMWare or some other safe environment, jump to the URL http://www.themexp.org/about_wrap.php.

I can’t repeat it enough: Install Firefox today.

GrokLaw is just reporting that Microsoft’s FAT Patent has been rejected.  This is good news!  Check out the story on GrokLaw, or read the good bits here: