Tech News Roundup and a Weekend of PDX Tech Events

A targeted attack exposed sensitive information about the company that runs the popular Twitter service, Microsoft set to open stores to compete with Apple and more news rounds up this week's Tech Expert Topic notes from Newsradio 750 KXL.

Employees at Twitter uses a hosted version of productivity software known as Google Apps. An intruder was able to foil security and obtain access to sensitive data from the company behind the popular social networking service Twitter. This data contained juicy financials, candidate interview records and a reality TV show pitch. The information was then offered to various blogs and news outlets. At least a few took the bait and published the information.

While Twitter is comparing the event this week to having someone "rifle through your underwear drawer" (as in, embarrassing but not exactly revealing), it does serve as a good reminder to change your passwords and use strong passwords.

With one exception, users of the Twitter service itself are not affected. Still, it wouldn't hurt to change your Twitter password anyway. It's just good practice.

Microsoft and Apple
Microsoft this week revealed just a tad more about the retail locations it plans to open. Apple's slice of the computer market dips from 4th place this past winder down to 5th place. Finally, with new more attractive prices on many systems including the popular Macbook line, Apple is calling foul on Microsoft's Laptop Hunter TV spots.

This Week In Local Tech Events...

• Join me for an action-packed series of rapid-fire talks as Ignite Portland 6 takes place --free, no ticket required-- at the Baghdad Theatre.
  
• Tomorrow it's Beer & Blog Happy Hour from 4-6pm, then head down to Pioneer Courthouse Square for KGW's Live at 7 where you can watch the show live (no doubt we'll be outside on the bricks!) and I'll stick around afterwards.
  
• Then on Saturday, Join me at a special "End Bloglessness 2" event (Downtown from 12p-5p, free) if you've always wanted to start a blog... experts (i.e. those that know FAR more than I do) will be on hand to answer questions, get you set up and tech you best practices. (While you're at it, add WordCamp/PDX to your calendar NOW.)

For more on this story, listen to my report (MP3), as heard on Newsradio 750 KXL during Portland's Morning News 16 Jul 2009.