Microsoft Update to Target Spyware

Microsoft's planned update for a Windows XP will make at least five changes to thwart the inadvertent installation of spyware. Roughly half of the world's computers run Windows XP. The update will include a pop-up blocker, a reduction in the... continue reading »

VNU Launches Own Viral Spot

Trade publisher VNU launched its own viral ad campaign, called "The man who thought he knew everything..." The 30-second spot promotes its Computeract!ve book, a British information technology magazine. The spot appears to have been made with a very low... continue reading »

Gays More Susceptible to Online Ads

Gays are more affected by online advertising, according to a new Harris Interactive study. Gays are more likely to use gay-specific sites for travel reservations and about two and half times more likely to access political news online. Gays appear... continue reading »

Eyewonder Bows 'VideoStitial'

Eyewonder launched a new between-page TV commercial ad format it calls the VideoStitial. The form debuted on BusinessWeek Online and Forbes.com in ads designed by Euro RSCG 4D. Previously, Eyewonder provided pop-up ads, but now the company is gunning for... continue reading »

Bush Breaks Big Online Campaign

The campaign to re-elect President George W. Bush broke its first online efforts, scattering a large budget across more than 50 sites, including Yahoo, MSN, Weather.com and Parents.com. The ads use Laura Bush to advocate to women and couples for... continue reading »

Coke Launches GPS Can Promotion

This Summer, Coke will randomly place 120 GPS- and cell phone-equipped Coke cans throughout their North American distribution. Called the "Unexpected Summer," the sweepstakes hopes to build sales for the ailing Classic line. Consumers who find one of the 120... continue reading »

Judges Starting to Use Google Instead of Lexis

CNET documented several cases where judges used Google searches as support for decisions. Judges often must rule on topics about which they know nothing, and it seems that they are admitting to turning to web search engines to brush up... continue reading »

Google to Allow Banner Ads

While not allowing them on its flagship Google site, the search giant is allowing banner ads into its AdSense advertising network on those publishing sites that choose to allow them to display. Four of the most popular Interactive Advertising Bureau... continue reading »