Google runs an URL shortening service called goo.gl. It also runs an RSS feed service, technology purchased with FeedBurner. Both of these services are widely used on the web.
Over the weekend, goo.gl started blocking all URLs generated by FeedBurner. That meant all links used in FeedBurner feeds suddenly started showing scary-looking alerts instead of linked content.
Given Google’s history of creating useful services, waiting until they’re widely-used, then killing them off, you’d be excused for assuming that this is just the latest installment of the ‘Google rug pull‘. But according to Google, the problem was simply the result a mistake. Regardless, the cause was identified and rectified within a few days, but not before some users (including the technology blog Techdirt) switched to competing services.
Two serious security vulnerabilities in WordPress 4.6 are fixed in the latest version, 4.6.1. Several other minor issues are also addressed. See the release notes for additional details.
WordPress sites that are configured to install minor updates automatically should be auto-upgraded to version 4.6.1 in the next few days, but anyone who manages a WordPress site should immediately verify this, and install the update manually if it’s not already running 4.6.1.
Minor bug fixes and stability improvements feature in the latest version of Opera, 39.0.2256.71. The full change log doesn’t list any security fixes, so this is not an urgent update unless you’re experiencing stability issues. For most users, Opera will update itself automatically.
Rants and musings on topics of interest. Sometimes about Windows, Linux, security and cool software.
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