"US Government advisor Richard Clarke says software companies should distribute patches that automatically update customers' computers." http://www.ananova.com/news/story/sm_466189.html?menu= Experts reject call for automated virus protection Anti-virus experts have rejected a US government call for automated software patches to combat computer viruses. Sophos says calls for software vendors to do more are out of touch with typical users' requirements. They point out that many customers would reject anything that undermines their sovereignty over their computer systems. US Government advisor Richard Clarke says software companies should distribute patches that automatically update customers' computers. But Sophos says the idea betrays a lack of understanding of how anti-virus software already operates. "Most anti-virus vendors give their customers the option of automating updates, but some businesses are reticent about outsourcing crucial security measures," explained senior technology consultant Graham Cluley. "For peace of mind they'd rather implement their own updates to ensure they work properly for their environment." Mr Clarke's comments came amidst a fresh virus outbreak. Goner is an email-disseminating worm that purports to be a screensaver. Story filed: 17:35 Wednesday 5th December 2001